Best Camping near Ozark, IL

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Ozark, IL is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Ozark camping trip.

Best Camping Sites Near Ozark, IL (118)

    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground

    1. Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground

    52 Reviews
    208 Photos
    490 Saves
    Karbers Ridge, Illinois

    One of the most photographed locations in the state, Garden of the Gods' scenic beauty is extraordinary. In the recreation area you can hike, camp, nature watch or picnic.

    The Observation Trail features unique sandstone rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding Garden of the God Wilderness. Interpretive signs explain the geological history. The 1/4-mile trail is made of natural sandstone and takes about an hour to walk. It contains short, steep grades and steps; benches are located along the trail and as a whole the trail is not tiring. Caution should be used due to the high cliffs in the area.

    Overnight parking allowed at Backpacker's Parking Lot only (Indian Point Trailhead). Pets are allowed only on a leash. Picnic areas and Observation Trail are open 6am-10pm. Use trash receptacles where available. Pack It In, Pack It Out while on trails. Camp only at designated sites in the campground. Disposable food and beverage containers are not permitted on the Observation Trail. Stay on the designated trail and leave the beauty of the rocks and plants for others to enjoy.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs

    2. Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs

    32 Reviews
    142 Photos
    301 Saves
    Eddyville, Illinois

    Bell Smith Springs is one of the most beautiful recreation areas the Shawnee National Forest has to offer. It contains a series of clear, rocky streams and scenic canyons bordered by high sandstone cliffs and an abundance of vegetation unique to Illinois. The trail system consists of eight miles of interconnected trails featuring strange and wonderful rock formations, such as Devil's Backbone, Boulder Falls and a natural rock bridge. Hiking this system of trails is a favorite activity because of the rock features, scenic overlooks, hidden springs and lush flora and fauna.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $15 / night

  • 3. Shawnee Forest Campground

    32 Reviews
    55 Photos
    189 Saves
    Vienna, Illinois

    Located in the Middle of Southern Illinois just Off I-24 it is a great place to stay while you explore all the the Shawnee Forest. From Giant City to Garden of the Gods. The Tunnel Hill bike trail is a half mile away and Cache River is just down the road. We have 60 Full Hook up sites. Large pull through sites up to 120 feet long. We have Shower Houses and Laundry Facilities. Our Campground is Open Year Round.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls

    4. Jackson Falls

    20 Reviews
    66 Photos
    414 Saves
    Shawnee National Forest, Illinois

    Jackson Falls offers many opportunities for technical climbing and is a beautiful scenic area of the Shawnee National Forest.  It is in the general forest area located east of the small town of Ozark, IL. This non-developed area has a small trailhead with a vault toilet. A short trail leads from the trailhead to the top of Jackson Falls.  There are high dangerous bluffs in the area, visitors should be cautious and aware of their surroundings. Camping is allowed here at no cost, since this is part of the general forest area and not a developed campground. Access: A narrow gravel road leads to the Jackson Falls Trailhead, but then the road becomes dirt and deadends past the trailhead.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • WiFi
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    5. Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    15 Reviews
    78 Photos
    106 Saves
    Grantsburg, Illinois

    If you are looking for a place in the center of the Shawnee National Forest, then Lake Glendale Recreation Area is for you. Its central location makes it easy to visit main attractions on either side of the forest or any place in-between. Surrounded by tall pine trees and mixed hardwood forests, Lake Glendale Recreation Area offers a wide range of recreation opportunities including hiking, camping, swimming, boating, fishing and bicycling. The accessible picnic area has a large picnic shelter near the lake with party grills for group gatherings.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed

    $10 - $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park

    6. Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park

    16 Reviews
    47 Photos
    9 Saves
    Goreville, Illinois

    Turkey Ridge is for campers who want a serene outdoor experience. It is a Class C walk-in campground that includes camp pads, picnic tables, cooking grills and showers. Drinking water and toilets are located near the parking lots.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash

    $18 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Giant City State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Giant City State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Giant City State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Giant City State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Giant City State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Giant City State Park Campground

    7. Giant City State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    165 Photos
    137 Saves
    Makanda, Illinois
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park

