🌝 2024 Solar eclipse: Book now for 4/8

The best camping near Trail of Tears State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Trail of Tears adventure.

100% (1 reviews)
100% (1 reviews)

River landscapes, recreation, and history abound at this park.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Trail of Tears State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Trail of Tears State Park

100%
(439)

Wine Trail Wilderness

11 sites ¡ RVs, Tents37 acres ¡ Pomona, IL
The Shawnee National Forest surrounds us, accessible only by wandering roads, passing over creeks and alongside wineries. The trip is worth the beautiful drive, eventually arriving at "The Villa". Our home looks like an Italian villa, appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest. It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy. Originally built as a Holistic Healing Center, we have converted it into a comfortable home with great vibes. We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a fun place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the same relaxed feel we get while living out here in the woods, when you come visit. We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. We love sharing the Shawnee experience.
from 
$30
 / night
Booked 43 times

Pond Ridge Adventure

50 sites ¡ Tents50 acres ¡ Murphysboro, IL
We have 50 acres located in Southern Illinois 4 miles south of Murphysboro connected to 100 acres of Shawnee National forest.We set up a small family primitive campground for our family to enjoy every evening we ride our utv over from our house and watch the wildlife there are deer turkeys bobcats and many other small animal.Learn more about this land:Mostly suitable for Rv with generators and self contained units
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$50
 / night
100%
(3)

Robyn M.’s Land

81 sites ¡ RVs, Tents42 acres ¡ Tamms, IL
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$20
 / night
100%
(22)

Community of Faith Church-Eclipse

82 sites ¡ RVs15 acres ¡ Marion, IL
Our church sits on approximtely 15 acres of open property. Community of Faith is a non-denominational protestant church. Services are held on Sunday at 10am in the Sanctuary. The church's Boy Scout troop is in charge of the camping and will be there to assist guests as needed. The property has large open grassy areas with access to 3 outdoor flushing restroom facilities, a pavilion and a fire pit. Campers are welcome to camp right on the property, vehicles allowed at camp site (subject to ground moisture levels) otherwise parking areas are very close by. Plenty of room for campers to spread out and enjoy their own space. Campers would need to bring their own equipment, tables, chairs, etc. Property is located at the intersection of Rt 148 and Rt 13 on the outskirts of Marion IL. It is minutes away from numerous shopping and food conveniences.
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$40
 / night
100%
(4)

The Ridge

6 sites ¡ RVs, Tents80 acres ¡ Scott City, MO
Nestled atop a serene ridge in a lush, wooded area lies this tranquil property. Turkeys roam freely, alongside an array of other wildlife, making this 60-acre oasis their home. A private lake with a charming dock adds to the allure of this secluded retreat. Accessible via a gravel road just a stone's throw away from Interstate I55, this location is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, the air is filled with the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. The peaceful atmosphere invites visitors to relax and recharge, away from the noise and distractions of the city. Whether you prefer to spend your days fishing on the lake, hiking through the woods, or simply lounging on the dock with a good book, this tranquil oasis offers something for everyone. Come unwind, unplug, and bask in the beauty of nature at this idyllic getaway.
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$10
 / night
Booked 29 times

Tall Tree Lake

38 sites ¡ RVs, Tents220 acres ¡ Buncombe, IL
We are a 220 acre family owned and operated campground in the middle of the Shawnee National forest. We love providing a safe, beautiful, peaceful, and central location for people to enjoy our beautiful area. Fishing and hiking are welcomed for all of our guests! Located in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest. Close proximity to Ferne Clyffe State Park, Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, and only a 10 minute drive from I-24.
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$32
 / night
Booked 5 times

Total Eclipse Camp, Commerce, MO

10 sites ¡ RVs4 acres ¡ Commerce, MO
The Village of Commerce is located halfway between St.Louis and Memphis. Commerce has an unobstructed view of the Mississippi without a levee. This location will have approximately 4 minutes of totality for the April 8, 2024 eclipse. There is public access to the Mississippi for fishing and exploring.
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$50
 / night
100%
(3)

