Camping options near Stonefort, Illinois range from primitive tent sites to full-hookup facilities scattered throughout the surrounding Shawnee National Forest region. The area sits at approximately 400-500 feet elevation with rolling hills and forested terrain. Winter temperatures typically hover between 20-40°F while summer months can reach 85-95°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking diverse terrain: Multiple trails at Pine Ridge offer accessible hiking experiences for various skill levels. "The 2 mile loop road that goes around the whole campground and down to a beach access point for a gorgeous lake was a perfect little walk with the dog. Spectacular," notes one visitor who appreciated the campground's proximity to water features.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide direct lake access for anglers. At South Marcum Campground, campers enjoy fishing from their sites. "Great campground in the lake. Clean bathhouses," reports a visitor who appreciated the abundant wildlife, noting they saw "lots of deer and turkey!"
Seasonal swimming: Lake beaches near camping areas offer summer swimming options. "There is a beach, but you have to pay $5/person which felt excessive for what it was," explains a camper from Oak Point Campground regarding the swimming facilities. Beaches typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend depending on weather conditions.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Shawnee Forest Campground offers room for larger camping setups. "The sites are spacious and have picnic tables and fire rings. Full hookups is a plus," notes one camper who appreciated the campground's former golf course layout, adding that "it has the old golf cart paths as walking/biking paths!"
Proximity to natural attractions: Oak Point Campground provides convenient access to multiple destinations. A visitor explains, "Location is everything and this is well in the middle of a great area in Shawnee National Forest. Garden of the gods, Bell Smith springs, Ferne State park, and on and on. You can spend a week here and not see everything."
Lake views: South Sandusky Campground offers waterfront sites with dramatic vistas. "We love tent camping at South Sandusky. Many of the site are right on the lake and the sunrise and sunsets are always gorgeous," shares a camper who appreciates the consistently clean facilities despite occasional insects.
What you should know
First-come availability: Some campgrounds don't accept reservations. "Sites are first come and there are no reservations taken. During the week, no problem. Weekends would be iffy," warns an Oak Point Campground visitor about securing spots during peak times.
Varying hookup options: Crab Orchard Lake offers diverse site types but availability fluctuates. "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," explains a camper who stayed for five nights.
Budget considerations: Several campgrounds offer reasonable rates compared to private options. A camper at Pine Ridge noted, "We will definitely stay here again. And it was only $10 a night!!!" Most public campgrounds in the area range from $10-22 per night depending on hookups and amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Giant City State Park Campground offers activities beyond hiking. "The campground is clean and maintained. Some sites are gravel and some are asphalt," reports a visitor who recommends exploring beyond the campground, adding, "check out the Lodge for dinner one night and climb to the top of the water tower observation deck for some amazing views!"
Swimming beaches: South Sandusky provides water recreation for children. "We love the large beach. The campsites have a nice set up and are a decent size. The kids loved the playground. There were kids everywhere and everyone was very friendly!" shares an enthusiastic family camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer chances to observe local animals. "A great spot with decent proximity to a lot of nature," notes a camper from Shawnee Forest Campground who stayed during Labor Day weekend, mentioning the "super friendly camp host" and "tranquil" atmosphere despite being conveniently located off the interstate.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: South Marcum sites require adjustment for larger rigs. "Great camp ground.. 50 amp service, some with water and some with Full hookup... Dump stations are EZ access on the way out," reports a camper who appreciated the clean bathrooms and overall experience at Rend Lake.
Precise positioning needed: South Sandusky requires careful maneuvering. "The loop has low-sloping ditches on both sides of the road, so precise backing is needed to land on the asphalt pad," explains a visitor to the Dogwood loop who appreciates the full-hookup options available in that section of the campground.
Site selection strategy: For glamping near Stonefort, Illinois at Little Lusk Trail Lodge & Campground, advance planning helps secure the best spots. "Campsites are spacious and can accommodate very large rigs. High lines behind sites. Stalls can be reserved," notes a visitor highlighting the equestrian-friendly facilities.
