Primitive camping sites surround Buncombe, Illinois, with various hiking trails and water features throughout the Shawnee National Forest region. Located in southern Illinois, the area sits within a geological transition zone where the Ozark and Shawnee Hills formations create distinctive rock formations. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-45°F, while summer months see averages of 75-95°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Explore rock formations and waterfalls: Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area offers several hiking trails leading to unique geological features. A camper noted, "There's hiking trails, but they can potentially be confusing, so take a picture of the map and make a plan if you can. There's a natural rock arch formation, and lots of dramatic cliffs" while another mentioned swimming opportunities, stating "There is a spring/large swimming hole, with a few places to jump off of, but check with the locals to make sure the water is deep enough."
Fishing at nearby lakes: Dutchman Lake Camp provides easy access to fishing. As one visitor remarked, "Great little spot right off the interstate. Lots of nice scenery and decent fishing." The primitive camping areas here offer direct lakeside recreation.
Night sky viewing: The rural setting offers excellent stargazing opportunities. A camper at Giant City State Park mentioned, "Due to the somewhat rural location you could not beat the view of the stars at night." Light pollution is minimal throughout the forest region, particularly at primitive sites.
Walking on former golf cart paths: Unique to the area, some campgrounds utilize converted recreation areas. At Shawnee Forest Campground, a camper observed, "Unique campground in that it is on a former golf course. Has the old golf cart paths as walking/biking paths!"
What campers like
Quiet camping with wildlife viewing: Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area offers a secluded experience. A visitor shared, "I had no service and it was pitch black at night. The only amenities are a vault toilet and water. Plenty of hiking right from your site." Another camper mentioned, "It is remote with several trails to explore. The sites were level and good for tent camping."
Spring and fall seasonal visits: The area's temperature fluctuations make shoulder seasons particularly pleasant. A camper at Giant City State Park noted, "Campground here has both electric sites for campers and primitive sites for tents. All are shaded and quiet... perfect for spring or autumn." Many trails throughout the region feature seasonal wildflower displays.
Evening firefly displays: In late spring and early summer, the forest comes alive with natural light shows. One visitor to Deer Ridge Campground shared, "Once darkness hit the fireflies in the forest were magnificent!" The timing typically runs from late May through July.
Accessibility to hiking directly from camps: Many campsites connect directly to trail systems. A camper at Deer Ridge Campground observed, "The sites are big and there are hiking trails right from the campground. Sites have electric."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many forest areas have spotty or no coverage. A camper at Jackson Falls reported, "Lost cellphone service immediately upon entering reserve, FYI." Consider downloading offline maps before arrival.
Seasonal water levels: Water features vary dramatically by season and rainfall. One visitor noted, "We went during a dry spell and there was no running water at the falls! Still had a blast there though!" Spring generally offers the most consistent water flow.
Road conditions vary: Some camping areas require navigating unpaved roads. A Jackson Falls visitor cautioned, "Gravel Road getting there was a bit rough for my Ram Promaster. Hill down to trail head could get slick if wet weather."
Wildlife and plant hazards: Ticks and poison ivy are common. One camper warned, "Locals warned of poisonous snakes. We never saw any, but it's a good idea to keep a lookout, especially since they can swim too." Another mentioned, "It was easy to find firewood with out having to go very far, becareful there is a good amount of poison ivy."
Tips for camping with families
Cave exploration for kids: Several areas feature child-friendly rock formations. At Backpack Campground in Ferne Clyffe State Park, a visitor recommended, "Make sure you take time to explore the waterfall and other short trails nearby." The park's Hawk's Cave Trail offers accessible cave features.
Choose trails by difficulty level: The region offers paths suitable for various ages. A camper advised, "Rebman trail is good for anyone including little kids." Many campgrounds post trail ratings at information boards or trailheads.
Consider campsite spacing: Some areas offer more privacy than others. A visitor to Turkey Ridge Campground observed, "#35 is a nice location. Large yard and not super close to other campers. #53 is smaller but very private." Another noted, "The sites are spacious and include a cooking grate."
Plan for wildlife encounters: The forest provides educational opportunities. One camper mentioned, "There was a ton of wildlife though and it was really neat to listen to all the different species throughout the night."
Tips from RVers
Water access planning: Many sites require filling tanks before setting up. A camper noted, "Water available to fill your holding tank and in. Couple of locations in campground." Another mentioned, "Water is easily accessible and clean."
Size restrictions at primitive sites: Large rigs face limitations at some campgrounds. One visitor cautioned, "I actually didn't end up camping here because it looked like a rock site. I maybe saw two tents, everyone else in big RV's. If you are doing tent camping I would look elsewhere."
Electrical options: Several campgrounds offer hookups. At Shawnee Forest Campground, a camper specified, "The water and electric(50/30/20 AMP) are at the back of the gravel pad. There are two sewer hookups, which was nice. The water pressure was good around 50 psi."
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain. One RVer noted, "The sites are spacious but not level front to back, so you need to unhook. No biggie."
