The best campgrounds near Cairo, Illinois with hiking

95% (820 reviews)

Cairo draws hikers with over 870 campsites in the area—a mix of riverside clearings, oak groves, and tucked-away meadows where trails cut right from your tent. Prices start at just $10 a night, with the average hovering around $10, so you don’t have to break the bank to spend a weekend on the trail. Bring your dog, pack your rod, and expect pet-friendly spots, hot showers, and campfires where the rules allow. Locals know Wine Trail Wilderness (509 reviews) for its trailheads and quiet woods. Women’s groups often choose The Art Farm Women's Retreat (159 reviews) for the community vibe and easy access to forest paths. For sunset fishing and a swim after your hike, Tall Tree Lake (36 reviews) is a solid pick. Wildlife-watching is a given—expect deer, foxes, and the occasional bald eagle if you keep your eyes open.

Popular camping styles for Cairo

Top-rated campgrounds

95% (820 reviews)

Cairo draws hikers with over 870 campsites in the area—a mix of riverside clearings, oak groves, and tucked-away meadows where trails cut right from your tent. Prices start at just $10 a night, with the average hovering around $10, so you don’t have to break the bank to spend a weekend on the trail. Bring your dog, pack your rod, and expect pet-friendly spots, hot showers, and campfires where the rules allow. Locals know Wine Trail Wilderness (509 reviews) for its trailheads and quiet woods. Women’s groups often choose The Art Farm Women's Retreat (159 reviews) for the community vibe and easy access to forest paths. For sunset fishing and a swim after your hike, Tall Tree Lake (36 reviews) is a solid pick. Wildlife-watching is a given—expect deer, foxes, and the occasional bald eagle if you keep your eyes open.

Popular camping styles for Cairo

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Wine Trail Wilderness

100%

(663)

45mi from Cairo · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · 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 and believe all should enjoy this beautiful part of the country. LGBTQ are all welcome and accepted. We welcome all types of campers.

2. The Art Farm

98%

(198)

22mi from Cairo · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Paducah, KY

The farm is women owned and operated. This 34 acres of rolling farmland, woods and pasture is surrounded by farmland and woodlands on all sides. Enjoy nature. Watch wildlife. Listen to the birds singing. You will often see deer in the evenings. Walk or drive to the main residence to enjoy the pool, hot tub and hot outdoor shower. (5 minute walk or 1 minute drive) We have a few dedicated women's campouts each year, and some art-making workshops, retreats, and quilting weekends, too. Other times we are open and inclusive of all. Native land of Chickasaw, Quapaw and Osage nations. LGBTQ friendly. :)

3. Flying D Ranch

100%

(12)

50mi from Cairo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Murray, KY

Rand McNally and USA Today have awarded Murray the title of “Friendliest Small Town in America." The award comes from the organizations' Best of the Road contest. RARE ONE OF A KIND space situated on over 26 beautifully manicured acres. Many unique features. a 50 amp, 30 amp and 110 RV hookup available. 2 stocked fishing ponds. Fabulous 50,000 gallon custom saltwater swimming pool accompanied by a spacious ranch style pavilion with outdoor kitchen and full bath. Fiber Optics internet , Smart television, Acres to choose a tent site, all mowed grass with trees for shade. Bass, catfish and blue gill abound. Bald Eagle and Osprey sightings. Red Tail and Red Shoulder hawks everywhere. Lessor Canadian Geese with families make the ponds home. Deer and turkey join us every day. Hiking path around both ponds and down past the pastures. Pool sits atop a hill to catch the breeze. Located a quarter mile away from the road for private and serene camping. Check in time is noon and check out is noon also. Located just 7 miles away from Murray State University. Corn fields, Soy beans and Tobacco fields are the main topographical features. 20 miles to Land Between the Lakes, 27 miles to Paris Landing, 18 miles to Mayfield.

4. Ridge Camping Private

100%

(8)

21mi from Cairo · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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!!!!!!!!!!!

