93% (979) • 1,165 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Ava
Big Muddy Brewing
1. Big Muddy Brewing
96%
(47)
12mi from Ava · 42 sites · Tents, RVs
Big Muddy Brewing is 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 Bavarian pretzels, Flatbread pizzas and more.
Located in the heart of Southern Illinois, minutes from the Shawnee National Forest, Kinkaid Lake, Murphysboro State Park & Southern Illinois University.
Check our Facebook page for schedule of music and events.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pond Ridge Adventure
2. Pond Ridge Adventure
98%
(33)
12mi from Ava · 35 sites
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 animals.There are several lakes just 15 minutes away kinkade spillway is a popular place to hike and swim and little Grand Canyon is an awesome spot
Learn more about this land:
Mostly suitable for Rv with generators and self contained units
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Wine Trail Wilderness
3. Wine Trail Wilderness
100%
(695)
19mi from Ava · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
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 and believe all should enjoy this beautiful part of the country. LGBTQ are all welcome and accepted. We welcome all types of campers.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Shawnee National Forest
4. Shawnee National Forest
95%
(30)
National forest 64mi from Ava · 172 sites
Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Murphysboro State Park
5. Lake Murphysboro State Park
State park 9.8mi from Ava · 61 sites
Camp like a star at this lake and forested wilderness area in southern Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking
6. Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking
100%
(15)
29mi from Ava · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our rural farm oasis, where two shaded RV/Camper spots await for you to park and enjoy yourself in nature and the fresh country air! Each spot features concrete pads and is shaded by mature trees, providing a comfortable setting for your stay. Please note that spots are available for parking only; camper/RV is not included. Just a short 5-minute drive away, is the Prairie State Power Plant if you're in the area for work. Sparta, IL is about 12 minutes away for any supplies you would need or Marissa, IL is about a 7 minute drive.
Enjoy convenient access to electric hookups, including 50 amp, 30 amp, and 110v options. Additionally, a sewer drop is located within 15 feet of each spot, along with a water hookup for your convenience.
Both spots are situated in close proximity to our farm and two other Airbnb homes. When booked, you have access to the lake and a small pond down the lane. Please stay to the right of the Y and head across the dam. **No access permitted after dark.** These spots are great for fishing and/or having a picnic enjoying a private wooded area.
Just a short 5-minute drive away, is the Prairie State Power Plant if you're in the area for work. Sparta, IL is about 12 minutes away for any supplies you would need or Marissa, IL is about a 7 minute drive.
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and rural charm at our shaded RV/Camper spots, where the beauty of nature meets modern comfort.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Monarch Hill Vineyard
7. Monarch Hill Vineyard
99%
(93)
39mi from Ava · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Monarch Hill! Tucked away in the hills of Ste. Genevieve County, we enjoy watching the sun rise and set over our secluded pastures and vineyards.
Our hilltop sites offer an open area with fire rings and picnic tables, great for groups or social butterflies. These offer well water at the nearby barn for drinking and showering.
The Seclusion sites are private escapes for those who want to immerse themselves in the sounds of nature. Take in the chirps of frogs, birds and crickets at these isolated sites.
We offer a complimentary wood basket with every booking, and have additional fire-building supplies available. Be sure to check out our experiences to make the most of your stay, and don't forget to reserve a s'more kit!
*** April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse ***
We are excited to be located in the best viewing path for this year's total eclipse! We will be preparing additional sites as needed for this weekend, so if we are fully booked check back soon or message us to reserve a spot. More information to come as we approach the date.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Red Gate Farm, LLC
8. Red Gate Farm, LLC
92%
(12)
40mi from Ava · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Red Gate Farm, LLC, a farm with a vision! We previously ran a very successful Hipcamp site at our previous property, but completely relocated and are starting fresh! We purchased 50 acres of GORGEOUS timbered property, with rolling forested hills, several creeks, trees towering over 100 feet tall, and abundant wildlife. It's absolutely perfect for Hipcamp!
Building a new farm (and Hipcamp program) from scratch takes time--years even, but we decided now is as a good a time as any to share our beautiful timber with Hipcampers looking for some peace and privacy. While the site itself will be groomed and set up as listed, the surrounding grass won't be perfectly green yet, there will still be a lot of dead-wood and natural debris around the sites, and trails are a bit rough and uneven. If you can overlook the "rustic" aspects though, and enjoy the beauty of the peace and quiet of just enjoying nature, as it has sat unmanaged for roughly 50 years around the sites, then you are likely to love every moment!