Ridge Camping Private

34 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents42 acres ¡ Mill Creek, IL
You will hike to your private primitive destination. We ask that you please have an above ground firepit! Explore the property and enjoy a private stay!!!!!!!!!!! We're hosting a festival from April 4-9, so ticket prices have changed. Each site accommodates only two people during these dates. All other attendees must purchase tickets through our website: https://willowspringscampground.com/event/willow-springs-awakening-eclipse-festival/.
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$10
 / night
100%
(5)

⭐ Cozy Log Cabin with Hot Tub ⭐

1 site ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ Cape Girardeau, MO
Hot Tub available, Relaxing staycation here in Cape Girardeau Perfect for a QUICK GETAWAY for couples, families or friends 5 MINS to the casino, country club and downtown cape Very unique log home with a private bedroom queen size bed, pull-out queen size bed in the living room and double futon SLEEPS 6. Pool table, darts, BBQ grill and a hot tub. There is a large deck and fire pit which has the feel of being in the woods
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$145
 / night
Booked 5 times

Solar Eclipse 2024 Campsites

98 sites ¡ RVs, Tents30 acres ¡ Ava, IL
Front and Outback Spots available- RV, campers, and tents are welcome First come, first serve 30 X 60 Camp Spots for Campers and RV's - $125 per night 30 X 30 Camp Spots for Tents- $100 per night. ( Send a message and we'll give you discount code) Available in fenced in and gated area 1 mile away from town in country setting 24/7 surveillance Beautiful sunset view 5 acre pond- No swimming, No fishing No hook up (No water, electric, or sewer) Dumpster is available for garbage Water on premise, provide own holding tank Porta Potty available Very accommodating Bring your gators to drive to town to eat at crazy Joe's fish house, or have fun at Kinkaid Lake, or go back roading, the options are endless. Half a mile from Sharp Rock Falls Campground, with a 150 permanent campers year around
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$125
 / night
100%
(1)

Big Muddy Brewing

22 sites ¡ RVs, Tents3 acres ¡ Murphysboro, IL
Big Muddy Brewing - Dead Center For 2024 Total Eclipse "The Great Gig In The Sky". Camping that week includes Free Shuttle Bus to Pond Ridge Adventure Campground (Eclipse Overflow Camping) plus local restaurants and attractions, Friday Night: Adlar Planetarium Presentations including Star Gazing , Music Saturday & Sunday By The Ivas John Band & The Monolithic Pink Floyd Night Show. Big Muddy's a production craft brewery and taproom offering over 25 beers on tap. Our taproom has beer tastings, pints and growlers as well as wine and craft spirits. We also have plenty of packaged beer to go. Our kitchen has Flatbread pizzas, Chicago dogs, Italian beef subs, Bavarian pretzels & more. Check our Facebook page for a schedule of events.
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$25
 / night
Booked 7 times

