Dispersed camping options near Stonefort, Illinois range across the Shawnee National Forest region where elevation varies from 350 to 1,050 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with hot, humid summers reaching 90°F and mild winters rarely dropping below 20°F. Camping areas often feature sandstone outcroppings and second-growth oak-hickory forests that create natural windbreaks at many sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Dutchman Lake Camp, campers can access fishing in the adjacent lake, which one visitor described as offering "Great little spot right off the interstate. Lots of nice scenery and decent fishing."
Hiking exploration: The River to River Trail passes through Camp Cadiz, providing access to multi-day backpacking routes. A visitor noted, "The hiking trails that headed out from the camp were wonderful. We even hiked down the forest road and found a hidden cemetery tucked away."
Rock climbing: Limestone bluffs throughout the region provide climbing opportunities, particularly at Ferne Clyffe State Park. One camper mentioned, "There are several limestone bluffs, great for climbing, naturally forested woodlands, cliff caves, and several small waterfalls."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer prime opportunities to spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species. One camper at Camp Cadiz observed their campground filled with turkey hunters who "started generators at 3 in the morning to get ready to head out for turkey."
What campers like
Natural water features: Many tent camping sites near Stonefort, Illinois provide access to water features. A camper at Tower Rock Campground shared, "Clean, quiet, and great river views! Campground is smaller but the sites are spread out well, most have fire ring with grill stand and table."
Secluded camping spots: Primitive sites offer privacy without neighboring campers. At Dutchman Lake Camp, a visitor noted, "Beautiful little spots as you come in. Quiet and easy to get too."
Accessibility to trails: Quick access to hiking paths rates highly among campers. At Backpack Campground in Ferne Clyffe State Park, one camper appreciated "secluded, wooded, and within a pit toilet and water source. Make sure you take time to explore the waterfall and other short trails nearby."
Stargazing opportunities: The limited light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. A visitor to Camp Cadiz reported, "Very dark at night, bring your headlamp. Good times to be had."
What you should know
Water availability varies: While some campgrounds provide potable water, others require campers to bring their own. At Turkey Ridge Campground, "Water available to fill your holding tank and in couple of locations in campground."
Toilet facilities differ: Many sites offer only vault or pit toilets with varying levels of maintenance. One camper at Turkey Ridge noted, "The 'outhouses' close by... were pretty bad my buddy said 'storm of flies came shooting out the hole like a tornado.'"
Cell service limitations: Signal strength varies significantly across the region. At Dutchman Lake Camp, a camper mentioned "Verizon works well," while at Saline County State Conservation Area, visitors reported, "We had no cell service, although a quick trip to the ridge behind the campsite (1-2 minute drive)."
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds close during winter or flood seasons. A visitor to Tower Rock found, "We drove down to camp here and found this campground closed. We walked in past the locked gate to scout it out and there was a line of debris left behind from when the river was higher."
Tips for camping with families
Trail difficulty ratings: Choose family-appropriate hiking routes based on distance and terrain. At Saline County State Conservation Area, campers reported, "We also hiked Garden of the Gods and Burden Falls in the Shawnee National Forest. The hikes were great."
Site spacing considerations: Family groups should select areas with adequate space between sites. At Turkey Ridge, one camper noted site #35 is "a nice location. Large yard and not super close to other campers. #53 is smaller but very private."
Kid-friendly attractions: Several natural features appeal specifically to children. One camper at Turkey Ridge shared, "There are lots of well maintained trails to hike... hikes that include bluffs, caves, creeks, etc. Our favorite is Hawk's Cave Trail. It's an easy hike and the kids explored the caves for hours!"
Weather preparedness: Summer camping requires heat management strategies for families. The Rebman trail at Ferne Clyffe State Park is "good for anyone including little kids," making it ideal for family outings regardless of hiking experience.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most sites near Stonefort provide primitive camping without electric or water hookups. One RVer at Turkey Ridge mentioned, "We stayed 3 nights and it was awesome" despite initial electric issues that the camp host fixed.
Road accessibility challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access routes for larger vehicles. A visitor to North Marcum Day Use Area appreciated that "the Corp of Engineering's really take care of these camp grounds, very clean, most have new showers."
Dust considerations: Proximity to gravel roads affects some sites. An RVer at Camp Cadiz observed, "Every vehicle that went by generated dust which then coated everything in our camp. If you come here, we suggest taking the site that is furthest from the road."
RV size limitations: Most tent camping areas near Stonefort accommodate small to medium rigs only. At Turkey Ridge, site #35 was noted as having a "Large yard and not super close to other campers," making it suitable for smaller RVs with room to set up outdoor living space.
