Best Dispersed Camping near Morganfield, KY

Campers exploring the region around Morganfield, Kentucky will find diverse options within an hour's drive, particularly in the nearby Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois. Jackson Falls offers free dispersed camping popular with rock climbers and hikers, featuring primitive sites with fire rings but minimal amenities. Lake Glendale Recreation Area provides a more developed experience with electric hookups, water access, and shaded sites that back up to the lake. Dispersed camping spots throughout Shawnee National Forest accommodate both tent campers seeking solitude and vehicle-based campers looking for accessible natural settings.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the area, particularly at Jackson Falls where several water crossings can challenge vehicles without adequate clearance. As one camper noted, "The road to get into the primitive camp area is long and a little bumpy, but we had no problem in a 4x4. Sprinter vans would be fine, but definitely not fun for even small RVs." Cell service is limited or nonexistent in many camping areas. Weather patterns affect both accessibility and water features, with several visitors mentioning that Jackson Falls can range from a robust waterfall after spring rains to merely a trickle during dry periods, significantly changing the camping experience.

The natural features around campsites receive consistently high ratings from visitors, with sandstone bluffs, moss-covered boulders, and forest settings creating memorable backdrops. Weekday camping typically offers more solitude, while holiday weekends can bring crowds, especially to the more accessible sites. "If you don't mind hiking in a bit, peace and quiet can be found," advised one Jackson Falls visitor. Lake Glendale campers frequently mention the clean facilities, swimming beach, and 3-mile lake trail as highlights. Wildlife encounters and seasonal considerations shape the camping experience, with spring offering wildflowers and flowing water features, while fall brings colorful foliage but potentially dried-up waterfalls.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Morganfield, Kentucky (3)

    1. Jackson Falls

    22 Reviews
    Shawnee National Forest, IL
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 658-2111

    "We are a Jeep family so I may have more experience than others in off-roading. We opted to turn around and stay at the main parking lot which is VERY accessible."

    "There are primative campsites on both sides of Glen Street Falls Road near the trailhead. You can drive right up and park next to your campsite."

    2. Lake Glendale Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    Grantsburg, IL
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 949-3807

    $12 - $44 / night

    "This campground is an absolute gem and is by far our favorite in Illinois.Tucked into the tall pines of the Shawnee national forest, this park offers a handful of gorgeous sites for campers to enjoy, many"

    "There is a longer wine trail further west in Shawnee National Forest. When I entered Lake Glendale, Cardinal Bay boat launch was the first area I visited."

    3. Dispersed Campsite Shawnee National Forest

    1 Review
    Grantsburg, IL
    48 miles

    "It's easily accessible by all rig types. Backs up to the open forest and you pull right back onto the highway."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Morganfield, KY

9 Photos of 3 Morganfield Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Morganfield, KY

36 Reviews of 3 Morganfield Campgrounds


  • Stacia R.
    Apr. 27, 2019

    Jackson Falls

    Popular dispersed camping area

    This is dispersed camping within the Shawnee National Forest. The area can be tricky to find if you are unfamiliar with the area. It can also get very crowded on nice days due to its proximity to the college campus. It is also very popular with rock climbers and people on horseback. I found the trails to be somewhat confusing and not well marked. I was here Easter weekend and the weather was great, so there were a lot of tents set up right near the parking area. If you don’t mind hiking in a bit, peace and quiet can be found.

  • tom L.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 5, 2025

    Jackson Falls

    Jackson Falls Dispersed

    We run a 28ft RV and we’re able to cross the first water wash without problem. We are a Jeep family so I may have more experience than others in off-roading.

    We opted to turn around and stay at the main parking lot which is VERY accessible. The further sights will require crossing several wash outs. The terrain is hard rock and any capable 4x4 should be able to navigate to the furthest sight’s. .