If you desire more adventure than just hanging around and enjoying nature, be sure to check out the additional experiences we offer here on the farm, as well as the entire surrounding area. Southern IL is made up of the Shawnee National Forest and multiple state parks and recreational areas. You can find a wide variety of activities to keep you busy! Even the local towns have much to offer, whether you enjoy fine dining, casual restaurants, antique shopping, or a nice theater production.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Tall Tree Lake
9. Tall Tree Lake
98%
(48)
42mi from Ava · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pyramid State Recreation Area
10. Pyramid State Recreation Area
100%
(4)
State park 10mi from Ava · 68 sites
Besides the rad name inherited from an old coal mine, Pyramid State Recreation Area’s 19,701 acres makes it the largest state recreation area in all of Illinois. There are also more than 500 acres of lakes on the property, ranging from a meager 0.1 acres to a substantial 276 acres. That bad boy is known as Super Lake and is held in high regard by anglers seeking largemouth bass and bluegill. Lost Lake (a hike-in lake) and some other small lakes contain a hybrid of green sunfish/bluegill.
Land lovers can take advantage of 16.5 miles of foot, horse and mountain bike trails where you’re bound to encounter a sampling of the wildlife that includes songbirds, deer, squirrels, beavers, rabbits, turkeys, bobcats, raccoons, opossums, coyotes, weasels, minks, woodchucks and waterfowl. Future plans are in place to add even more trails to the park.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Randolph County State Recreation Area
11. Randolph County State Recreation Area
State park 18mi from Ava · 38 sites
Gorgeous in winter too, Randolph County SRA horse trails welcome cross-country skiing enthusiasts.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Giant City State Park
12. Giant City State Park
83%
(3)
State park 26mi from Ava · 65 sites
Sandstone and forest converge for fantastic camping, climbing, and hiking in southern Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mississippi River - Kaskaskia River
13. Mississippi River - Kaskaskia River
Park 28mi from Ava · 15 sites
Discover the scenic confluence of the Mississippi and Kaskaskia Rivers.
Toilets
Campfires
Picnic table
Robyn M.’s Land
14. Robyn M.’s Land
90%
(10)
43mi from Ava · 80 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ridge Camping Private
15. Ridge Camping Private
100%
(10)
43mi from Ava · 33 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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!!!!!!!!!!!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sycamore Springs Campground
16. Sycamore Springs Campground
96%
(111)
43mi from Ava · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
The campsite sits alongside the Castor River, offering electric hookups at 5 sites as well as 5 primitive tent sites. Enjoy outdoor adventures just minutes away, at the Amidon Memorial Conservation Area, a 1,630-acre area located on the upper reaches of the Castor River, located south of Route J, eight miles east of Fredericktown.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Harmony Hill Acres
17. Harmony Hill Acres
98%
(29)
49mi from Ava · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch
18. Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch
100%
(13)
50mi from Ava · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
We have five campsites in 135 acres of acres of forest and ranch land in our working cattle and sheep ranch. Located in a serene valley in the Ozark Highlands, the Ranch has Sheep, Scottish Highland Cattle, Chickens, Ducks and Great Pyrenees livestock guard dogs (only in the sheep pastures - and they are friendly). If you want to meet our animals and see the farm we are happy to show you around!
This is a unique site located in the Ozark Highlands. Only 45 minutes from Cape Girardeau (a small river town on the Mississippi), and 45 minutes from the Arcadia Valley including Taum Sauk mountain (the highest point in Missouri), Elephant Rocks, the Johnston Shutins, and other beautiful areas in the highlands.
The farm is five minutes from Marble Hill, which is home to the Bollinger County Natural History museum which highlights the only dinosaur bones found in Missouri. The bones were found at a farm in Glennallen (a few minutes from our farm) as well as a great barbeque (Jay’s Restaurant) and a good catfish restaurant (Jers Restaurant). On the way to our farm, feel free to stop at the 1,700 foot deep artesian well to get a cool, refreshing jug of natural artesian well water – the water is free, but you have to bring your own containers!
