Southern Illinois offers equestrian camping near Simpson, Illinois within the Shawnee National Forest region. The area sits at elevations between 400-600 feet with limestone bluffs and sandstone formations throughout the landscape. Summer temperatures average 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder conditions for trail riding and camping.
What to do
Explore trail systems: Access the Red Cedar Trail from Giant City State Park Campground, which offers a 6-mile loop hike. "Lots of amazing, beautiful hikes in this park, especially if you're into bluffs and large boulders. Easy drive to many other picturesque and unique parks," notes Kyle K.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line at Dutchman Lake Camp where primitive camping is available. "Great little spot right off the interstate. Lots of nice scenery and decent fishing," reports Jonathan H. This dispersed camping area provides a more secluded experience than established campgrounds.
Rock climbing options: Climbers can find routes in the area. According to Josh M. at Giant City State Park, "For climbers, there is a ton of nearby trad and sport climbing. The main wall stays wet for a while so if it has recently rained you may need to find somewhere else."
What campers like
Diverse terrain: The Shawnee National Forest region features unusual geological formations. Anton T. notes that at Deer Ridge Campground, "A site of interest nearby is the Garden of the Gods wilderness, which 300 million years ago was the bottom of a sea. The whole area was spared by the glacier activity."
Wildlife viewing: Evening hours bring special natural displays. "Once darkness hit the fireflies in the forest were magnificent!" says Stephanie S. at Deer Ridge Campground.
Water features: Several campgrounds offer lake or pond access. At Shawnee Forest Campground, Jessica R. mentions, "Pond for fishing so bring your poles. It's catch and release."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis. Tracie E. notes at Crab Orchard Lake, "All sites are FC/FS. Full hookups are in Loop B & it was full. Overall the campground was full but not very many people around. Appears many locals take spots on the weekends & then hold onto them during the week."
Site characteristics: Campground terrain differs throughout the region. MickandKarla W. observed at Shawnee Forest Campground, "Our site was not level and with all the rain we had, there were water puddles at the steps. There are some nice sites in this CG but we were not offered one of the better ones."
Trail marking issues: Some hiking paths lack adequate signage. Hannah H. mentioned about the Equestrian Campground at Ferne Clyffe, "My only complain is the trails in this park are not clearly marked and they do not offer maps you can take with you."
Ranger