  • J K.
    Sep. 3, 2019

    Lake Glendale Recreation Area

    Our IL #1

    This campground is an absolute gem and is by far our favorite in Illinois.Tucked into the tall pines of the Shawnee national forest, this park offers a handful of gorgeous sites for campers to enjoy, many that back right up to Lake Glendale. The sites are mostly private and have water hookups as well as electric. A nearby beach is available to enjoy during the summer as well as hiking trails. While this campground is certainly off the beaten path it is perfect for those that want to get away and enjoy some quiet time. No reservations though so you’ll want to get there ahead of time to ensure yourself a spot If you enjoy a very

  • Marta S.
    Jun. 13, 2021

    Jackson Falls

    Unimpressive and crowded

    The campsite is considered to be primitive, which is fine, but it is right along the trail without any cover. All the campsites are one on top of the other without any cover in between or from the trail. They were all taken and incredibly packed during the Memorial Day weekend and honestly seemed very messy and unpleasant. I would not feel comfortable leaving my equipment and gear here unattended at all. I'm not sure if it's any better the further along the trail you go, but the areas we hiked it didn't appear there were additional primitive/dispersed camping spots available other than the ones near the trail head. Also, important to note that there are lots of ticks and poison ivy everywhere.

    I have camped in backcountry locations and have done dispersed/primitive camping and enjoy it quite a bit, but I would have been miserable at this location.

  • GoWhereYouAreDraw N.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 16, 2020

    Jackson Falls

    Waterfalls, hiking, climbing, and FREE camping

    Jackson offers some of the best rock climbing in southern Illinois. There are about 60 climbing areas along the sandstone bluffs and freestanding boulders, with multiple routes. Most of the routes here are sport routes, though there are a number of trad routes.

    There are primative campsites on both sides of Glen Street Falls Road near the trailhead. You can drive right up and park next to your campsite. If those campsites are full, there are additional campsites further down the road.

    Most campsites have fire rings. There are no picnic tables or campfire grills there. There are also no garbage cans. You must pack out all of your garbage. You also need to bring your own drinking water as there is no fresh water there.

    There's a single outhouse at the trailhead that is well maintained and pretty clean.

  • Matt V.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 8, 2024

    Jackson Falls

    Love this place!

    This is a spectacular place if you are looking for private and semi-private dispersed campgrounds that you can drive up to. Great hiking around the area. 

    The road to get into the primitive camp area is long, and just a little bumpy but we had no problem in a 4x4, also saw volvos and subarus do just fine.  Sprinter vans would be fine. Was pretty dry when we visited, could see the road getting a little sketch after big rain.  Definitely not gonna be fun for even small RV's. Tough turnarounds for large trailers or 5th wheels.

  • R
    Sep. 4, 2022

    Jackson Falls

    Great campground

    Off the beaten path and wasn’t sure what to expect but once there it was nice…just a parking lot with a vault lock toilet and a few campsites you see right away… also a few down the path if you want a little remote. The bathroom was stocked with tp but you will want to bring hand sanatizer or water. None available there. Cool views of the Bluffs 1/4 mile down the path and a bridge that would go over a waterfall if it wasn’t so dried up…would probably real pretty to see in the spring. Drove my Hyundai Elantra thru just fine, but it is a rough road and your car will get dirty.

  • Shawn M.
    Sep. 21, 2018

    Jackson Falls

    Gorgeous Winter hiking

    Jackson Falls is popular with climbers and has many marked routes. You are able to camp right along the water near the parking pull out and if you don't mind hikers passing by, it is a beautiful location. We were out in spring after a mid-march snow fall and melt which meant good water. I would love to come back in warmer weather to get wet. I would imagine warmer weather brings crowds.

  • Jacob T.
    Jul. 15, 2021

    Jackson Falls

    4x4 and tents only

    We were hoping to stay there but upon arrival realized that was not to be. The east side of the road is where the camping sites would be but the road was completely washed out. It would be challenging for a jeep to make it back to some of those sites.

    On top of that the river feeding Jackson Falls was all but dried up this time of year. Nothing but a trickle going down the cliff.

    We headed to Glendale Lake nearby and had much better luck at Oak Point.


Guide to Morganfield

Dispersed camping near Morganfield, Kentucky typically requires a drive into neighboring Illinois, where the Shawnee National Forest offers both primitive and developed camping options. The region sits on the northern edge of the Illinois Ozarks, with elevations ranging from 350 to 1,000 feet and a landscape characterized by sandstone bluffs and hardwood forests. Winter camping remains possible with temperatures rarely dropping below 20°F, though spring and fall offer more moderate conditions.

What to do

Rock climbing at Jackson Falls: The sandstone bluffs at Jackson Falls attract climbers year-round, with over 60 established routes ranging from beginner to advanced. "This place is popular with climbers, but I'm not one and had a rough time locating this place. The roads weren't marked the same way they are on the website's map, and the trailheads are confusing as well," notes Shelby B.

