Shawnee National Forest spans 289,000 acres across southern Illinois, featuring sandstone bluffs and hardwood forests at elevations between 300-1,000 feet. The forest contains over 80 dispersed campsites scattered throughout seven wilderness areas where campers can experience rustic camping with minimal facilities. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall bring more moderate conditions with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes within Shawnee National Forest offer fishing for bass, catfish and crappie. "Beautiful little spots as you come in. Quiet and easy to get too," notes one camper about Dutchman Lake Camp, where visitors can fish directly from shoreline access points. Another visitor mentioned "Great little spot right off the interstate. Lots of nice scenery and decent fishing."
Rock climbing: For climbers seeking challenging routes, Jackson Falls features approximately 60 climbing areas along sandstone bluffs. "This place is popular with climbers," one visitor noted, with routes ranging from beginner to expert level. Areas require proper climbing gear and knowledge of technical climbing techniques.
Hiking around lakes: A 3-mile trail circles Lake Glendale, providing views of CCC-built structures and diverse forest habitats. According to one Lake Glendale Recreation Area camper: "The trail around the lake is about 3 miles; a nice hike that really gives you a good look at the park. On the hike you pass two large shelters built by the CCC as well as the boat ramp, dam, and swimming beach."
What campers like
Solitude in less-visited areas: While Jackson Falls can get crowded, many campers find peace at other forest locations. At Trail of Tears State Forest, one visitor appreciated the "Excellent for tent camping when you want relatively easy access and still feel a bit of solitude." This campground offers more remote sites with fewer visitors throughout the year.
Swimming areas: Lake Glendale's beach provides relief during hot summer months. A visitor shared: "The beach and swimming area was so nice for us to enjoy." Swimming is permitted only during daylight hours with no lifeguards on duty.
Cell service availability: Unlike many remote forest locations, some campsites offer limited connectivity. A Dutchman Lake camper mentioned: "Beautiful Verizon works well," though coverage varies substantially throughout the forest. Areas closer to highways typically have better reception than deep wilderness sites.
What you should know
Weather and seasonal considerations: Fall brings stunning foliage but also drier conditions that affect waterfalls. A Jackson Falls visitor noted: "Beautiful fall foliage. No falls since it hasn't rained in a while. Great hike around. Campsites were plentiful, a lot of cars driving in late at night." Water levels at falls and creeks fluctuate dramatically by season.
Bug activity: Ticks are prevalent in warmer months, and some water areas attract significant insect populations. One camper at Dutchman Lake observed: "The lake surface had a lot of bug activity - no thanks! We ended up choosing a grassy space next to the curve in the road in between our neighbors. Very peaceful! No bugs."
Fire restrictions and supplies: Campers must plan for firewood needs. A Jackson Falls reviewer advised: "Bring your own firewood. From inside the state of IL of course." Most dispersed sites have existing fire rings, but firewood gathering may be restricted in certain areas to protect forest health.
Water crossings: Access to some primitive sites requires navigating small streams. A camper reported: "There was a shallow creek crossing right before the camping areas that I was worried about when I arrived at night, but I realized in the morning that it was not a big deal even for 2WD vehicles."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming alternatives: When lake surfaces have high bug activity, look for alternate recreation. A family at Dispersed Campsite Shawnee National Forest shared: "Love this spot! It's easily accessible by all rig types. Backs up to the open forest and you pull right back onto the highway." These highway-adjacent sites provide quick access to nearby attractions.
Cell service planning: Families relying on navigation apps or emergency contact should know coverage limitations. One camper warned: "Lost cellphone service immediately upon entering reserve, FYI." Download offline maps before arrival and establish meeting points if separated.
Site selection timing: During popular weekends, arrive early to secure family-friendly spots. A visitor noted that despite crowds, "secluded camp sites were easy to find, isolation was achieved, garbage was very minimally found (occasional broken glass or bottle caps near sites)."
Tips from RVers
Water accessibility: RV campers should fill tanks before arrival at primitive sites. At Trail of Tears State Forest, a camper found: "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)." Always check current water advisories.
Road conditions: For rustic camping near Shawnee National Forest, vehicle clearance matters. According to one RVer: "We run a 28ft RV and were able to cross the first water wash without problem. We are a Jeep family so I may have more experience than others in off-roading." They added, "We opted to turn around and stay at the main parking lot which is VERY accessible."
Seasonal road challenges: Weather significantly impacts accessibility. A camper warned: "Grave Road getting there was a bit rough for my Ram Promaster. Hill down to trail head could get slick if wet weather. Was a little nervous getting out after it had rained." Spring visits particularly require attention to road conditions after rainfall.
