Camping opportunities near Stonefort, Illinois cover diverse terrain within Shawnee National Forest, situated on weathered bedrock dating back 300 million years. Elevations range from 350 to 1,064 feet across the region, creating microclimates that affect individual camping areas. Winter temperatures typically hover between 25-45°F while summer brings sustained heat with daily highs regularly exceeding 90°F during July and August.
What to do
Trail exploration: 3-mile Lake Glendale hike: Lake Glendale Recreation Area offers a comprehensive trail system circling the entire lake. "There is an easy 3 mile hike around the lake and is easily accessed directly from a number of the sites," notes one visitor who appreciated the lake trail's accessibility.
Natural swimming holes: spring and summer only: The clear pools at Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs provide cooling relief during hot months. According to a camper, "Just around the corner (or down the trail at the start of camp) is a network of hiking trails. They scurry around cliffs, falls and ravines. We found small pools perfect for a summer dip."
Rock formations and climbing: expert required: Jackson Falls features unique sandstone bluffs popular with experienced climbers. A visitor explained, "This place is popular with climbers, but I'm not one and had a rough time locating this place. The roads weren't marked the same way they are on the website's map, and the trailheads are confusing as well."
What campers like
Privacy in primitive areas: non-electric sites: The secluded tent camping areas at Turkey Ridge Campground provide more natural camping experiences. "Spots are pretty dam close to each other. There is camping you can walk off to. We stayed for 1 night at the Turkey Ridge, so we stayed closer to the parking. Was only 1 other group camping on a Wednesday," explains one camper who found midweek solitude.
Night sky viewing: minimal light pollution: Rural locations like Pharoah Campground deliver exceptional stargazing opportunities. As one camper described their experience: "The rock formations are surreal and shoulder season is so quiet! We will be back as the hiking is awesome."
Wildlife observation: spring and fall peak seasons: Deer Ridge Campground offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. A visitor shared: "Once darkness hit the fireflies in the forest were magnificent!"
What you should know
Campsite conditions: ground cover varies: Many campsites contain problematic plant species. At Jackson Falls, a camper warned: "Bring everything you need, there is no water source and bring lots of wood. We scavenged wood from the hills around but ultimately had to leave and purchase wood."
Seasonal water levels: check before arrival: Stream and waterfall flow varies dramatically by season. One visitor to Lake Glendale noted: "We went during a dry spell and there was no running water at the falls! Still had a blast there though!"
First-come basis: weekday arrival recommended: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak periods. A camper at Redbud Campground explained: "There are a few vault toilets scattered around that are ok but not the best we've seen. A hand pump for water is near the garbage cans. We found plenty of empty sites but people were starting to fill them in. I imagine it might get full for the weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: limited availability: Shawnee Forest Campground offers one of the better play areas. One visitor noted its unique layout: "Unique campground in that it is on a former golf course. Has the old golf cart paths as walking/biking paths!"
Water safety: supervision essential: Swimming areas exist but conditions vary. At Oak Point, one family mentioned: "We were the only campers in our loop for the entire stay. This is a very clean, well maintained campground, the hosts were very friendly and helpful."
Bug preparation: comprehensive protection needed: Insect issues affect all local campgrounds. A family camping at Bell Smith Springs reported: "Great hiking and great camp site. No shower but the springs offer a refreshing soak after a long day of hiking. Water is easily accessible and clean. Definitely lots of ticks but you're in nature so it's a given."
Tips from RVers
Road access: scout ahead for larger rigs: Gravel roads with steep sections challenge larger vehicles in many locations. At Jackson Falls, one RVer advised: "We run a 28ft RV and were 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."
Site leveling: blocks required: Most campgrounds feature uneven terrain. An RVer at Dixon Springs State Park reported: "Our reserved site #6 was so sloped for our 24' C class that we had to give up on it and move to a vacant more level spot."
Hookup limitations: prepare for self-sufficiency: Full hookups are rare at campsites near Stonefort, Illinois. An experienced RVer shared about Oak Point: "Spacious, clean open campground with little privacy. Well kept bathrooms and water pumps throughout."
