Goreville, Illinois serves as a gateway to multiple camping areas within the Shawnee National Forest region of southern Illinois. Ferne Clyffe State Park offers several campground options including Turkey Ridge, Deer Ridge, and Group Campground, with accommodations ranging from basic tent sites to electric hookups for RVs. Jackson Falls provides free dispersed camping opportunities for those seeking a more primitive experience, while established campgrounds like Hilltop Campground and Shawnee Forest Campground cater to both tent and RV campers with full hookup options. The area's mixed-use campgrounds typically feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails.
Seasonal considerations affect camping experiences throughout the region, with most campgrounds open year-round but offering peak conditions in spring and fall. Turkey Ridge Campground divides into two sections: "South LOOP sites 1-23 are first come sites" while "NORTH LOOP SITES 24-59" are reservable through the Illinois reservation system. Water access varies by location, with potable water available at dump stations and scattered hydrants at some campgrounds. Cell service can be limited in more remote areas, particularly in the deeper sections of Shawnee National Forest. As one camper noted, "This is a very clean, quiet, shady campground. It is off interstate 57 if you are passing through or a great place to park and see the sites of Shawnee National Forest."
The camping landscape near Goreville provides convenient access to numerous natural attractions. Ferne Clyffe State Park features limestone bluffs popular with rock climbers, naturally forested woodlands, cliff caves, and several small waterfalls. Many campgrounds serve as ideal base camps for exploring the broader region, including Garden of the Gods, Cave in Rock, and the Cache River Bayou. Campers frequently mention the area's geological features as highlights of their stay. According to a visitor, "Ferne Cliffe State Park is situated in the Shawnee National Forest, in the southern part of Illinois. The campground is small, situated on a limestone bluff which is cut by a small rivulet and some seasonal small waterfalls. The area is really a hidden gem."
$40 / night
"We followed our GPS to the clearly marked CG entrance but our GPS showed we still had about a half mile to go."
"Super friendly camp host, conveniently located off the interstate and feels pretty secure and tranquil. I will say some of the gravel was washed out which is surprising given how dry it’s been."
$18 / night
"Great campground away from roads and noise. Goreville is small local town with grocery store and service station for supplies. South LOOP sites 1-23 are first come sites."
"Had very nice trails, very clean. Forest is beautiful. We camped at the primitive area spot 11. Spots are pretty dam close to each other. There is camping you can walk off to."
"Ferne Cliffe State Park is situated in the Shawnee National Forest, in the southern part of Illinois."
"Dog friendly, pretty well spaced out campsites but some are used as paths with to get to farther back campsites. Good set up, not too close to neighbors and it’s heavily wooded in between."
"There is currently walk in only unless you are reserving a horse camp. There are fantastic hiking trails and equestrian trails here and you would think you are in the mountains here."
"Each site has electricity and access to water. Some have more.
All the hiking in the park is some of the best in Illinois. The visitors center has a lot of great information."
$15 / night
"However, by Saturday morning (Easter weekend) all but 5 sites had cleared out and we had the place nearly to ourselves for the rest of the stay. "
"Loved all the hikes within walking distance, a bit of a drive in but fun to explore"
"Jackson offers some of the best rock climbing in southern Illinois. There are about 60 climbing areas along the sandstone bluffs and freestanding boulders, with multiple routes."
"We are a Jeep family so I may have more experience than others in off-roading. We opted to turn around and stay at the main parking lot which is VERY accessible."
"The people of Goreville are nice and friendly and Ron, who oversees the campground is a great guy!"
"Small little campground off the highway. Inexpensive, quiet. Great spot if your in a need of electricity and a hot shower"
"We pulled in around midnight and left at 8 am."
"Beautiful spot with easy access and not far off the highway"
$10 - $25 / night
"Wthat a nice find in southern Illinois just outside of Marion. Very big roomy and grassy sites. Some right on the lake shore."
"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."
"The boulders all around are weather beaten, moss covered, and a nice change from rural Illinois. Each group of campsites has a water source and outhouse nearby."
"Camp in this corner site close to parking and one of the main trails. Site 12 is close to this one sitting back off the path and probably would be my second choice. "
ScoutThis is my first experience RV camping and it was wonderful. They have a Bath House nearby in case you need it but they also have electric and water right here. It is $20 per trip to get in, but only $46 per night. I understand it is significantly less if you are in Indiana resident.
GuidePicked a spot that unknowingly left me a sitting duck for tornadoes later that evening. Great view, though. And never saw a single person. Moved to the spillway the second night... little less vulnerable.
LegendIf you need hook ups you can only use the small loop right by the river and train track. Not very cozy in my opinion. The wooded campground that is primative is much better and more private. Lots of hiking here but it is all on a huge hill.
ScoutUpon entering at about 3:30pm on a random Wednesday, there were three deer just hanging out just a hop before the sites you are not able to reserve (we easily switched our site over there- just a side note). The wildlife on that side is ruthless though! We gained an evening visitor (and I got the Blackstone pre cleaned every night!) but the lil critter stole the marshmallows and pizza crust from the small storage tent!