Eclipse Camping-Kinkaid Lake ILOzrk

8 sites ¡ Tents3 acres ¡ Murphysboro, IL
This property is currently operating at the following Hipcamp link, where you can read reviews, see additional photos, and book: https://www.hipcamp.com/en-US/land/illinois-heron-house-total-eclipse-camping-306yh9ml 2024 Total Eclipse Camping in the Path of Totality and Longest Duration Four minutes and six seconds of totality! Immerse yourself in the experience at the edge of a lake away from light pollution. The entire eclipse will last over 2 hours, start to finish. Pitch your tent in the path of totality at the edge of Kinkaid Lake and the Shawnee Forest. Campsites have shade and views of open skies for the eclipse. Additional attractions and amenities are detailed below. We look forward to hosting you! Heron House Campground is in the path of totality and just a few miles from the point of greatest duration. This listing is for 1 of a handful of sites that can be booked on a first-come, first-served basis. Heron House is located 5 ½ miles northwest of Murphysboro at the edge of Kinkaid Lake and the Shawnee National Forest in the Illinois Ozarks (away from city lights). It is gorgeous country! Here the skies are dark, the laughs are belly-deep, the wildlife is boisterous, and deep breaths of contentment live among the breezes in the bluffs. Heron House Family Campground is registered as an approved campground with the local health department (Jackson County). Heron House is a relaxing camping environment with friendly hosts. Campsites are available April 4-April 9. 3-night minimum $90 per camper per day, tents only Payment and signed release of liability for the individual making the reservation are due at the time of reservation. Campsites have shade trees and access to uninhibited views (open skies for the eclipse). The night skies are stunning here. Heron House also has a shaded porch that campers are welcome to sit and enjoy a cold beverage on. :) Campsites will be booked in the order that payment and releases are received. Attractions and Amenities: •Multiple gorgeous hiking trails--from easy to rigorous--and biking opportunities close by (hosts have additional information) •Walking distance to Kinkaid Lake and Marina, which has a restaurant, bar, laundry, showers, and convenience shop •Kinkaid Lake Spillway is the area’s most beautiful “swimming hole” and can be accessed by car (6-min. drive) or boat •Fishing docks and lake within walking distance •Beautiful lakeside and sunset strolls •Owners/hosts on-site •Wineries nearby (by car); firewood available for purchase on-site •Parking on-site (one standard-size parking place per campsite) •Award-winning restaurants nearby, including 17th Street Barbecue, three-time World Grand Champions •Science and history museums (adult and kid-friendly) •The area is a nature lover’s paradise, surrounded by national forest and state parks and stunning beauty Campers have access to shared, serviced toilet facilities and hand-washing stations that meet county code. Laundry (coin) and shower facilities are located within walking distance at the local marina. Potable water, dumpster for trash, and a large, in-the-ground, shared campfire pit for campers to share. Campers are very welcome to bring self-sustaining cooking/campfire equipment as long as it is in a contained unit that is raised off of the ground. In other words, no fires or dig pits on/in the ground. Thanks! A power-strip station is available for campers to share to charge mobile phones, laptops, and tablets; these are the only electronic devices that can be charged at the power station, so please be sure to have adequate batteries or charging equipment for other devices. For the courtesy of others, gas-powered generators are not permitted, and power is not available on-site for electric generators. Reservations will be secured once payment and release for the individual whose name is on the reservation have been received, but please note that each individual camper must sign a release of liability (guardians sign for minors). If the release has not been signed before arrival, it must be signed upon arrival. Please note that refunds will not be granted, including for refusal to sign the release on the part of any camper in the party. Free coffee in the morning for early risers from 6 a.m. 'til it's gone, and free treats in the evening for after-supper snackers ('til they're gone). :) We look forward to hosting your magnificent stay in Southernmost Illinois for the 2024 Total Eclipse!
from 
$90
 / night

The best camping near Trail of Tears State Park guide

Overview

About

This park solemnly commemorates the Trail of Tears, the devastating, forced relocation of members of the Cherokee tribe in the mid-1830s. Today, a visitor center helps tell the story of the groups who crossed the waters of the mighty Mississippi River at this location in southeastern Missouri. Beyond the historical significance, this park now offers recreational opportunities in a scenic landscape, with the river and Lake Boutin serving as focal points. Hike a trail for panoramic views of the Mississippi, watch for migratory birds, or toss a line into the waters. A whole menu of activities can be enjoyed.

Notable Camping Spots

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. The Lake Boutin Campground is open and reservable May 1 through October 31 and offers basic sites.
  2. The Mississippi River Campground is open and reservable year round and has sites with electric only or full hookups.
  3. Water and showers are available at the Mississippi River Campground April 1 through October 31. During the off season, a frost-free potable water spigot is accessible at the dump station.
  4. Reservations may be made up to 12 months in advance over the phone or online.
  5. Walk-up reservations are offered for non-reserved sites.

When to go

Due to the recreational activities, summer is a busy time at this park, though the weather may be humid and reach temperatures above 90 degrees. Spring and fall are milder, with varying conditions. The scenery is especially scenic during autumn due to the woodlands and panoramic views. The winter season is a quiet one, but it offers the best chance to spot bald eagles nesting along the Mississippi River. Come prepared for freezing temperatures and occasional snow or ice.

Know before you go

  • A train line runs near the park, so you will likely hear engine noise and the horns as trains pass by. On the plus side, you can get great train photos.
  • Full hookup sites are narrow, but some have views of the Mississippi.
  • The visitor center provides an educational look at the history of the Trail of Tears, offering displays and interpretive programs.
  • This is one of the few Missouri state parks to offer onsite locations for metal detecting.
  • Horses are allowed on the 8-mile Peewah Trail.
  • A swimming beach is offered on Lake Boutin.
  • Watercraft are allowed on both Lake Boutin and the Mississippi (if river conditions allow).

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