98% (891) • 1,806 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Benton
Red Gate Farm, LLC
1. Red Gate Farm, LLC
92%
(12)
25mi from Benton · 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
Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm
2. Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm
99%
(35)
27mi from Benton · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Off the Historic Goshen Trail that runs from mid-Illinois thru here to Alton, IL which is close to St.Louis, MO. Oldest house on the trail. 1922 farmhouse but homestead older than that.
Learn more about this land:
Tent or small camper welcome. Peaceful, farm work around you, fresh eggs available and friendly farmers. Firewood can be found in piles around the farm. Very quiet, wildlife crossings and lots of berries to pick.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Big Muddy Brewing
3. Big Muddy Brewing
96%
(47)
28mi from Benton · 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
Rend Lake
4. Rend Lake
100%
(2)
Park 3.9mi from Benton · 101 sites
Enjoy lake access, forests, and family-friendly camping at this classic Southern Illinois getaway.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area
5. Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area
State park 5.8mi from Benton · 33 sites
See what Rend Lake is all about at this state park in southern Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pond Ridge Adventure
6. Pond Ridge Adventure
98%
(33)
33mi from Benton · 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
Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting
7. Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting
100%
(14)
35mi from Benton · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Experience unparalleled privacy, seclusion, and the soothing sounds of nature during your stay in this expansive and distinctive retreat. Unlike any other private property in the vicinity, our land boasts an array of natural features including ponds, waterfalls, cliffs, bluffs, fields, forests, trails, and creeks scattered throughout.
With several trails branching out in all directions into the Shawnee National Forest, exploration opportunities abound. Each of our spacious campsites is thoughtfully designed to afford maximum privacy, ensuring a peaceful and undisturbed retreat into nature.
Just a short 5-10 minute drive down the road, Burden Falls awaits, offering a scenic natural wonder to explore. The Garden of the Gods, another iconic attraction, is a mere 15-20 minute drive away, inviting you to marvel at its breathtaking rock formations and panoramic vistas.
For added convenience and indulgence, homemade breakfast and lunch sandwiches are available upon request, allowing you to savor delicious meals without the hassle of preparation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and indulge in the ultimate retreat experience at our unique property.
ATTENTION- I allow animals, but they are NOT ALLOWED ON THE FURNITURE! If you let your animals on the couch/bed I will charge an extra fee for professional cleaning. Bring a dog bed/ cat bed etc.
There is also an outhouse located on the property for your convenience.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Wine Trail Wilderness
8. Wine Trail Wilderness
100%
(690)
36mi from Benton · 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
Tall Tree Lake
9. Tall Tree Lake
98%
(48)
37mi from Benton · 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 27mi from Benton · 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
Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area
11. Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area
State park 28mi from Benton · 76 sites
You're almost guaranteed to land a fish at this well-stocked lake.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Washington County State Recreational Area
12. Washington County State Recreational Area
100%
(1)
State park 30mi from Benton · 39 sites
Echoed by mourning dove calls that reverberate through the dew-licked pines and dotting the county's sun-kissed hillsides, Washington County State Recreational Area is teeming with fauna. This near-fifteen-hundred-acre ecological oasis is nestled just four miles from Nashville in southern Illinois―a far cry from it’s adjacent concrete jungles, aside from the skyscraper-like pines. And, criss crossed by the area’s two small creeks, Washington County State Recreational Area is inundated with well-populated, stable populations of largemouth bass and other like-sized game fish. Even if you’re not a fan of dancing bobbers, you’ll find situational ecstasy while dining under one of the park’s lake-hugging picnic pavilions, bathed in sunset yellows―and, let's face it, everyone’s a fan of solar acrobatics paired with well-made egg salad.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Murphysboro State Park
13. Lake Murphysboro State Park
State park 30mi from Benton · 61 sites
Camp like a star at this lake and forested wilderness area in southern Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sonny Hills
14. Sonny Hills
100%
(83)
38mi from Benton · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We live on 70 secluded acres adjoining the Shawnee National Forest area with some hiking opportunities, woods and water activities that we would love to share with you. Close to Garden of the Gods (10 min), Rimrock, Pounds Hollow, Belle Smith Springs, Lusk Creek and other trails. We are in the middle of the Shawnee surrounded by trees, our own lake, you can hike around and walk the land in solitude, yet we are only 25 minutes to Harrisburg. The closest grocery/merchandise store is only 5 minutes away.
Cabin- 2BR-1 Q, 1 K/1 bath, sleeps 4, possible 5, with the foot stool/ table that makes a small child size bed. Completely modernized, with heating/ac. Full kitchen with stove, dishwasher, microwave, refrigerator, dual flex coffee maker, pots, pans, crock pot, toaster, all utensils. Coffee, creamer, sugar, cooking oil, aluminum foil and condiments. Laundry. Outside Grill.
Large Great room, with native sandstone fireplace that is converted to gas for easy lighting. Back deck has beautiful views of the lake and hills. Enjoy the large front porch that adjoins the back deck and wraps around 3/4 of the cabin. Secluded, private. Firepit, plenty of DVD's and games, or stream your own channels with Wi-fi.
Tent and RV camping sites: Shade and sunny areas available. RV pads for self-contained campers. One Electric space available. Water available from spigot and hose. No sewer. Clean Porta-Potty on premises. No showers.