We are two and a half hours southwest of St. Louis, and two and half hours northwest of Memphis.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Cozy Cabin Close To Kinkaid Lake
19. Cozy Cabin Close To Kinkaid Lake
8mi from Ava · 1 site
Kat’s Getaway — Murphysboro, Illinois
Kat’s Getaway, located in Murphysboro, Illinois, features a cozy two-bedroom, 1.5-bath cabin less than half a mile from Kinkaid Lake and Marina. Enjoy the quiet country setting while still having the chance to meet other travelers during your stay. Whether you’re coming to fish, go boating, or simply enjoy some peace and quiet, this is the perfect cabin for you.
The Space
This charming cabin offers newly updated furnishings throughout. The fully equipped kitchen includes a stove, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, toaster, pots and pans, as well as both dining and cooking utensils. Guests are provided with complimentary coffee for their first morning and can enjoy it on the private back deck while taking in the tranquil sounds of nature.
Each bedroom features a comfortable queen-sized bed, accommodating up to four guests. Linens are supplied for your convenience, but if you have a preferred pillow or blanket, feel free to bring it along.
The cabin includes three smart TVs—one in the main living area and one in each bedroom—allowing guests to log in and stream their favorite shows. A portable fan is also available for use in any room as desired.
Additional Amenities
• Complimentary shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
• Hair dryer
• Coffee and condiments to get started
• Two rolls of toilet paper per bathroom
• One roll of paper towels
• Starter set of trash bags
• Linens, towels, and washcloths
• Wi-Fi
• Keyless entry
• Gas grill
• Outdoor fire pit
• Patio table and chairs
Guest Access
Guests have exclusive access to the entire cabin during their stay. This privacy allows you to fully relax and enjoy your surroundings without sharing the space with others.
Mornings can be spent savoring coffee in your pajamas while listening to the peaceful sounds of nature—a perfect, stress-free start to the day.
If you plan to bring a boat, convenient boat parking is available (please inquire for details). Kids are welcome to bring bikes and outdoor games to enjoy during your stay.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
TnT’s Lake Cabin at Kinkaid
20. TnT’s Lake Cabin at Kinkaid
100%
(1)
8.1mi from Ava · 1 site
🌲 Cozy Cabin Near Kinkaid Lake – Murphysboro, IL 🌊
Our charming cabin is located just 1/4 mile from Kinkaid Lake, the marina, and public boat ramp, right outside Murphysboro, Illinois.
🏡 2 Bedrooms | 1½ Baths | Sleeps 6
Enjoy all the comforts of home, including:
✔️ WiFi
✔ Fully stocked kitchen with microwave, coffee & coffee pot
✔ Small back deck with BBQ grill & utensils
✔ Fire pit with wood provided
✔ Ample boat parking
Whether you’re boating, fishing, hunting, hiking, or simply relaxing in the heart of Southern Illinois and the beautiful Shawnee National Forest, our cabin is the perfect getaway.
Come stay with us and enjoy lake life at its best! 🌅
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
K
Kevin
2 days ago
Tent
Jon was an amazing host, fun to chat with, and provided water included with the site.
Site had a fire pit with grill and a bin for wood/trash. The firewood plus kindling for sale was a great value.
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P
Paul
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
Wine Trail Wilderness is a really beautiful location, but, frankly, so are a lot of Hipcamp sites. What makes WTW stand out head and shoulders above all the other Hipcamps I've stayed at is Jon's amazing attention to detail. He is obsessive about making sure that every camper has the experience HE would want to have if he were the camper... and he has thought of EVERYTHING. For instance, if you order firewood, it's waiting for you at your campsite in a rain-proof footlocker, with kindling, paper, and a butane firestick! And fresh water is waiting for you in a 10-gallon water cooler... with ice in it! These are just two of a dozen examples I could give of the little details Jon has thought of in order to make every camper's experience the best it can be. WTW will be a regular stop for us from here on out! Thank you, Jon.
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Travis
1 week ago
Tent
Loved camping at the gazebo Jon has on his land! Had an amazing time exploring the area and trails. Would definitely recommend and stay here again!
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N
Nina
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
We had a great time camping at Wine Trail Wilderness. We loved the spacious sites, shady, level sites, situated far apart from other campers. The composting toilet was very clean and well maintained. Jon provided delicious, ice cold well water, checked in frequently, and gave us good information on local sites and hiking trails. He could not have been nicer. We highly recommend Jon’s property.
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G
Gregory
2 weeks ago
31 ft travel trailer
Wonderful peaceful site! Concrete pad, lots of green grass fields, well maintained, only 2 spots and well spaced apart. Been a few times and plan to go more!
