Tent campsites near Olive Branch, Illinois offer primitive to semi-developed options within the Shawnee National Forest region. Elevation ranges between 300-400 feet with rolling forested terrain creating natural shelter. Winter overnight temperatures can drop below freezing, while summer humidity makes proper site selection crucial for comfort.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Girardeau Conservation Area provides primitive tent sites with access to fishing. "Nice little primitive campground with about 8 small spots. Has a nice sized lake good fishing if you are using a boat, or kayak," notes Matthew G.
Creek exploration: At Apple Creek Conservation Area, campers can access both tent sites and water recreation. "Apple Creek is a very short distance north on the gravel road. The creek is a good place to fish and you can launch a kayak the boat ramp," according to Ralph S.
Climbing limestone bluffs: Backpack Campground at Ferne Clyffe State Park provides walk-in tent sites with access to vertical recreation. "There are several limestone bluffs, great for climbing, naturally forested woodlands, cliff caves, and several small waterfalls," explains Joel R.
What campers like
Multiple trail options: The variety of trail difficulty levels at Ferne Clyffe appeals to hikers of all abilities. "Nice trails for different hiking skill sets," says Tye K. who stayed at Backpack Campground.
Site seclusion: Dutchman Lake Camp offers tent campers privacy while maintaining easy access. "Beautiful little spots as you come in. Quiet and easy to get too," reports J A., who also noted "Verizon works well" for those needing connectivity.
Convenient location: Tent campsites provide natural settings while remaining accessible. Jonathan H. described Dutchman Lake as a "Great little spot right off the interstate. Lots of nice scenery and decent fishing."
What you should know
Restroom facilities vary: Toilet access differs significantly between campgrounds. At Turkey Ridge Campground, TJ V. noted, "There are 'out houses' close by. Although they were pretty bad my buddy said 'storm of flies came shooting out the hole like a tornado.'"
Campsite density: Some primitive campgrounds have sites positioned close together. Lake Girardeau Conservation Area tent sites offer limited privacy according to Kim R.: "Each campsite is very close to each other so there is not a lot of privacy. It is usually not very busy though."
Firewood availability: Some campgrounds have limited natural firewood despite permitting fires. Tye K. observed at Backpack Campground: "Only issue I found at all was firewood is surprisingly difficult to come by."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Whippoorwill Lake Campground Resort offers tent sites with beach access. "Lake has sandy beaches. Small playset in the water for kids," notes Brasley C.
Trail selection for children: When camping with younger hikers, choose appropriate routes. At Turkey Ridge Campground, David H. suggests, "Rebman trail is good for anyone including little kids."
Consider cabin alternatives: For families wanting an entry-level experience, some campgrounds offer structure options. Whippoorwill Lake offers "a double bed and also had a set of bunks. So plenty of room," according to Brasley C.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: When camping in an RV at Turkey Ridge, choose your site carefully. David H. advises, "#35 is a nice location. Large yard and not super close to other campers. #53 is smaller but very private."
Electrical troubleshooting: Power issues can occur at established sites. Debra B. noted at Turkey Ridge Campground, "On arrival, the electric wouldn't work. Apparently a breaker was involved. Camp host fixed it."
Campground timing: Some campgrounds experience high usage during certain periods. David H. observed, "Camped end of April and park was full" at Turkey Ridge Campground, suggesting booking ahead during popular seasons.
