Trail of Tears State Park Campground offers several camping options for visitors to Thebes, Illinois. The park features both primitive tent sites and pull-through spots with electric hookups overlooking the Mississippi River. Camping elevations in the region range from approximately 335 to 650 feet above sea level, with most established sites situated on flat terrain near water features. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, making early spring through late fall the primary camping season.
What to do
Hiking trails with varied difficulty: Trail of Tears State Park features multiple hiking options that showcase the area's geology and plant life. "Great for hiking! If you want an easy hike it's available but there are an abundance of intermediate trail and a beautiful quarry! Be sure to pay attention to trails because lack of trail markers," notes Livia W. about Trail of Tears State Park Campground.
Fishing in multiple ponds: The region offers several fishing opportunities across conservation areas and state parks. "General Watkins has a good amount of ponds (great fishing) and has a few good walking/ small hiking trails," reports Matthew G. about the conservation area at General Watkins Conservation Area.
River watching: Mississippi River views provide opportunities to observe commercial river traffic. "One of the best camping views of the mississippi river! The campsite overlooks the mighty mississippi river and oh what a view it is, watching tugboats move barges up and down," explains Chad H., who camped at Trail of Tears State Park.
What campers like
Quiet camping experiences: While some sites can get crowded, General Watkins Conservation Area maintains a peaceful atmosphere with limited sites. "This is a perfect spot for a pass though. 3 back in spots with fire pits and tables. Road coming into the camp ground can get a little rough depending on season, but it's gravel," writes Matthew G.
Dog-friendly spaces: Several campgrounds near Thebes welcome pets, including Horseshoe Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area. "Gorgeous place big beautiful cypress and tupelo trees. Shaded spots and laid back atmosphere. The park workers do a amazing job at upkeep," notes Frank B. about Horseshoe Lake Alexander County, a dog-friendly option with shaded campsites.
Hammock camping options: Some parks accommodate alternative sleeping arrangements. "Hammock camping allowed 👍 not far off the interstate beautiful views of Ol' Man River!" mentions Michael S. about his stay at Trail of Tears State Park.
What you should know
Train noise impacts sleep: The railroad tracks near the Mississippi River create noise disturbances at some campgrounds. "Train goes next to campground and barges are loud when they come through on the river😀," Tina C. reports about Trail of Tears State Park.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Bean Ridge Pond Campground provides basic camping without amenities. "Small little pond with 2 primitive campsites. It's very quiet and peaceful. Some signs of litter, but mostly clean. Saw a few deer during my stay. No facilities, pack in-pack out. 1/2 mile gravel road leads to sites," explains Dave N.
Seasonal water levels affect access: The Thebes area camping experiences change significantly with rainfall and river levels. "In late October there was no water, but several sites have full hook ups. Discounts for seniors, military, handicapped for state residents. All others pay $20 for weekday," mentions Tod S. regarding Horseshoe Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for hot days: During summer months, swimming areas provide relief from heat. "Lake is more of a swamp with cypress trees, very pretty. Showers dated but clean. They are multiple stalls," shares Alison S. about Horseshoe Lake Alexander County.
Pet-friendly areas with exercise space: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Thebes offer designated spaces for pets. "Had a nice fenced in area for dogs to run and play at," notes its the Catalina wine mixer T. about The Landing Point RV Park.
Geocaching opportunities: Some parks offer additional activities beyond standard hiking. "We love the hiking trails, and the convenience of the lake. The last time we stayed, we were worried about something that sounded big in the woods just past our tent...we're still not sure what it was! An added bonus...there are some really great geocaches in the park!!" shares Barbara L. from Trail of Tears State Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven sites at some campgrounds. "Our site was not level and with all the rain we had, there were water puddles at the steps," reports MickandKarla W. about Shawnee Forest Campground.
Hookup positions: Utility connections vary by site and can require additional equipment. "Electric was not working at some sites and one post had hookups for two sites. No sewer, there is a dump station down the road," advises marcella from Horseshoe Lake, noting that travelers should check connections before setup.
Cellular connectivity: Mobile service varies throughout the area. "We got 3 bars on Verizon. Each of the bath houses have a washer and dryer. Our site was not level and with all the rain we had, there were water puddles at the steps," MickandKarla W. notes about Shawnee Forest Campground, helpful information for those needing to stay connected.
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