Southern Illinois and eastern Missouri offer diverse camping experiences with sites sprinkled throughout the Shawnee National Forest and along the Mississippi River. This region features elevations ranging from 328 to 1,064 feet, creating varied terrain for campers to explore. Weather conditions can change rapidly in this area, with summer humidity averaging 70-80% and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Hike the Red Cedar Trail: At Giant City State Park Campground, campers can access a 6-mile loop trail that winds through the forest. "The trails are fun and interesting while the lodge is fantastic! The scenery is beautiful and the lookout tower gives amazing views!" according to Livia W. The trail connects to a primitive Red Cedar Campground with unique tee-pee style structures.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Glendale at Oak Point Campground provides electric-motor-only boating and fishing. "A nearby boat loading area to go out on the lake, a public picnic area, and a beach where you can swim (for a small fee) or rent paddle boats," notes Claudia L. Bank fishing is also available along the trails that border the lake.
Rock climbing: For more adventurous visitors, the area offers climbing opportunities. "For climbers, there is a ton of nearby trad and sport climbing. The main wall stays wet for a while so if it has recently rained you may need to find somewhere else," explains Josh M. Bring your own gear and expertise to tackle these natural rock formations.
What campers like
Private lakeside sites: Campers appreciate waterfront access at many campgrounds. At Crab Orchard Lake Crab Orchard NWR, "The back in site we had overlooked the lake. For the price, you can't beat the view," says TJ G. The campground offers spacious, mostly level spots with trees providing shade and privacy.
Clean facilities: Visitors frequently mention well-maintained amenities. "The bathrooms and camp store were extremely nice," notes Christopher B. about Perryville RV Resort By Rjourney. Another camper observed, "The showers and restrooms are nice. Ones in Loop A are no new (Loop Bs are new) but still nice. Lots of hot water."
Yurt camping near Cape Girardeau, Missouri: For those seeking alternative accommodations, yurt options exist within driving distance. "Yurt camping around Cape Girardeau provides sturdy shelter with basic amenities," explains a visitor to Huzzah Valley. For travelers wanting to try yurt rentals near Cape Girardeau, several campgrounds offer these permanent tent structures with beds and electricity.
What you should know
First-come, first-served sites: Many campgrounds don't take reservations. "There is a dump station at the entrance. Sites are first come and there are no reservations taken. During the week, no problem. Weekends would be iffy," warns Jon H. about Oak Point Campground. Plan to arrive early, especially during peak season.
Limited water hookups: Several campgrounds have restrictions on water access. "No water hook up at each site, only electricity," reports Shana D. Some sites require filling tanks before setting up camp. Electric-only sites typically cost $12-22 per night.
Highway proximity: Some campgrounds are located near major roadways. "It isn't what we're used to, we usually like more remote, isolated, rugged, off the grid type sites but, it was nice," explains Christopher B. "The highway is also extremely close and can be heard at all times."
Tips for camping with families
Beach and water activities: Several campgrounds offer water recreation for children. "There is a large lake with swimming, fishing, kayaking. Also has a bike trail around it - maybe 2 miles," mentions Jon H. Some areas have beach access for a small fee ($5 per person) and rental equipment available.
Playgrounds and recreation: Shawnee Forest Campground has paved trails for walking and biking. "Super friendly camp host, conveniently located off the interstate and feels pretty secure and tranquil," says Jessica T. The campground features several ponds for fishing with a catch-and-release policy.
Poison ivy awareness: Be cautious with children playing in wooded areas. "Unfortunately, there was SO MUCH poison ivy that we couldn't play in the woods. But we enjoyed our stay on the beautiful lake!" warns Rachel C. Check sites carefully upon arrival and teach children to identify and avoid this plant.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness varies: RV campers should 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. Bring leveling blocks and check forecasts for rain that might affect site conditions.
Hookup locations: Pay attention to utility placement when selecting sites. "The water and electric(50/30/20 AMP) are at the back of the gravel pad. There are two sewer hookups, which was nice." Some campgrounds offer full hookups while others have electric-only with shared water sources.
Limited big rig access: Larger RVs may struggle at certain campgrounds. "Very large rigs (35+) will be challenging, but I've seen them - more towards the front," advises Jon H. Call ahead to verify accessibility for your specific vehicle size.
