Best RV Parks near Shawnee National Forest

If you're looking for a place to park your RV near Shawnee National Forest, look no further. Finding a place to camp in Illinois with your RV has never been easier. Each spot offers quick access to one or more of Shawnee National Forest's most popular destinations.

Best RV Sites Near Shawnee National Forest, IL (94)

  • 1. Birdsville Riverside RV Park

    1 Review
    6 Photos
    3 Saves
    Smithland, Kentucky

    We offer 34 Full-hook sites that back-up to the Ohio River in Western Kentucky. We are open late April until the end of November. All of our sites are spacious, and most of them are shaded. If you enjoy peace and quiet, Birdsville Riverside RV Park is the RV Park you want to stay at. We offer daily, weekly and monthly sites. We also have a dock you can fish off of, or enjoy relaxing in one of our hammocks.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Trash
    • Firewood Available

    $45 - $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress Lakes RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress Lakes RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress Lakes RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress Lakes RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress Lakes RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cypress Lakes RV Park

    2. Cypress Lakes RV Park

    6 Reviews
    33 Photos
    25 Saves
    Gilbertsville, Kentucky

    Welcome to Cypress Lake Reserve RV Park: Your Ideal RV Park in Kentucky.

    Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Calvert City, Kentucky, Cypress Lake Reserve RV Park invites travelers to experience the beauty of RV camping in the Bluegrass State. Located at 30 Cypress Pines Ln, our park offers a tranquil retreat with a host of amenities and activities for guests of all ages.

    At Cypress Lake Reserve, convenience meets comfort with our range of amenities tailored to enhance your camping experience. Pull-thru sites and full hookups ensure easy setup for RVers, while amenities such as picnic tables, a camp store, and laundry facilities cater to your every need. Take advantage of our swimming pool, pool house, playground, basketball court, cornhole area, horseshoe area, and shower house/laundry facilities for endless entertainment and relaxation. Don't forget to explore our 5-acre lake, perfect for fishing and kayaking adventures.

    Get captivated by the charm of the city and discover the Top attractions during your stay at Cypress Lake Reserve RV Park. Explore the quirky wonders of Apple Valley Hillbilly Art & Toyland, catch a movie under the stars at Calvert City Drive-In Movie Theater, or enjoy live performances at the Kentucky Opry Theatre. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at Calvert City Golf & Country Club, while fans of Americana can't miss the iconic Superman Statue.

    Located within easy reach of Paducah, Mayfield, and Murray, Cypress Lake Reserve offers convenient access to nearby Top cities of Kentucky and their attractions. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or simply a peaceful getaway, Cypress Lake Reserve RV Park provides the perfect home base for your Kentucky travels.

    Escape to the beauty of Kentucky and create unforgettable memories at Cypress Lake Reserve RV Park. With its array of amenities, nearby attractions, and scenic surroundings, our park is the ideal destination for your next RV camping adventure. Book your stay today at cypresslakervpark.com and experience the best of Kentucky hospitality!

    Book your stay now at (270) 395-4267, or via website at www.cypresslakereserve.com or visit us at #30 Cypress Pines Ln, Calvert City, KY 42029.

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

    $49 / night

    • No image available

      3. Venture River RV park

      1 Review
      6 Saves
      Eddyville, Kentucky

      What more could a kid ask for…….water slides, wave pools, volleyball & CAMPING??!! Yes, it’s finally here! The ground has been leveled, the sites set, the bathhouse built and trees planted.

      Venture River RV Park is located onsite at Venture River Waterpark in Eddyville, Kentucky. We are a family friendly & fun campground. We have 40 RV sites and 10 primitive campsites, a newly constructed bathhouse with showers, a small camp store for supplies, a lake for fishing, kayak & paddleboat rentals, and a playground for the little ones.

