Camping options near Jonesboro, Illinois range across Shawnee National Forest's 280,000 acres of public land where elevations vary between 350-1,064 feet. The region experiences all four seasons distinctly, with summer temperatures regularly reaching 90°F and winter lows below freezing. Both primitive and developed camping areas sit amid hardwood forests where oak and hickory predominate, creating seasonal color changes and wildlife viewing opportunities.
What to do
Hiking forest trails: Giant City State Park offers varied hiking options for different skill levels. "The Trillium Trail is a little more rugged for those who prefer less crowded, slightly tougher trails," notes Shana D., who visited in April. Many trails interconnect, allowing customized routes through distinctive geological features.
Rock climbing spots: Several campgrounds provide access to established climbing routes. At Giant City State Park Campground, Josh M. reports, "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."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes around Jonesboro support active fishing. At Crab Orchard Lake Crab Orchard NWR, campers catch catfish and crappie regularly. "Lots of hot water" in the showers makes post-fishing cleanup comfortable according to Tracie E., who stayed in early April.
Wildlife observation: Forest campgrounds offer habitat for numerous species. "Lots of deer and turkey!" reports Garrett F. about South Marcum Campground. The campground's position on Rend Lake creates natural viewing areas where wildlife congregate at dawn and dusk.
What campers like
Access to water activities: Lakeside camping ranks highly among visitor preferences. "Each site has electric (a plus), and every site looked well maintained. There are quite a few sites on the lake or with lake views, and these seemed to be the most coveted sites," writes Annie C. about Gun Creek.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain serviceable restrooms and shower houses. "The bathrooms were a short walk across the road and up the slope from site 30," notes Susan L., who appreciated the convenience despite not using the facilities during her stay.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer adequate space between camping areas. Joel R. writes about South Marcum Campground: "The sites are set up to provide some privacy, and are not right on top of each other," making the camping experience more peaceful.
Evening atmosphere: Sunsets create particularly memorable experiences according to multiple reviewers. "Amazing sunsets over beautiful Rend Lake!" exclaims Kelly B., highlighting the natural backdrop that enhances evening camping activities at South Marcum.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds accept reservations while others operate on first-come, first-served basis. At Oak Point Campground, "No reservations though so you'll want to get there ahead of time to ensure yourself a spot," advises J K.
Seasonal maintenance impacts: Trail and facility upkeep varies by season and may affect camping experience. Susan L. encountered morning maintenance: "Early in the morning the sawing and woodchipping began. To make matters worse it was windy. All the woodchopping and sawdust was flying in the air which required us to close windows."
Poison ivy concerns: Natural hazards exist in wooded areas. Rachel C. warns: "Unfortunately, there was SO MUCH poison ivy that we couldn't play in the woods" at Oak Point Campground, limiting exploration for families with children.
Site levelness varies significantly: RVers should check specific site details before booking. "Absolutely must check how level the spots are before you book, as lots of sites are over 4 inch incline," advises a reviewer at Gun Creek, noting smaller rigs handle the slopes better.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select campgrounds with dedicated play areas. At Perryville RV Resort, "the giant trampoline looked like it would be my daughters favorite thing if she were with us," writes Jamey W. The campground also features a swimming pool better than most hotels.
Water activities for children: Lakes offer swimming and boating opportunities. "The nearby beach is available to enjoy during the summer" at Oak Point according to J K., though Rachel C. notes there's a $5 per person fee which "felt excessive for what it was."
Educational wildlife opportunities: Camping trips create natural learning experiences. "We love tent camping at South Sandusky. Many of the sites are right on the lake and the sunrise and sunsets are always gorgeous," explains Gina J., adding that bathroom cleanliness makes family stays more comfortable.
Consider road noise: Some campgrounds have nearby highway sounds. Jessica T. reports about Shawnee Forest Campground: "A little noisy at night with the interstate in the distance but we'd expected that," suggesting noise-sensitive families should select interior sites.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement matters: RVers should note utility locations when selecting sites. MickandKarla W. shared about Shawnee Forest Campground: "The water and electric (50/30/20 AMP) are at the back of the gravel pad. There are two sewer hookups, which was nice."
Know the road conditions: Access routes affect larger rigs. "The gravel roads are slightly narrow with some trees but we did not have any issues getting to site 21," reports one RVer, showing the importance of understanding approach roads.
Cell service availability: Connectivity varies by location. "We got two bars on Verizon. Each of the bath houses have a washer and dryer," notes a visitor to Shawnee Forest Campground, providing practical information for those needing to stay connected.
Site selection strategy: Experienced RVers recommend researching specific sites. "There are some nice sites in this CG but we were not offered one of the better ones even though there were plenty of sites open in the upper 26-50 site area," advises an RVer, suggesting requesting specific site numbers when possible.
