Best Dispersed Camping near Shawnee National Forest

Shawnee National Forest offers several dispersed camping options in southern Illinois, including Jackson Falls, Lake Glendale Recreation Area, and Dutchman Lake Camp. Jackson Falls provides free primitive camping with sites located near the trailhead and additional spots further down the trail. According to reviews, "the area can be tricky to find if you are unfamiliar with the area" and "can get very crowded on nice days due to its proximity to the college campus." The sites are particularly popular with rock climbers, who utilize approximately 60 climbing areas along the sandstone bluffs.

Access to Jackson Falls requires navigating unpaved roads with occasional water crossings. Vehicles with higher clearance perform best, though many standard cars can reach the main parking area in dry conditions. Several campers noted that "the road to get into the primitive camp area is long, and just a little bumpy" and becomes more challenging after rainfall. Lake Glendale Recreation Area provides more developed camping options with electric hookups, water access, and shower facilities for those seeking additional amenities.

All dispersed sites in the forest operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Most Jackson Falls sites contain fire rings, but no picnic tables or campfire grills. No potable water is available at primitive sites; campers must bring all drinking water. A single vault toilet is maintained at the Jackson Falls trailhead. Cell service is limited or nonexistent throughout much of the forest. Visitors must pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles. Ticks and poison ivy are common in warmer months. For those seeking more solitude, hiking further from the parking areas typically yields more secluded camping opportunities.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Shawnee National Forest (6)

    1. Jackson Falls

    22 Reviews
    Shawnee National Forest, IL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 658-2111

    "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."

    "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."

    2. Lake Glendale Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    Grantsburg, IL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 949-3807

    $12 - $44 / night

    "This campground is an absolute gem and is by far our favorite in Illinois.Tucked into the tall pines of the Shawnee national forest, this park offers a handful of gorgeous sites for campers to enjoy, many"

    "There is a longer wine trail further west in Shawnee National Forest.

    When I entered Lake Glendale, Cardinal Bay boat launch was the first area I visited."

    3. Dutchman Lake Camp

    3 Reviews
    Buncombe, IL
    11 miles

    "Beautiful spot with easy access and not far off the highway"

    4. Dispersed Campsite Shawnee National Forest

    1 Review
    Grantsburg, IL
    12 miles

    "It's easily accessible by all rig types. Backs up to the open forest and you pull right back onto the highway."

    6. Trail of Tears State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Jonesboro, IL
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 833-4910

    "Excellent for tent camping when you want relatively easy access and still feel a bit of solitude."

    "Surprised to find nice porta potty at our site that was remote from others."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Shawnee National Forest

10 Photos of 6 Shawnee National Forest Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Shawnee National Forest

41 Reviews of 6 Shawnee National Forest Campgrounds



Guide to Shawnee National Forest

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Shawnee National Forest in Illinois, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Shawnee National Forest

  • Hiking enthusiasts will find plenty of trails to explore, especially around Jackson Falls, which offers great hiking opportunities amidst stunning scenery.
  • For those who enjoy fishing, Dutchman Lake Camp provides a picturesque setting with decent fishing spots right off the interstate.
  • Rock climbing is a popular activity at Jackson Falls, where adventurers can tackle various routes while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Lake Glendale Recreation Area

  • This area features well-maintained sites with access to drinking water and electric hookups, making it a convenient choice for those looking for a more comfortable experience while camping at Lake Glendale Recreation Area.
  • Visitors can enjoy a large, clean sand beach perfect for swimming and relaxing, along with paddle boat and kayak rentals available for a fun day on the water.
  • The campground is located near other attractions, such as the Ohio River and various parks, providing ample opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Shawnee National Forest in Illinois

  • Be prepared for primitive conditions at sites like Dispersed Campsite Shawnee National Forest, where amenities such as toilets and drinking water are not available, so plan accordingly.
  • Wildlife encounters are common, so if you're camping at places like Panther Den Wilderness, be mindful of your surroundings and store food securely to avoid attracting animals.
  • Many dispersed camping areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early can help secure a good spot, especially during weekends when places like Trail of Tears State Forest can get busy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Shawnee National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Shawnee National Forest is Jackson Falls with a 4.2-star rating from 22 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Shawnee National Forest?

TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Shawnee National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.