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

      $25 - $45 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Cape Camping & RV Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Cape Camping & RV Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Cape Camping & RV Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Cape Camping & RV Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Cape Camping & RV Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Cape Camping & RV Park

      4. Cape Camping & RV Park

      3 Reviews
      11 Photos
      6 Saves
      Cape Girardeau, Missouri
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      Camper-submitted photo from Duck Creek RV Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Duck Creek RV Park

      5. Duck Creek RV Park

      3 Reviews
      2 Photos
      8 Saves
      Paducah, Kentucky
      • Pets
      • Electric Hookups
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • No image available

        6. Marion Campground & RV Park

        6 Reviews
        8 Saves
        Johnston City, Illinois
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Electric Hookups
        • Phone Service
        • Reservable
        • ADA Access

        $40 / night

        Camper-submitted photo from Birdsville Riverside RV Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Birdsville Riverside RV Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Birdsville Riverside RV Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Birdsville Riverside RV Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Birdsville Riverside RV Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Birdsville Riverside RV Park

        7. Birdsville Riverside RV Park

        5 Reviews
        15 Photos
        13 Saves
        Smithland, Kentucky

        Large lots with shade trees and Big Rig Friendly, with full hook-ups on the river. Little off the beaten path, but worth it.

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

        $45 - $65 / night

        Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park

        8. Fern Lake Campground and RV Park

        14 Reviews
        33 Photos
        64 Saves
        Paducah, Kentucky

        We are a Good Sam Park and a family-owned campground that was established by Fern and Sam in 1977. Our beloved, Sam, passed away December 20, 2018. Greg and Deanna Bazzell are the second generation campground hosts who live on the property. Whether you want to spend the night or stay longer to visit or work in the area, we can accommodate you. From tents to the largest campers and motor homes we have a convenient site for you. Our entire team is committed to meeting your needs. As a result, a high percentage of our business is from repeat customers.

        We would welcome the opportunity to accommodate your stay and deliver you the best service in the industry. ~ Greg and Deanna Bazzell

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

        $10 - $48 / night

        Camper-submitted photo from Bubba J’s RV Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Bubba J’s RV Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Bubba J’s RV Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Bubba J’s RV Park

        9. Bubba J’s RV Park

        Be the first to review!
        4 Photos
        4 Saves
        Bonnie, Illinois

        13 Full hook-up sites - all are shaded. Nine of the sites are annual with lots of parking. Four are 90' pull throughs with electric (20/30/50), water and sewer.

        Rend Lake is only 5 minutes away - huge recreation lake - Marina, Kayak Trails, Bike Trails etc. Several Golf Courses in the area.

        Bar/Restaurant next door - Bubba Too's

        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Electric Hookups
        • Reservable
        • RVs
        • Trash

        $42 / night

        Camper-submitted photo from Willow Bend Retreat - Temporarily Closed

        10. Willow Bend Retreat - Temporarily Closed

        1 Review
        1 Photo
        1 Save
        Johnston City, Illinois

        Willow Bend Retreat coming Spring 2023! Claim your spot today!

        160 Acre Retreat grounds

        Dry Camping, Glamping, 15 Rv sites incl. Water & Elec

        Bathhouse, Nature Trails, Fishing,

        Rv Dump Station

        Drive-in & Hike-in sites

        FOR INFO/ PRICING/RESERV

        WillowBendRetreat@gmail.com

        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Electric Hookups
        • Reservable
        • ADA Access
        • RVs

        $40 - $200 / night

      Showing results 1-10 of 94 campgrounds

      Recent RV Reviews In Shawnee National Forest

      579 Reviews of 94 Shawnee National Forest 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 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 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 Sharp Rock Falls Recreation
        April 4, 2024

        Sharp Rock Falls Recreation

        Longbranch Shooting House And Saloon

        You're welcome to at longbranch! Please make your reservations.
        Only 16 spots left!

        Ava Illinois +1 618-318-6734 Text your name and number of people on your campsite to reserve your spot.

        The Solar Eclipse Event "PARK @ THE MOON"

        Extended or early arrivals welcome. Just simply request more information in the text. We will get ahold of asap with a more information and a confirmation number.

        #ShareThisPost #solareclipse2024

      • Camper-submitted photo from Fern Lake Campground and RV Park
        March 25, 2024

        Fern Lake Campground and RV Park

        Friendly, well kept, just off I24

        This is a convenient and pleasant campground, just off exit 3 on I24 in Paducah. The staff was friendly and walked us to our site and showed us the hookups. He gave us a lovely spot in the shade by the little lake. Have not used the showers yet so can't comment on that. We stayed on a Sunday night. The park was about half full. Seems to be a nice quiet family place. 

        They are across the street from a Mexican restaurant. There is a liquor store next door. Other businesses nearby.

