Best Campgrounds near Olney, IL
Multiple campgrounds surround Olney, Illinois, offering varied camping experiences across southern Illinois and western Indiana. Red Hills State Park, Sam Parr State Fish and Wildlife Area, and Charley Brown City Park provide established camping areas with tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. Several sites feature lakeside settings, including Camp Lakewood with 62 developed sites approximately 25 miles northwest of Olney. Spring Creek Campground in Montrose offers a mix of RV, tent, and cabin options in a quieter rural setting.
Campground accessibility remains consistent year-round at several locations, though amenities vary seasonally. "Most of the sites are large and a good distance from the next one. Shower house is alright. The store/restaurant has been closed for a year or two now because of the Illinois budget," noted one visitor about Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area. Sites with electric hookups are common throughout the region, with most campgrounds maintaining water access and basic toilet facilities. Many campgrounds close shower facilities during winter months, typically November through April. Weather conditions can affect trail accessibility, particularly after rainfall when hiking paths become difficult to navigate.
Several visitors highlight the peaceful atmosphere at campgrounds like Spring Creek, where one camper appreciated being "far enough away from the interstate you don't hear the traffic. No nearby trains either." Water features represent a significant attraction, with fishing opportunities available at multiple locations. Campers frequently mention site spacing and privacy as notable features, particularly at Fox Ridge State Park where "all sites were spacious and shaded" and "each site is isolated by trees and growth." Public campgrounds like Red Hills State Park and Sam Parr offer more structured experiences with designated facilities, while smaller community parks like Oblong Park and Lake provide convenient access points for travelers passing through the region. RV-specific amenities such as sanitary dump stations and electric hookups are widely available across most established campgrounds.