    8. Deer Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park

    14 Reviews
    15 Photos
    12 Saves
    Goreville, Illinois

    Deer Ridge campground is a well-shaded Class A facility offering gravel pads with electricity, picnic tables and cooking grills. Drinking water, showers, flush toilets and a sanitary dump station complete the setting for campers who prefer to include a few comforts of home with their outdoor adventure.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Glendale Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Glendale Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Glendale Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Glendale Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Glendale Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Glendale Recreation Area

    9. Lake Glendale Recreation Area

    12 Reviews
    43 Photos
    172 Saves
    Grantsburg, Illinois

    Lake Glendale If you are looking for a place in the center of the Shawnee National Forest, then Lake Glendale Recreation Area is for you. Its central location makes it easy to visit main attractions on either side of the forest or any place in-between. Surrounded by tall pine trees and mixed hardwood forests, Lake Glendale Recreation Area offers a wide range of recreation opportunities including hiking, camping, swimming, boating, fishing and bicycling. The picnic area has a large picnic shelter near the lake with party grills for group gatherings. Recreation Area brochure/map Lake Glendale Campgound Map

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $12 - $44 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Dixon Springs State Park Campground
Showing results 1-10 of 118 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Ozark

Recent Reviews In Ozark

690 Reviews of 118 Ozark Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Hilltop Campground
    October 4, 2024

    Hilltop Campground

    Decent overnight stop

    Hosts were friendly, but didn’t brief us on information such as where is the trash bin, what is the WiFi password. Restroom was old but relatively clean. There’s only one valve in the showers so all you get is lukewarm water. Not good on a cool or cold day. Some of the long term people have too many dogs, one had 6 little yippers, kind of annoying. And I’m not against dogs

  • Camper-submitted photo from Pine Hills
    August 15, 2024

    Pine Hills

    Very nice

    Very quiet and secluded. Campsites are roomy and some firewood is supplied.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    July 24, 2024

    Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    Stellar Illinois

    This is a little gem of a refuge within the Shawnee NF - about 30min from Marion, down a beautiful country road before nestling among the trees around the lake. The drive is paved/gravel the whole way, so very easily drivable for anyone in anything. Plenty of camp sites, both with electric and non-electric, double and single. Bring bug spray - horseflies and ticks. Beautiful lake, beautiful biking trails, etc. Firepits w/ grates are spacious and nice, fees are online. 1 bar verizon at camp, can get up to 3 bars within the area.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Hilltop Campground
    July 22, 2024

    Hilltop Campground

    Nice stop

    Stopped here for the night driving through the area. Nice campground, clean, safe, and right off the interstate.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Bean Ridge Pond Campground
    July 14, 2024

    Bean Ridge Pond Campground

    Nice private locationl

    There are only two camp site at this location and they are very close to each other. The camp sites are also very narrow. We camped in the lower site and had a difficult time getting everything out of the road.

    On the positive side, the site was clean, there was nobody there over the weekend and there was a humming bird. The pond had lots of frogs and and a few fish.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
    June 16, 2024

    Shawnee Forest Campground

    Great place to camp!

    We stayed 4 days and had a great time. The camp was clean and well maintained. The staff are very friendly and helpful and was more than happy to offer places to visit in the area, places to eat and provide assistance as needed. The trails are paved so we had a nice area to walk (twice around the lake from our site was 3 miles). :) We plan to visit again!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Benton KOA
    May 30, 2024

    Benton KOA

    Loud

    1 side is directly on the freeway VERY loud, the other is in between the sewer treatment plant and municipal airport. If you're a light sleeper might want to stay away Full video review on YouTube https://youtu.be/QpuNpA7UVZI

  • Camper-submitted photo from Union County Fair
    May 22, 2024

    Union County Fair

    Kentucky Bike Ralley

    I stayed here and camped for a bike rally. I think you can only camp during an event. And cost is different from each event. Nice place

  • Camper-submitted photo from South Marcum Campground
    May 13, 2024

    South Marcum Campground

    Great Campground

    Only $26 a night for full-hookups is amazing. Cell service for AT&T is marginal at 2 bars LTE. Only issue that I have is that site 49 is very hard to get level in, make sure that you bring extra leveling blocks if possible

  • Camper-submitted photo from Crab Orchard Lake Campground
    May 9, 2024

    Crab Orchard Lake Campground

    Probably nice in a big rig, sucks otherwise

    This campground was essentially an RV park. Only big rigs, some sites well spaced physically but no privacy in between so feels like everyone staring at each other. Some of the waterfront sites okay privacy-wise, but not most. Hookups work well, but bathrooms in terrible condition - especially showers.

