Cabin camping near Olive Branch, Illinois offers rustic lodging options surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest. The region sits in the Illinois Ozarks with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,000 feet, creating varied terrain for hiking and exploration. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing while summer highs often reach 90°F with high humidity, affecting cabin comfort and activity planning.
What to do
Equestrian trails: Giant City State Park provides 25 dedicated equestrian campsites separate from the regular camping areas. According to Michael M., "There are fantastic hiking trails and equestrian trails here and you would think you are in the mountains here. The geology is much like the Missouri area near the other bank of the Mississippi river."
Rock climbing: Giant City State Park Campground attracts climbers to its unique rock formations. Josh M. notes, "For climbers, there is a ton of nearby trad and sport climbing. The main wall stays wet for a while so if it has recently rained you may need to find somewhere else."
Fishing opportunities: Crab Orchard Lake provides excellent fishing access from cabin areas. "Fishing was good (especially catfish and crappie)," reports Tracie E., who also mentioned visiting nearby Carbondale and Alto Pass where "wineries all closed on Tuesday; locals told us they are open more hours during summer."
Water activities: Several cabin locations offer lake access for swimming and boating. Sunshine Z. mentions that Giant City "has a nice trail across from the primitive camping site which also has a pond for fishing as well."
What campers like
Affordable lakeside sites: Campers appreciate budget-friendly cabin options with water views. TJ G. says about Crab Orchard Lake, "Cheap campground that is clean and quiet. The back in site we had overlooked the lake. For the price, you can't beat the view."
Spacious sites: Many campers value the room between cabin areas. Never Sitting S. commented that Crab Orchard offers "very spacious and lots of trees. First come first serve, and the park was full most of the time we were here."
Winter stargazing: Clear winter skies offer exceptional stargazing from cabin locations. Josh M. noted that even during winter at Giant City State Park, "the sites were quite clear and clean and it provided great access to nearby trails and hiking. Due to the somewhat rural location you could not beat the view of the stars at night."
Historic structures: The region contains several historic buildings and structures. Shana D. recommends, "While you are here, check out the Lodge for dinner one night and climb to the top of the water tower observation deck for some amazing views!"
What you should know
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some cabin locations. Jamey W. says about Perryville RV Resort, "The highway is also extremely close and can be heard at all times. All in all it's a nice place. We would definitely stop here again if we're ever around. But we wouldn't stay long."
Seasonal availability: Local campers often book cabins for extended stays during peak times. Never Sitting S. notes that at Crab Orchard Lake, "Most you can spend here is 14 days, which lots of locals do."
Rule enforcement varies: Some locations have issues with noise rules. Jamey W. reported, "Someone was playing loud music till at least 1130pm when we went to bed. We also witnessed dogs being left outside unattended and barking for 20 minutes straight starting at 735am."
Ticks and poison ivy: Cabins in wooded areas require preparation for common pests. Amy & Stu B. warn about Dixon Springs State Park, "Lots of ticks (pulled some off every day) and fireflies."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several cabin areas include playground facilities. Chris G. notes about Perryville RV Resort, "Great place to go. Lots of shade and always clean. Has a nice pool."
Kid-friendly attractions: Look for cabins with adjacent recreational areas. Never Sitting S. observed that Perryville has a "Nice park for kids, hiking trail and jump pad (trampoline)."
Summer pool access: Lake Murphysboro State Park offers group cabin areas ideal for family gatherings. Joel R. says, "The group camping area was very nice. It is a large, separate area. We had the whole area to ourselves each time we took the scouts. There were pit toilets, but the guys didn't care. Also lots of free fire wood, hiking, fishing and canoeing!"
Educational opportunities: Some locations offer nature programming. James M. from Touch of Nature Education Center reports, "Camp Amenities include: lodges, cabins, shelters, parking, fire pits/fireplaces all with wood supplied, amphitheaters, fishing along Little Grassy Lake, trails, swing set."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some cabin and RV areas have uneven terrain. Jessica R. notes about Dixon Springs, "At site 6 it goes downhill so it is difficult to get your camper level."
Water access limitations: Several locations require filling tanks before setting up. Joel R. says about Lake Murphysboro, "Electric only, no water or sewer hookups. Pit toilets. Nice and clean."
Parking regulations: Some cabin areas restrict vehicle placement. Marta S. explains, "Finally, cars aren't allowed next to the campsite. We initially parked next to it and the superintendent asked us to move it to the parking lot. Makes it a hassle and is a bit of a bummer, but it was fine."
Road navigation: Access roads to some cabin areas can be tight. Jamie E. cautions about Lake Murphysboro, "the area is very hilly and narrow to drive through."
