Dispersed camping near Simpson, Illinois primarily centers in the Shawnee National Forest with elevations ranging from 350 to 1,000 feet. The region receives approximately 45 inches of annual rainfall, creating seasonal water features throughout the forest. Weather patterns shift dramatically between seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing.
What to do
Rock climbing at Jackson Falls: Located within Shawnee National Forest, this area offers over 60 climbing routes on sandstone bluffs. "Beautiful secluded spot. Careful if wet. Grave Road getting there was a bit rough for my Ram Promaster. Hill down to trail head could get slick if wet weather," notes Jeremy R. about Jackson Falls.
Swimming at Lake Glendale: The recreation area includes a designated beach with swimming access for a $5 fee per person. "A nearby beach is available to enjoy during the summer as well as hiking trails. While this campground is certainly off the beaten path it is perfect for those that want to get away and enjoy some quiet time," explains a camper at Lake Glendale Recreation Area.
Hiking the natural rock formations: Garden of the Gods offers unique geological features. "Stunning! The rock formations are surreal and shoulder season is so quiet! We will be back as the hiking is awesome," reports ellen about her experience at this popular destination.
What campers like
Waterfall viewing opportunities: Bell Smith Springs provides scenic water features when rainfall is adequate. "This is one of my favorite spots. 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. 10 minute walk or 2 minute drive to the river where you can hike, swim or wade," shares Kate B. from Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs.
Lakeside camping spots: Several sites at Oak Point back directly onto Lake Glendale. "Site 23 backs up to lake. Short walk to clean restrooms. Will come back," notes Thomas K. about Oak Point Campground. The lake allows electric motors only, creating a quieter experience.
Well-maintained facilities: Many campers appreciate the upkeep at area campgrounds. "Built on an Old Golf Course. We'd seen signs for Shawnee Forest Campground (CG) many times as we headed out and back from our St. Louis home base and wanted to check this CG out. We followed our GPS to the clearly marked CG entrance but our GPS showed we still had about a half mile to go," explains MickandKarla W.
What you should know
Creek crossings can be challenging: Several campgrounds require navigating water crossings that vary by season. "Car camped without any issues but it's worth mentioning that I didn't have T-Mobile cellphone reception and the bathroom was a bit dirty. Also 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," reports Mark F.
Poison ivy presence: Most wooded areas contain significant poison ivy growth. "We stayed 2 nights at site 6 in May. It was a roomy, wooded site with water and electric for $22/night. Unfortunately, there was SO MUCH poison ivy that we couldn't play in the woods. But we enjoyed our stay on the beautiful lake!" shares Rachel C.
Seasonal water levels affect activities: Many water features depend on recent rainfall. "We went during a dry spell and there was no running water at the falls! Still had a blast there though!" notes Casie A.
Tips for camping with families
Check for shower facilities: Not all campgrounds offer showers. "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," explains Jon H. from Deer Ridge Campground.
Look for dedicated play areas: Some campgrounds provide playground equipment. "The concessionaire stocks ice and wood, folks drive nice and slow for the kids, and there is a little playground for the kids to play on as well. Each campsite is surrounded by trees and it is nice and quiet," notes Chelsea D.
Visit during firefly season: Early summer offers natural light shows. "Clean open campground with little privacy. Well kept bathrooms and water pumps throughout. Short trail leads from campground to the limestone cliffs. Once darkness hit the fireflies in the forest were magnificent!" shares Stephanie S.
Tips from RVers
Check site levelness before committing: Many campsites require significant leveling. "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," explains Tonya B. about Shawnee Forest Campground.
Water access limitations: Most sites don't offer full hookups. "We run a 28ft RV and we're 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. We opted to turn around and stay at the main parking lot which is VERY accessible," notes tom L.
Cell service variability: Coverage differs significantly between campgrounds. "This is a little gem of a refuge within the Shawnee NF - about 30min from Marion, down a beautiful country road before nestling among the trees around the lake. The drive is paved/gravel the whole way, so very easily drivable for anyone in anything. Bring bug spray - horseflies and ticks. 1 bar verizon at camp, can get up to 3 bars within the area," reports Twan M.