    The whole place also smells like dead fish. We saw a raccoon go right through our campsite so be careful what you leave out, also tons of geese and saw two baby copperheads.

    The lake is at least really pretty and there’s a small beach area.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point - Lake Glendale
    May 9, 2024

    Oak Point - Lake Glendale

    Solar Eclipse Crossroads

    We camped here during the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse and it was also the overflow site which at that time was the side of the camp entrance road. Fast forward to April 7,8 & 9 2024 We are again on overflow campground where this time was their group camping site which was much better than the side of the road. The overflow site has 4 unisex bathrooms but no showers (showers are at the main campground) there is dining (open) pavilion with a fireplace and a filtered well water system. We had a blast watching the Total Solar Eclipse.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Jackson Falls
    May 8, 2024

    Jackson Falls

    Love this place!

    This is a spectacular place if you are looking for private and semi-private dispersed campgrounds that you can drive up to. Great hiking around the area. 

    The road to get into the primitive camp area is long, and just a little bumpy but we had no problem in a 4x4, also saw volvos and subarus do just fine.  Sprinter vans would be fine. Was pretty dry when we visited, could see the road getting a little sketch after big rain.  Definitely not gonna be fun for even small RV's. Tough turnarounds for large trailers or 5th wheels.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Oak Point Campground
    May 6, 2024

    Oak Point Campground

    Nice national park campground

    Location is everything and this is well in the middle of a great area in Shawnee National Forest. Garden of the gods, Bell Smith springs, Ferne State park, and on and on. You can spend a week here and not see everything.
    There are primitive and electric (with water) sites. There are no sites with sewer hookup. There is a dump station at the entrance.

    Sites are generally level and well kept. Very large rigs (35+) will be challenging, but I've seen them - more towards the front. There are some lake front spots that can be had. Sites are first come and there are no reservations taken. During the week, no problem. Weekends would be iffy.

    Large lake with swimming, fishing, kayaking. Also has a bike trail around it - maybe 2 miles.

    Shower houses are kept clean, but as of this posting, they need some maintenance work.

    All in all, this is a must stop if you want to enjoy what the area has to offer.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Gun Creek
    April 30, 2024

    Gun Creek

    Blue Jay #49 Water site

    Love this state park! Clean, quiet, water views and lots of bike paths to ride.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Tween the Lakes RV Park & Campground
    April 27, 2024

    Tween the Lakes RV Park & Campground

    No frills campground

    This is a no frills campground just off of I-69/I-24. Check in was completed online and our site was marked with our name. All sites are full hook up with concrete pads. The county has a trail system that begin just a few hundred feet down the road that is a nice stretch of the legs. The skeleton on the motorcycle welcoming you was interesting, maybe we were really early or really late for Halloween. The campground is in need of some TLC of the grounds. There also seems to be a lot of long term residents.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Crab Orchard Lake Campground
    April 24, 2024

    Crab Orchard Lake Campground

    Excellent Lakeside Campgrouind

    Getting there: Easy access off Illinois 13 East of Carbondale 

    Check in and staff: Campground is now under the egis of recreation.gov& reservations through them are a must. This is new& when planning the trip the website said“first come first serve” so we arrived on a Friday evening(4pm) with no reservation. The sign said RV sites all taken. The host was wonderful! He has been here 9 years and steered us to a nice site for the one night we will be here. The online experience with recreation.gov was not pleasant, impossible in fact. So I had to call. This took quite awhile. Once I got a real live person it was great, and we got our site with no problems. 

    Amenities: Bathrooms: clean, paper towels& air dryers. 

    Site: A-35. In the middle of the A loop and therefore not on the water. Still, very nice. After all, beggars can’t be choosers! Sites are somewhat spacious, but not terribly private.

