The best camping near Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Stephen A. Forbes adventure.

50% (1 reviews)

Land your limit of largemouth bass, bluegill or crappie at this well-stocked, beautiful lake.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area

Stephen A. Forbes Campground

55 sites · RVs, Tents In Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area

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(7)

MC Lodging

15 sites · RVs15 acres · Vernon, IL

MC Lodging is located on 15 acres. We have 29 sites with full hookup at each site. We are open year round. Our campground has a nice pond with some nice size fish. We have a pavilion with a laundromat and a shower house. We also have a playground for kids.if you’re looking for a nice secluded getaway, you have found it ❤️

100%

(17)

The Quiet Countryside

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Vandalia, IL

Easy access for campers located by a pond. Great for fishing and relaxing! 30 AMP electric hookup, can accommodate water fill up and sewer dump. There is a covered pavilion with picnic table and chairs. There is a grill and a fire pit. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway you will love it here! Located close to the interstate. Plenty of restaurants near by and Vandalia lake is 8 minutes from campsite.

Booked 66 times

Eclipse at The Back 20

121 sites · Tents20 acres · Mount Vernon, IL

Discover the beauty of nature on our 20-acre property, where primitive tent sites await your peaceful retreat. Embrace the simplicity of a camping experience with contained fires and the companionship of your pets, all while enjoying the serene rural setting. For those who enjoy fishing, off-road trails, and the allure of a breathtaking eclipse away from city lights, our location offers the perfect backdrop. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the countryside and make lasting memories surrounded by the beauty of nature. There is no running water at this site but fresh running water and a shower are available at the old ranch house less than a mile away. Water is readily available less than a mile away, ensuring your basic needs are met as you embark on a rustic and adventurous camping journey. We welcome you to join us for an unforgettable stay, and if you have any further questions or inquiries, please feel free to reach out. Your peaceful and scenic escape awaits!

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(9)

Harmony Hill Acres

54 sites · RVs, Tents18 acres · Centralia, IL

Ranch lands of a prior Horse Ranch at the edge of town is conveniently located. Most of the property is pasture area but plenty of yard for tent camping and LOTS of space for those who want to pitch a tent in the pastures. We have small goats, chickens, and turkeys on-site (please do not enter barn or animal pens). There are no hookups for water or power, but we can accommodate some use of water from our spigots. We live about 2 miles from our local lake, which has boat access and paddling access. The beautiful view of sunsets and sunrises are spectacular more times than not. We host large herd of deer traveling and sometimes bedding down in our pastures, so be sure to watch early mornings for them to be on the move. We are very close to town, but the 18-acre site brings a serene aspect to the grounds. ***WE ARE BRINGING IN A PORTA-POTTY OR 2 FOR THE TENT CAMPERS OVER THE WEEKEND OF 4/6/24 SOLAR ECLIPSE. WE ALSO HAVE A COTTAGE KITCHEN AND WILL HAVE A FEW BREAKFAST ITEMS, BREADS, AND SWEET BREADS FOR ORDER.

Booked 6 times

Secluded Eclipse Viewing Field

30 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Bluford, IL

Experience the eclipse from almost dead center of its path on our 20-acre hay field, featuring 20 spacious sites. Each party will have a whole acre to themselves, ensuring plenty of room and avoiding overcrowding. This is complete primitive camping; there are no bathrooms on site, but you'll have access to running water at the owner's house. Dogs on leashes are welcome, and we are 420 friendly. Small fires are allowed, provided you prep the fire site and have everything you need to extinguish it if necessary. Remember to pack out what you pack in. Thank you. The address for this property is 537 County Rd 105 E, Bluford, Illinois 62814. Please note that Hipcamp maps may not provide the correct address, and manual entry may be required.

Booked 5 times

Eclipse at The Corner Hay Field

11 sites · Tents3 acres · Bluford, IL

Nestled in the tranquil countryside, the corner Hay field offers a rustic retreat with ten primitive tent sites. Surrounded by swaying grasses and gently rolling hills, each site provides a serene escape into nature, ideal for those seeking simplicity and seclusion. With minimal amenities, campers can immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance, under the vast expanse of the starlit sky, making it a perfect spot for those yearning for an authentic outdoor experience.

The best camping near Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area guide

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About

Set your inner conservationist free with at least an overnight stay at Oak Ridge Campground. Seclusion-seekers find 10 walk-in tent sites with views of the beautiful lake. Surrounded by shady oaks and rolling hills, the 585-acre lake is a hub of activity. Sport fisherman land largemouth bass that are stocked annually. Boaters find easy lake access with two ramps and a beautiful marina, complete with restaurant.

Boasting 3,100 acres of oak-hickory forest, this state park was named for biologist Stephen A. Forbes. Four established nature trails give hiking enthusiasts a bounty of natural wonders to explore. A 15-mile horse trail circles the lake, taking the rider on a panoramic eye-candy excursion. Swimmers and picnickers flock to the 200-foot sand beach at Rocky Point.

Tent dwellers enjoy a campground separate from the 115-site campground for RVs and campers. An equestrian campground with 21 electrical sites and a cabin that sleeps six ensures everyone has a comfy place to stay.