Shawnee National Forest spans 289,000 acres in southern Illinois, with elevations ranging from 300 to 700 feet above sea level. The climate features hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters, though freezing temperatures aren't uncommon between November and February. Tent camping in this region can be muddy in spring with high rainfall amounts, while fall offers cooler temperatures and colorful foliage from late September through mid-November.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 3 miles of interconnected trails at Ferne Clyffe State Park let hikers explore impressive limestone formations. According to one camper at Turkey Ridge Campground, "There are several hiking trails that looked pretty... We would definitely stay again" while another notes there are "lots of well maintained trails to hike... hikes that include bluffs, caves, creeks."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes within 15-minute drive of camping areas provide good fishing spots. At Dutchman Lake Camp, one camper mentioned "Great little spot right off the interstate. Lots of nice scenery and decent fishing." The area includes several small bodies of water suitable for shore fishing without requiring a boat.
Rock climbing: Multiple limestone bluffs throughout the forest offer technical climbing routes. As a camper at Backpack Campground reported, "Ferne Clyffe State Park is in the Shawnee National Forrest near Goreville, IL. There are several limestone bluffs, great for climbing, naturally forested woodlands, cliff caves, and several small waterfalls."
What campers like
Spacious tent sites: Sites large enough for multiple tents at Camp Cadiz provide room to spread out. A camper noted, "The spaces are wide open and big for multiple tents. There is well water, a bathroom (open septic tank) for pit and picnic table at each site."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer separation between camping spots. Tower Rock Campground has sites that are "spread out well, most have fire ring with grill stand and table, firewood available to gather onsite," according to one reviewer. This provides a more secluded experience even at established campgrounds.
Quiet camping conditions: Lower visitation in off-peak seasons creates peaceful settings. A Dutchman Lake Camp visitor shared, "Beautiful little spots as you come in. Quiet and easy to get too." Similarly, a Turkey Ridge camper noted, "It was nice and peaceful. The sites are large and include a cooking grate. It was easy to find firewood without having to go very far."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Plan for communication gaps throughout the forest, particularly in valleys and remote campsites. A visitor to Camp Cadiz advised, "Not much phone signal in these parts so bring the old fashion paper map." Another camper at Saline County State Conservation Area mentioned, "We had no cell service, although a quick trip to the ridge behind the campsite (1-2 minute drive)" restored connections.
Seasonal flooding risks: Riverside camping areas may close during high water periods. A Tower Rock Campground camper observed, "Right on the river so may be closed during flood seasons." Another visitor noted finding "a line of debris left behind from when the river was higher" indicating water level fluctuations.
Local wildlife awareness: Snakes and insects are common throughout the camping areas. As one camper at Tower Rock mentioned, it's just "you and the woods and river (and bugs and snakes)." Another camper cautioned about poison ivy: "It was easy to find firewood without having to go very far, becareful there is a good amount of poison ivy."
Tips for camping with families
Shorter trails for younger hikers: Several 1-mile loops are suitable for children. A visitor to Turkey Ridge Campground recommended, "Our favorite is Hawk's Cave Trail. It's an easy hike and the kids explored the caves for hours!" Another camper mentioned the nearby "Rebman trail is good for anyone including little kids."
Best campgrounds for amenities: Sites with showers and flush toilets make family camping more comfortable. At Saline County State Conservation Area, one camper shared, "This was a great campground with fantastic views of the lake. We also hiked Garden of the Gods and Burden Falls in the Shawnee National Forest."
Dealing with wildlife encounters: Keep food secure and teach children basic safety. One family camping at Turkey Ridge Campground reported, "It was really neat to listen to all the different species throughout the night. Overall the grounds are quite nice."
Tips from RVers
Generator policies: Rules vary by campground with some prohibiting use or limiting hours. A Camp Cadiz visitor noted one challenge: "Camp filled up with hunters who started generators at 3 in the morning to get ready to head out for turkey."
Road condition warnings: Many access roads are unpaved and can be challenging after rain. A camper heading to Tower Rock observed, "We drove in through Shawnee national forest. The road went through some small towns with gas and food but not much else." Another visitor warned about Camp Cadiz: "It's down a gravel road a bit but nothing too hard to find."
Water and dump station locations: Plan refilling stops as many campgrounds have limited facilities. According to a visitor at Dutchman Lake, "Beautiful spot with easy access and not far off the highway," making it convenient for RVers needing to access services while still enjoying remote camping.