  • Camper-submitted photo from COE Lake Barkley Canal Campground
    April 24, 2024

    COE Lake Barkley Canal Campground

    Nice campground, disgusting bathroom.

    Primitive campground with electric and water, who knew. Nice sites well kept. Showers were disgusting, drain had accumulated crud. Sinks also gross.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
    April 10, 2024

    Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park

    Campground near the dam.

    We camped here with our pups to see the eclipse in Paducah. The area is not really pretty or scenic. You can walk to the dam from the campground but it's nothing super special to see. There is dead fish laying around everywhere and it also smells like it. The campsites are very confusing. There is no map anywhere, except online. Sometimes you can't even read the numbers on the piles. The bathhouse was pretty ok. It was cleaned daily and always stocked. The water pressure was very low. Our camp host was super awesome and nice. There are also no hiking trails close by. The town of Paducah was worth a visit, otherwise we would not camp there again.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA
    April 8, 2024

    Paducah-Kentucky Lake KOA

    Great overnight!

    We called from the road to get an overnight stop - the staff were super nice both on the phone and in person. When we arrived, the lady who checked us in gave me a coupon for the drive-in movie theater that was literally down the road. Normally, when we camp we arrive so late it’s impossible to take advantage of area attractions so we decided to go and can I tell you, it was awesome!!! The theater accommodated our camper and the food (cheese fries especially) at the snack stand was great. As far as the campground, our site was a bit hilly but we had a nice view of the lake and close proximity to the playground. My kids also enjoyed the pool. Solid place to overnight!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Trail of Tears State Forest
    April 6, 2024

    Trail of Tears State Forest

    Not free but worth the $8/night

    Surprised to find nice porta potty at our site that was remote from others. Potable water and camper registration (but had a boil water warning but that was not normal). 30 min into Cape Girardeau and 15 min to Anna. Nice picnic table and raised fire ring/ grill.



Guide to Ozark

Camping near Ozark, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Giant City State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The hiking trails are beautiful, and not too crowded," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Fishing and Boating: At South Marcum Campground, you can enjoy fishing and boating on Rend Lake. A camper noted, "The campground is on Rend Lake with swimming, fishing, and boating."
  • Stargazing: The clear skies at Pine Ridge make it perfect for stargazing. One reviewer shared, "Nice stargazing," highlighting the area's natural beauty at night.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the sites. A visitor at Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs said, "The grounds and pit toilets were remarkably clean."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness of the campgrounds. One camper at Jackson Falls mentioned, "This is a spectacular place if you are looking for private and semi-private dispersed campgrounds."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at Shawnee Forest Campground said, "The staff are very friendly and helpful."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Turkey Ridge Campground, have basic facilities. A camper noted, "The campground is basic—there’s an honor box if you don’t pay online."
  • Busy Weekends: Expect larger crowds on weekends. A visitor at Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground mentioned, "Very busy on Fridays and weekends."
  • Road Conditions: Some access roads can be rough. A camper at Jackson Falls said, "The road to get into the primitive camp area is long, and just a little bumpy."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like South Sandusky Campground, which has a playground. A parent mentioned, "It was very safe and had close restrooms and playgrounds."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities planned. One family at Giant City State Park Campground enjoyed the trails, saying, "We found several short but gorgeous hiking trails, which was perfect for our young children."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone happy with snacks. A camper at Pine Ridge suggested, "Bring bug spray—horseflies and ticks."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: Some sites can be tricky to level. A visitor at South Marcum Campground advised, "Make sure that you bring extra leveling blocks if possible."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Campers appreciate full hookups for convenience. One RV enthusiast at Shawnee Forest Campground mentioned, "The sites are set up to provide some privacy."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor reception. A camper at Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs noted, "0 cell signal, which is just what we look for while on vacation."

Camping in Ozark, IL, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Ozark, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Ozark, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 118 campgrounds and RV parks near Ozark, IL and 5 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Ozark, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ozark, IL is Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 52 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ozark, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Ozark, IL.

  • What parks are near Ozark, IL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Ozark, IL that allow camping, notably Shawnee National Forest and Rend Lake.