Map showing campground location near Kinmundy, Illinois

Camper submitted image from Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area

Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area

Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area operates seasonally from mid-May through late December, offering 115 sites across three camping loops with full hookups for RVs up to 70 feet. Only one loop accepts reservations, while the other two operate on a first-come basis. The campground sits adjacent to a 585-acre lake with multiple access points including drive-in, walk-in, hike-in, and boat-in options.

Sites are notably spacious with good separation between neighbors. Most include fire pits and picnic tables, though drainage varies significantly across the property. Matt M. noted that "the area around our site had really poor drainage" after heavy storms. The bathhouses provide basic facilities that campers consistently describe as clean, and abundant firewood is typically available throughout the campground from tree management activities.

The lake accommodates both motorboats and kayaks, with a marina accessible via walking trails from the camping areas. A swim beach operates without staffing, making it free but minimally maintained. Hiking trails connect to the main trail system, though several visitors mention the paths could use better marking. Cell service remains limited throughout the area, with AT&T providing only 1-2 bars of LTE coverage.

Campsite signage presents challenges for after-dark arrivals, and the property's remote location means the nearest supplies are in Kinmundy, about six miles away. For additional camping options in the region, see sites near Kinmundy. The Stephen A Forbes State Recreation Area Oak Ridge Campground provides an alternative within the same park system.

"Main trail was nice but could be better marked," observes Tracie E., capturing the campground's mix of solid basics with room for improvement. The combination of lake access, spacious sites, and seasonal operation makes this a practical base for extended stays in southern Illinois.

Suggest an Edit

RV Road Trip Guides

Camping The Route 66 Road Trip

Route 66 Road Trip Segment: Chicago, IL to St Louis, MO

Chicago to St. Louis: 3-Day Road Trip

Build Your Trip

Plan a TripAdd

Location

Public Campground

Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area is located in Illinois

Coordinates

38.72000044 N
88.7630004 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verizon
No Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verizon
No Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Hike-In
Backcountry sites.
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group
Cabins
Tent Cabin
Equestrian

Features

For Campers

Market
ADA Access
Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Reservable
Showers
Drinking Water
Electric Hookups
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Sanitary Dump
Sewer Hookups
Water Hookups
Pull-Through Sites
30 Amp Hookups

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

1 hr 38 min from St. Louis, MO
1 hr 42 min from Decatur, IL
1 hr 50 min from Evansville, IN
1 hr 55 min from Springfield, IL

2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Enter to Win

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

4.0

out of 5

13 Reviews

Many visitors reported spacious, well-maintained sites with clean facilities and family-friendly amenities. Some campers noted concerns about rude staff behavior, though the peaceful setting and good site spacing were commonly praised.

Matt M.

Traveler

Reviewed May. 20, 2024

Nice State Park Campground

We stayed here for the eclipse in April. No real issues. Kids had plenty of room to run around, hike and safely ride bikes around the campground. Showers and bathrooms were typical for a state park.

There were heavy storms the night before the eclipse and everyone in tents were completely soaked. The area around our site had really poor drainage. We had noisy neighbors that were up until at least 2 or 3 with zero regards for anyone else trying to sleep.

Month of VisitApril

Bennie

Traveler

Reviewed Jul. 13, 2023

Not too bad and great in a pinch!

We did not have a reservation it was just a quick stop for the night while passing through.

This was a good spot for the night. We didn't get there until after dark and the campgrounds weren't that well marked. We didn't stay in the spot we originally planned because it was getting late and we couldn't find it and I didn't want to keep hitting the other campers with our headlights.

The campground was no where near full and it was very quiet so a very nice nights stay. Only complaint was trying to find the right campsite.

Month of VisitJuly

Tracie E.

Traveler

Reviewed Apr. 30, 2022

Nice & Private

We we’’re here 1st week of April. Still rather cool weather but had a great time. There are 3 loops only one of which is reservable & we were at the rear of that loop. Had the whole place to ourselves until the last night. Lots of squirrels for the dogs to chase and lots of wood in & around the campground. Hosts told us they were making more space for specific species of trees so “take all you want” from the area. No need to bring firewood.

Main trail was nice but could be better marked. Lost our way a few times but still a good hike. Definitely want to go back when the restaurant is open (mid-May I believe).

Fishing could’ve been better but again it was early April

Cell service was only 1-2 bars LTE with AT&T but able to stream with hotspot to the SmartTV with only 1 bar so not bad

Site25

Month of VisitApril

Sharon F.