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A
Azure
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
This place is a magical sanctuary that heals the heart and soul! This place became very special to my heart during our stay because of the scenery, the Host (Harless aka Harley) and how peaceful it is there! Harley is so friendly, kind, and caring and we are so grateful that we made a new dear friend! He answered all of our questions, gave great area recommendations, and even made sure we had plenty of fire wood! He has great restaurant recommendations should you choose to make that short 15 minute drive into town! We only we in for one meal. Harley invited us to Northtown Tavern for a crawfish boil while we were there and the crawfish boil and the pizza did not disappoint! It was delicious! But what made it really special was the people and the atmosphere! This was an experience for the books and we will be back for years to come! My husband, daughter, myself, our 2 dogs and cat stayed at site 10 and we fit comfortably! The camp site and the location was perfect! There is constant running water sounds and you are right on the Castor River! The shut ins were breathtaking! We cant wait to go back!
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K
Katherine
2 weeks ago
25 ft travel trailer
With pets
Perfect camping spot! Jon was welcoming to our family and pup. We got in late and Jon set a fire so our small one wasn’t cold. Much appreciated! Instead of a packed campsite, we had room to spread out. We will be back again.
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denise
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
This is our second year at Wine Trail Wilderness Hip Camp. We love it. The land is beautiful, quiet and so expertly maintained, we plan to go every year. It’s close to the Little Grand Canyon which we love to hike. Jon’s an excellent host and his attention to detail is remarkable.
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J
Jeremy
2 weeks ago
Tent
Amazing piece of land. It was really serene! Grateful for Jon and his family for sharing it with me. The little details they put into each site and location is a testament to why they are recognized as a top Hipcamp location!
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Susan
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We loved tent camping at Jon’s! The area was beautiful and very well maintained. They were kind enough to have water and firewood available and even had an outhouse conveniently located to our site. There were many thoughtful touches, you could tell they took pride in providing a great experience.
Our dogs loved the opportunity to explore the big field, and we loved the opportunity to try some local wine from the winery next door.
We would definitely stay here again!
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Cailin
April 2026
Tent
We always have the best time at Jon’s place! Practically had the place to ourselves. Jon is great about checking in and getting you anything you need for a good time! We will be back as always!!
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Zinnia
April 2026
Tent
With pets
Great experience at Jon's place, he went above and beyond to make us comfortable, bathroom was very clean and the bocce court was very fun to have for the kids.
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Adam
April 2026
Tent
Jon was very welcoming and we appreciated the water he left out for us. The surrounding area was beautiful and campsite was perfectly tucked away for quiet and relaxation. Would highly recommend 10/10!
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L
Lyn
April 2026
20 ft travel trailer
This is a super basic camp spot. Great for a quick overnight. What made this an absolute must stop is the owner, the staff, and patrons, of the brewery. The food and drinks are insane! I hope I get a chance to stay again!
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D
Donna
April 2026
Tent
With pets
Nice to have electric in the middle of nowhere! Nice location and pretty area.
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Allison
April 2026
40 ft Class A
Stopped by while traveling through - great little spot to get some rest.
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Alicia
April 2026
Tent
Group trip
The road coming out was beautiful! Loved the land we camped on and the Grainzebo was awesome!
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Ryan
April 2026
22 ft travel trailer
Wine trail wilderness delivered again and never disappoints. Thanks Jon for another great stay
Ryan and Tanya
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Nathan
April 2026
27 ft travel trailer
With pets
This place is Awesome! If you’re into camping 5 yards from the river then this is the place for you. We camped here on Easter weekend so we had the entire place to ourselves. Harless was a great host and went out of his way to make sure we were safe and comfortable. There was a 3.5” rain in the middle the night and he was right there the next morning to warn us about the river rising and made sure we were safe. We ended up hooking up and leaving for the day to have lunch and antiquing and returned after the river went down to finish out the weekend. He even offered to refund our $ for the inconvenience! That’s one thing we love about booking through Hipcamp; you meet some of the nicest people and the camps are usually superior than any State Park or Forestry campground. We will be returning to this one.
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Gary
April 2026
22 ft campervan
It was a great experience the first time, so we came back. The hosts are warm and welcoming, and we love hiking through the fields with our dogs. It is a little off the beaten path but worth the drive. Quiet and private. If you are driving between the Southeast and the Midwest or the Northwest, this is a great place to stop.
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