Hiking the lake trail: Lake Glendale features a 3-mile trail encircling the water, offering multiple access points from the campground. "An easy 3 mile hike around the lake," reports Donald S., who camped at Lake Glendale Recreation Area during summer. The trail passes CCC-built shelters and connects to the campground, beach, and boat launch.

Historical site exploration: Within 30 minutes of Lake Glendale, visitors can explore significant historical landmarks. "There are several historical sites in area. Illinois Iron Forge, Garden of the Gods, and segments of the Trail of Tears," mentions Donald S., highlighting educational opportunities beyond typical outdoor recreation.

What campers like

Boulder exploration: The massive sandstone formations throughout the area offer climbing and exploration opportunities. "The place is beautiful; forests and great big, moss covered boulders. It was fun climbing down to the bottom of the falls, even with small kids," shares Casie A. about their experience at Jackson Falls, noting that even during dry periods when water features disappear, the geological formations remain impressive.

Privacy options: Though popular sites can become crowded, Jackson Falls offers secluded spots for those willing to venture further. "It was nice... just a parking lot with a vault lock toilet and a few campsites you see right away... also a few down the path if you want a little remote," explains Rebekah, highlighting the range of isolation options.

Swimming opportunities: The designated beach at Lake Glendale provides a controlled swimming environment with gradual depth changes. "The family that takes care of the campground was very nice and accommodating, and the sites were well-maintained. The beach and swimming area was so nice for us enjoy," reports Jenny O., emphasizing the recreational water access.

What you should know

Road conditions and vehicle requirements: The access roads to dispersed camping areas vary significantly in quality. "Grave Road getting there was a bit rough for my Ram Promaster. Hill down to trail head could get slick if wet weather. Was alittle nervous getting out after it had rained," warns Jeremy R. about Jackson Falls.

Water crossings: Several sites require crossing small streams or water features. "Car camped without any issues but it's worth mentioning... there was a shallow creek crossing right before the camping areas that I was worried about when I arrived at night, but I realized in the morning that it was not a big deal even for 2WD vehicles," explains Mark F., providing reassurance about access conditions.

Cell service limitations: Connectivity remains spotty throughout the Shawnee National Forest region. "ATT cell service was spotty but I drove to Dixon Springs SP where there was a cell tower," notes Donald S., offering a practical solution for those needing to stay connected during their camping trip.

Tips for camping with families

Beach amenities: Lake Glendale Recreation Area offers family-friendly swimming with designated areas. "The kids love the playground, and there is SO much shade! The campsites are pretty private and some of them are nice and large," Chelsea D. shares, highlighting amenities that appeal to family groups.

Educational opportunities: Families can combine outdoor recreation with learning experiences. "There is a ton of hiking nearby, and we visited the Chocolate factory as well, which was a real treat," adds Chelsea D., suggesting supplementary activities beyond the campground.

Site cleanliness concerns: Some popular areas require vigilance about previous campers' impact. "Unfortunately there was a lot of glitter pieces, plastic kid's pieces and my self along picked up 34 cigarette butts. Besides the people that don't care about using a garbage can. Everything else was wonderful," reports Denise R., emphasizing the importance of checking sites upon arrival.

Tips from RVers

Site selection for larger vehicles: Dispersed Campsite Shawnee National Forest near Herod offers accessible options for larger rigs. "Love this spot! It's easily accessible by all rig types. Backs up to the open forest and you pull right back onto the highway," recommends Rodarius S., pointing out the ease of access for RVers.

Water crossings with RVs: Jackson Falls presents challenges for larger vehicles. "We run a 28ft RV and we're able to cross the first water wash without problem. We are a Jeep family so I may have more experience than others in off-roading. We opted to turn around and stay at the main parking lot which is VERY accessible," advises Tom L., providing specific guidance on access limitations.

Hookup availability: Water and electric connections are available at select sites. "The sites are mostly private and have water hookups as well as electric," confirms J K. about Lake Glendale, noting the amenities that make longer stays comfortable for RV campers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Morganfield, KY?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Morganfield, KY is Jackson Falls with a 4.2-star rating from 22 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Morganfield, KY?

TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Morganfield, KY, with real photos and reviews from campers.