Scout

Reviewed Aug. 9, 2021

Hateful Host

While setting up our tents a woman came strutting down the road and in a hateful voice hollered "You've got 5 minutes to get your car out of here." Come to find out she was the camp host and apparently there was a small sign that one couldn't drop off supplies even though I am disabled. I understand she didn't want vehicle's back there but as they say you get more flies with honey than vinegar! Will never go back. Poor attitude!!

Siteprimitive camping

Month of VisitJuly

Stacy B.

Traveler

Reviewed Apr. 5, 2021

Large area

Large and clean area

Stacy B.

Traveler

Reviewed Apr. 5, 2021

Very nice camping

Lots to do and see. They have a bridge and trail that connect campsite to marina. Looove it

Jake L.

Traveler

Reviewed Oct. 27, 2020

Small Lake And Beautiful

It's a small campground that offers a playground,bathhouse, hiking trails, and a small swimming area. There is easy access walking down to the marina. With small towns close to this state park.

Samantha H.

Traveler

Reviewed Aug. 8, 2020

Trailer camping

We went for a weekend. The camp site we chose was very clean and had water and electric hook ups. Nice place for a fire. We were not a fan of the host she was very rude to us. My boyfriend is a disabled veteran and we showed the papers stating he was and she wouldn’t accept it. We asked her for information about the place and she was not informational at all. Our over all experience was okay but we will not go back.

Jennifer G.

Scout

Reviewed Oct. 14, 2019

Good separation

Most of the sites are large and a good distance from the next one. Shower house is alright. The store/restaurant has been closed for a year or two now because of the Illinois budget. There's a dollar store in Farina and a grocery store in Kinmundy; both towns are less than 10 miles away. The lake is big enough for ski boats but nice for kayaks also. Swim beach is not well maintained due to the budget but also doesn't cost anything since they can't pay anyone to man the gate, but it's not horrible.

Lori W.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 16, 2018

relaxing place

this is where we have camped the most. there is very little cell service so it is a great place to be unplugged and enjoy time with friends and family!

(4) View All

Chad K.

Legend

Reviewed Sep. 18, 2016

Nice SP

This state park is a basic but nice state park facility, The tent sites were basic but fairly level and clean. Most of the sites had fire pits and picnic table. The bathrooms were big and clean, At the time of our visit it was raining so we didn't get a chance to explore much but its someplace we will come back to.

Baxter

Scout

Reviewed Jul. 7, 2016

primitive

Park was spacious and we'll maintained. Security was not great, as someone tried to get into our car in the middle of the night. Bath houses were large and basic.

Kevin M.

Scout

Reviewed Jun. 27, 2016

tent camping

it was a nice place will return

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Stephen A Forbes State Recreation Area look like?

Stephen A Forbes State Recreation Area is characterized by spacious, well-maintained grounds with plenty of natural surroundings. The campground features multiple loops with sites that offer good distance between neighbors. Many camping spots are level, clean, and shaded by trees. The recreation area includes a lake with a marina, a small swimming area, and a bridge with connecting trails from the campsite to the waterfront. There's also a playground for children, hiking trails throughout the property, and abundant wildlife including squirrels. The natural setting provides ample open spaces for outdoor activities.

Where is Stephen A Forbes State Recreation Area located and what camping options are available?

Stephen A Forbes State Recreation Area is located in Illinois, near the small towns of Farina and Kinmundy (both less than 10 miles away). The recreation area offers multiple camping loops with water and electric hookups at many sites. Only one of the three loops is reservable, while the others are first-come, first-served. Sites are spacious and include fire pits and picnic tables. The campground provides easy access to the marina and lake, with both tent and RV camping options available. The recreation area also features a small store, though its operational status may vary.

What do other visitors say about camping at Stephen A Forbes State Recreation Area?

Campers generally appreciate the spaciousness and cleanliness of Stephen A Forbes State Recreation Area. Many highlight the large sites that offer good privacy from neighbors. The bathhouses are described as basic but clean and adequate. Visitors enjoy the numerous recreational opportunities including hiking trails, the marina access, and the playground. The campground is noted for having very limited cell service, making it ideal for those wanting to disconnect. Families particularly value the safe environment for children to run around, hike, and ride bikes. Some mention occasional issues with campground hosts or navigation after dark. During severe weather, the campground may experience flooding in some areas.

Is there a map of Stephen A Forbes State Recreation Area for navigation?

Maps of Stephen A Forbes State Recreation Area are available, though some visitors note that campground sections aren't well-marked, especially when arriving after dark. The recreation area consists of three distinct camping loops, with only one being reservable. For detailed navigation, it's recommended to check with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website or contact the park office directly before your visit. Having a map is particularly helpful for locating amenities like the marina, swimming area, playground, and hiking trails that connect different parts of the park including the bridge that links the campground to the marina.

Keep Exploring