        Noise from the nearby traffic may bother some, but we didn't mind it and it was not loud enough to hear inside our RV.

        It is a good place for us to stop on our way from MN to visit friends in FL. Also convenient for visiting the National Quilting Museum. We will stop here again.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Shawnee Forest Campground
        March 18, 2024

        Shawnee Forest Campground

        Great Place!

        Stayed here on the way to and from Florida (home in Minnesota). Very nice campground. Well maintained, big sites for our 40ft fifth wheel, great sunrise/sunset views, and the bathrooms are very clean and well lite. The gentleman/host that greeted us at the office upon arrival was polite and helpful. Will definitely stay again!

      • Camper-submitted photo from Cypress Lakes RV Park
        February 25, 2024

        Cypress Lakes RV Park

        Looks are deceiving

        Mostly seasonal and permanent with a few spots for weekly and overnight. All sites are level, gravel with concrete patios and fire rings. The staff makes you feel like a friend immediately. Laundry is 1.50 per machine and the showers are large and clean. Interstate 24 is half a mile from this campground and some of the best restaurants in the area are within walking distance.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Giant City State Park Campground
        February 23, 2024

        Giant City State Park Campground

        Great trails and well kept campsites

        We stayed at Giant City in February on a very cold weekend. It was still a fantastic trip! The campsites, fire pits and pit toilets were well maintained. The shorter trails in the park were beautiful even in the winter. The Lodge also had excellent food and a very cozy feel. Definitely visit the Lodge!!

      • Camper-submitted photo from Pyramid State Recreation Area
        February 4, 2024

        Pyramid State Recreation Area

        Nice campsites and lots of lakes

        We stayed at the campground on the north end of Pyramid. The campsites were close together but we visited in February so we were the only campers. The fire pits were a little run down but the sites were nice and level with a table. No lantern posts. Pit toilets that were decent. The park office is a pretty long drive from the north end campground. The hiking is limited but the campground was peaceful and close to the lakes. Probably covered in bugs in the summer. Overall pretty nice stay



      Guide to Shawnee National Forest

      Camping near Shawnee National Forest, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

      What to do:

      • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails in the area. Many campers rave about the trails at Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground, with one visitor saying, "Easy walking distance to the observation trail that is the highlight of this park."
      • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, head to Gun Creek. A reviewer mentioned, "Clean facilities. Self check-in. Golf onsite, clubhouse with food," making it a great spot for a relaxing day by the water.
      • Rock Climbing: For the adventurous, Jackson Falls is known for its climbing spots. One camper noted, "Great place to backwoods camp. It can be busy on the weekends and can be difficult to find an open site at times."

      What campers like:

      • Cleanliness: Campers appreciate well-maintained facilities. At Shawnee Forest Campground, one visitor said, "The camp was clean and well maintained. The staff are very friendly and helpful."
      • Seclusion: Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. A reviewer at Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs mentioned, "Very quiet and peaceful," highlighting the campground's charm.
      • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful landscapes. At Giant City State Park Campground, one guest shared, "The shorter trails in the park were beautiful even in the winter."

      What you should know:

      Tips for camping with families:

      • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities. Shawnee Forest Campground has paved trails, making it easier for families to explore together. One reviewer said, "The trails are paved so we had a nice area to walk."
      • Plan for Activities: Bring games or outdoor toys. A family at Giant City State Park Campground enjoyed the playground, stating, "The playground was good."
      • Pack Snacks: Keep everyone fueled for adventures. A camper at Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs mentioned, "Great hiking and scenery and it was very quiet at night."

      Tips from RVers:

      • Check Site Sizes: Not all sites are level or spacious. A reviewer at Gun Creek noted, "Not all spots are flat. Clean facilities."
      • Reserve Early: Popular spots fill up fast. A camper at South Sandusky Campground mentioned, "All campsites are reservable but reserved campsites are not marked on the post when you arrive."
      • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds lack certain amenities. A visitor at Pine Ridge said, "There is no sanitary dump station, and the water spigot does not have a way to hook up a hose to fill your tank."

      Camping near Shawnee National Forest, Illinois, is a great way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular RV campsite near Shawnee National Forest?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular RV campground near Shawnee National Forest is Birdsville Riverside RV Park with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

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

        TheDyrt.com has all 94 RV camping locations near Shawnee National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.