Best Campgrounds near Ozark, IL
Camping in the Shawnee National Forest surrounds Ozark, Illinois with a mix of developed campgrounds and dispersed camping areas. Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs offers tent and RV sites with fire rings and picnic tables, while Jackson Falls provides free dispersed camping with more primitive conditions. The region includes both established campgrounds with electrical hookups and water access, such as Lake Glendale Recreation Area, and more remote camping options like Garden of the Gods Recreation Area. Most campgrounds in southern Illinois are situated within forested areas, providing shade and access to hiking trails.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the Shawnee National Forest region. Most developed campgrounds like Redbud operate from March 15 to December 15, while others such as Shawnee Forest Campground remain open year-round. Summer brings higher visitation, particularly at water-adjacent sites like Lake Glendale. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures ideal for hiking the numerous trails connecting camping areas. Cell service is limited or non-existent in many camping areas, particularly in the more remote sections of the forest. A camper noted, "0 cell signal, which is just what we look for while on vacation."
The Shawnee National Forest camping experience centers around natural features including sandstone formations, lakes, and hiking trails. Garden of the Gods receives consistently high ratings for its dramatic rock formations and scenic views. Lake Glendale Recreation Area provides water-based recreation with boat access and swimming opportunities. Several visitors highlighted the privacy of campsites despite their proximity to one another. A recent review described Oak Point at Lake Glendale as "tucked into the tall pines of the Shawnee national forest" with "sites that back right up to Lake Glendale." Campers seeking solitude might prefer weekday visits, as many campgrounds fill on weekends, especially during summer months. Most camping areas provide access to hiking trails directly from the campground, allowing visitors to explore the unique geology of southern Illinois without driving to separate trailheads.