GuideEasy access off the highway. Lots of trees. Sites reasonably spaced. Great water access. Easy to back in but there were lots of trees so bigger rigs be aware.
TravelerI loved it a lot of rocks to climb and places to hike people are friendly and the sunsets and views are insane.
GuideNo showers, although listed among the amenities. Vault toilets are loaded with spiders and mud daubers with the exception of the one near the entrance. No sign of the camp hosts. Might be because of the time of year. There are some good spots along the water but not very RV friendly. Plenty of others away from the water and well spaced.
ScoutNice lake, and paved trails for biking or walking. Quiet during the week
GuideNothing here but an open field and an old barn like structure. Just isolated.
Primitive and established camping options near Goreville, Illinois provide varied experiences within Shawnee National Forest's diverse terrain. The region sits on unglaciated land featuring sandstone bluffs, distinctive rock formations, and mixed hardwood forests. Temperatures range from mid-80s in summer to below freezing in winter, with spring and fall offering moderate conditions and less crowded campsites.
Hike to seasonal waterfalls: Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area features multiple natural pools perfect for summer swimming. "Just around the corner (or down the trail at the start of camp) is a network of hiking trails. They scurry around cliffs, falls and ravines. We found small pools perfect for a summer dip," notes one Redbud Campground visitor.
Practice rock climbing: Jackson Falls offers opportunities for climbers of all skill levels. "The place is beautiful; forests and great big, moss covered boulders. It was fun climbing down to the bottom of the falls, even with small kids," reports one camper at Jackson Falls.
Fish in local lakes: Multiple fishing spots exist throughout the area, including at Dutchman Lake. A camper mentions, "Great little spot right off the interstate. Lots of nice scenery and decent fishing" at Dutchman Lake Camp.
Trail access directly from campsites: Many campgrounds connect to hiking networks. At Deer Ridge Campground, campers appreciate that "there are hiking trails right from the campground. Sites have electric."
Springtime wildlife viewing: The area comes alive with unique natural displays in spring. One Deer Ridge visitor notes, "Once darkness hit the fireflies in the forest were magnificent!" while another mentions "lots of flowers and trees in full bloom where you can leave the doors open and enjoy the scenery."
Proximity to multiple attractions: The central location makes day trips easy. A reviewer at Turkey Ridge Campground explains, "There were several hiking trails that looked pretty, but we didn't get a chance to walk them. Overall, this is a nice and quiet campground. We would definitely stay again."
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly by location and carrier. At Jackson Falls, one camper reports they "lost cellphone service immediately upon entering reserve," while another states they "didn't have T-Mobile cellphone reception."
Campground differences: Not all sites offer the same experience. A Turkey Ridge camper notes, "Sites are pretty damn close to each other. There is camping you can walk off to," while a Giant City visitor explains it has "both electric sites for campers and primitive sites for tents. All are shaded and quiet."
Water access limitations: Water availability varies seasonally. A Jackson Falls visitor mentions, "We went during a dry spell and there was no running water at the falls! Still had a blast there though!" At Deer Ridge, a camper points out "water only available at few spots and you would need a really long hose to attach if open faucet available."
Choose waterfall proximity: Multiple campsites offer quick access to kid-friendly water features. At Turkey Ridge Campground, a visitor shares, "Really, this state park is a must for anyone who lives nearby or is driving through. Our favorite is Hawk's Cave Trail. It's an easy hike and the kids explored the caves for hours!"
Consider bathroom facilities: Restroom quality varies widely between campgrounds. One Redbud Campground visitor states, "Pit toilets were dirty even for pit toilets," while a Giant City camper notes, "Showers/bathrooms are really nice and clean."
Be aware of natural hazards: The region has typical woodland concerns. At Crab Orchard, a camper mentions, "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."
Level site availability: Not all campsites accommodate larger RVs. At Shawnee Forest Campground, a visitor noted, "Our site was not level and with all the rain we had, there were water puddles at the steps. There are some nice sites in this CG but we were not offered one of the better ones."
Hookup locations matter: Check power pedestal positions when setting up. One Shawnee Forest Campground reviewer explained, "The gravel roads are slightly narrow with some trees but we did not have any issues getting to site 21. The water and electric (50/30/20 AMP) are at the back of the gravel pad. There are two sewer hookups, which was nice."
Seasonal flooding awareness: Weather conditions can affect campsite conditions. A Hilltop Campground visitor mentioned, "I will say some of the gravel was washed out which is surprising given how dry it's been," while another noted, "Gravel lots were level and plenty big for our 38' Class A motorhome + Jeep."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Goreville, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Goreville, IL offers a wide range of camping options, with 114 campgrounds and RV parks near Goreville, IL and 7 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Goreville, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Goreville, IL is Shawnee Forest Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 37 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Goreville, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near Goreville, IL.
What parks are near Goreville, IL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 parks near Goreville, IL that allow camping, notably Shawnee National Forest and Rend Lake.
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