It is HIGHLY suggested that campers arrive at dusk or before sunset. The entrance to the area is not marked by lights, only a reflective triangle with the house number. The driveway is not lit, and the camp area also has no lights (better to see the stars). Contact us if arrival before nightfall is not possible and we can help guide you to the areas.
Pets and service dogs welcome with notice. All dogs and people Must be dog friendly (owner has 5 Irish Wolfhounds). Dogs must have proof of vaccinations.
Creeks, hills, hiking trails, and private pond full of bluegill and bass. Kayaks, paddleboards, canoe and boat for your use. NO lifeguard on duty. Life preservers/jackets must be worn when around the pond. There is a beach area for swimming.
All above activities are done at your own risk, children must be supervised.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Harmony Hill Acres
15. Harmony Hill Acres
98%
(29)
38mi from Benton · 8 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
Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking
16. Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking
100%
(14)
46mi from Benton · 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
Wildfire Ranch
17. Wildfire Ranch
5.7mi from Benton · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Wildfire Ranch is a licensed campground located in the heart of Southern Illinois. Wildfire Ranch is mainly geared toward equine events, with our focus on youth rodeos and barrel races, but we host many different types of events all year long!
At Wildfire Ranch, we offer plenty to do. We have a playground, mini-golf course, basketball court, and much more! You might even see a team of horses pulling the wagon! We would love for you and your family to come enjoy a weekend at Wildfire. See you soon!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Bubba J's RV Park
18. Bubba J's RV Park
88%
(4)
12mi from Benton · 13 sites
Welcome to Bubba J's RV Park.
85' + Pull Throughs with FULL hookups - 20/30/50 Amp Electric - year-round water (bring a pressure regulator, our water pressure is great!)- 4" sewer.
Huge clean restrooms (sorry, no showers).
Each site has a picnic table and fire pit (firewood NOT provided so please bring your own).
Pets
Full hookups
Crystal Springs
19. Crystal Springs
90%
(5)
19mi from Benton · 1 site
Learn more about this land:
No hook-ups just a place to park for the RV. Large enough for class A. Plenty of turn around room. Very quiet and private.
Pets
The Brokn L Camp
20. The Brokn L Camp
100%
(3)
28mi from Benton · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
The Brokn L Camp has 10 rolling acres with campsites. The property has two rock-pad sites for a tent or RV with a water spigot nearby. Our Positive Outlook site offers primitive tent camping with tree coverage. All campers have access to the outhouse facility, the lean-to, and the large fire-pit with free fire wood. Throughout the 10 acres campers can also use the private walking/ATV paths. The property is located right next to our 20 acre horse pasture and across the road from our horse riding arena. Campers can check on the availability for additional options to ride horses, rent a golf cart, and purchase fresh farm eggs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
K
Katherine
6 days 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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S
Sue
1 week ago
16 ft car
Beautiful spot with pond music (cricket frogs) and various birds and a deer to watch across the pond. Jennifer and hubby (John?) were lovely and welcoming. Love that they appreciate dark skies!! Would definitely return!!!!
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J
Jeremy
1 week 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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C
Cailin
2 weeks ago
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
2 weeks ago
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
2 weeks ago
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
3 weeks ago
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!
See moreB
Blake
April 2026
S
Shaunna
April 2026
Tent
With pets
I loved tent camping here! It had everything a nature lover could dream of. Rock formations with waterfalls, grassland, a small pond and big open skies!
Susan was a great hostess and met me to show me the site. They had wood prepped for me in the fire ring and gave me complete privacy. They did check on me but I had everything I needed.
Shawnee parks near by had a lot to offer and I got two full days of hiking in.
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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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G
Gregory
April 2026
20 ft Class B
With pets
Secluded, well maintained. Great for our dogs and us. No complaints!
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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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Angel
April 2026
Tent
Hosts were very kind and the land was gorgeous. Highly recommend
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Tim
March 2026
Tent
Group trip
I can't say enough good things about Wine Trail Wilderness. Jon and Carla are excellent hosts and took excellent care of our group when we were there. The whole vibe of the place is excellent and it's obvious they care about the happiness of their guests. Everything is well thought out, from the layout and privacy of each site down to smallest detail. I highly recommend staying there. I guarantee you won't be disappointed!!!!!
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Lori
March 2026
29 ft travel trailer
With pets
Fabulous! We arrived just as it got dark. The hosts greeted us to guide us to the spot to park. Super easy! Hosts were very friendly and welcoming! The camping site is beautiful. The dogs were free to run (and swim). It was peaceful and quiet. Would definitely recommend! We’ll be back!
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Tim
March 2026
Tent
The hiking club I'm a member of stayed at the Grainzebo site and we couldn't be more happy!!! Jon and Carla are simply the best. They accommodated a large group, basically catered to our needs and offered tips and suggestions on what to do and see in the area. The vibe at Wine Trail Wilderness is indescribable, great falls short of of our experience. Highly recommend and can't wait to get back. Keep up the great work!!!!
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Lorie
March 2026
1 night at Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting
The cabin in the woods was awesome! It has everything you need for a good nights stay. The view is beautiful. The area is so peaceful and quiet. Beautiful starry night sky. Close to many hiking areas!
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G
Greg
March 2026
Tent
Great secluded camp site next to the creek and cliffs of the national forest.
Burden Falls are just down the road, Garden of the Gods is about 30mins drive. Great hiking and sightseeing!
Sarah and Ron were very responsive, friendly, and made sure we had everything we needed.
10/10 - we'll be back for sure!
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