Best Campgrounds near Olive Branch, IL

Camping near Olive Branch, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the trails at Giant City State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The shorter trails in the park were beautiful even in the winter," making it a great spot year-round.
• Fishing: Head to Reelfoot Lake State Park Campground for some fishing. A reviewer noted, "Kayaking the lake is a really awesome activity," perfect for those who enjoy being on the water.
• Wildlife Watching: At Jackson Falls, you can enjoy the sounds of nature. One camper shared, "It’s an interesting thing to hear what nature does when people aren’t around."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Shawnee Forest Campground. One review stated, "The facilities were clean and very nice," which is a big plus for many.
• Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs. A visitor mentioned, "Sites were spacious," making it comfortable for families and groups.
• Scenic Views: The views at Columbus-Belmont State Park are a hit. One camper said, "Gorgeous sunsets over the Mississippi River," highlighting the beauty of the area.

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Turkey Ridge Campground, have basic facilities. A camper noted, "The bathhouses were gross," so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
• Busy Weekends: If you plan to visit Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground, be aware that it can get crowded. One reviewer advised, "Recommend only visiting Monday thru Thursday," to avoid the crowds.
• Road Conditions: Some campgrounds, like Jackson Falls, have rough access roads. A visitor mentioned, "The road to get into the primitive camp area is long, and just a little bumpy," so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Giant City State Park Campground, where one family enjoyed, "The playground was good," making it a great choice for kids.
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One camper at Turkey Ridge Campground said, "The trails include everything — bluffs from above and below," which can keep the whole family entertained.
• Pack Snacks: Bring plenty of snacks for the kids. A reviewer at Shawnee Forest Campground mentioned, "The staff are very friendly and helpful," so you can ask for local snack spots if needed.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the sites at Shawnee Forest Campground. One RV traveler noted, "Big sites for our 40ft fifth wheel," which is essential for larger rigs.
• Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups, like Giant City State Park Campground, where a visitor appreciated, "The campsites, fire pits and pit toilets were well maintained."
• Be Prepared for Crowds: If you're heading to popular spots like Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground, plan to arrive early. One camper mentioned, "Very busy on Fridays and weekends," so getting there early can help secure a good spot.

Camping near Olive Branch, Illinois, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!