5. Robyn M.’s Land

89%

(9)

21mi from Cairo · 81 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tamms, IL

6. Tall Tree Lake

98%

(48)

35mi from Cairo · 62 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

7. Little Texas Farm and Lodge

100%

(3)

35mi from Cairo · 1 site · Lodging · Grantsburg, IL

Located in the Southern Illinois Ozarks, this lodge and 600 acres are part of the Cache River Drainage area, an area recognized internationally as being ecologically unique. The Barn is located atop a limestone bluff; the property includes upland flora, wetland wildlife, row-crop fields, and has access on 2 sides to the Shawnee National Forest. Conveniently located to participate in the natural opportunities of S. Illinois.Learn more about this land:Bring the hot dogs and the beans, but leave the sleeping bag and tent behind. At Little Texas, you will spend your down-time in a 1600 foot, 3 BR, 3 bath lodge located 2/3 mile off the closest gravel road. Little Texas is a place for those who love the isolation of camping but also the amenities of a lodge/home. Full kitchen. Sleeps 8. Step outside for a view of the yard, the working windmill, the fields, trees, and the pond. Test your skill at sorting constellations from the spectacular array of stars. Located in Southernmost Illinois, the property sits on a limestone outcrop of the Ozarks which extend from Arkansas and Missouri across S. Illinois into westernmost Kentucky. Bordered on 2 sides by the 260,000 acre Shawnee National Forest, nature is literally just outside the door. When the hiker sits still, nature comes alive: deer, turkey, raccoons, skunks, beavers, and lots of birds.

8. Hidden Bluff Primitive Camp

75%

(4)

33mi from Cairo · 1 site · Tent, RV · Grantsburg, IL

Perfect for Tent, Car or Backpack camping, you can sleep under the stars, sit by the campfire, and view the beauty of nature on a gorgeous 5 acre woodland property located at the edge of the Shawnee National Forest. Nestled between Herron Pond, Cave Creek, Little Black Slough, and Mermet Swamps, Cache River State Nature Area, Ferne Cliff State Park, Sampsons Mountain, Lake Glendale, Little Grand Canyon, Dixon Springs State Park, Jackson Falls, Tunnel Hill State Trail, Dutchman Lake, Garden of the Gods, Burden Falls, Lake of Egypt, Giant City State Park, Cave-in-Rock State Park, and Belle Smith Springs, there is no shortage of beautiful scenery, great hiking, repelling, picnicking, boating, hunting, fishing, wildlife watching, and botanic wonders! It is also located between the Southern Illinois and Shawnee Hills Wine Trails.

Stories from the community

Grainzebo II and Bocce Court with 30 Amp electric Hook-Up. Close to Outhouse.

Wilson

5 days ago

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Our experience at Wine Trail Wilderness was great despite plunging temperatures this past weekend. The roomy site allowed for our 2 young dogs to zoom around the field and the pavilion and outhouse were experiences of themselves. Jon was a great host and fun to talk to when he was walking his dog Norton. The location between 2 of our favorite wineries was a bonus. The scenery with the fall colors was beautiful to see. We can’t wait to come back. Becky and Wilson

Gathering around the fire at Hickory Ridge Winery.

F

Frank

6 days ago

Tent

1 night at Wine Trail Wilderness

It was fantastic camping on Jon’s land he was the perfect host, very attentive and was willing to work with our schedule. It made for a great weekend of climbing at holy boulders… it’s like 15min from the boulders!

Kyle

1 week ago

19 ft pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Wine Trail Wilderness

This is the third time I've stayed at WTW. It was the first time staying in the far away field and we loved it. Jon checked in and would deliver firewood (if needed). I'm sure we will be back!

B

Bryson

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Beautiful campground with an awesome host! Will definitely stay again next time we are out this way!

Beautiful RV site in rolling Western Kentucky farm country. Close to all amenities, Paducah and I-24. Both 30 amp and 110 outlets, water spigot, hot tub and outdoor shower.

E

Elizabeth

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at The Art Farm

I loved camping on Laura's land! Porta-potty, shower, and hot tub are all near the site. It looks quiet, and the view across the field was lovely!

M

Molly

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

John and Carla were amazing hosts. They lead us to our site on their 4-wheeler, and even gave us a wine opener to borrow after we forgot to bring one. The campsite had everything we needed and was super clean, level, and open yet wooded. They came by to check on us after the first night. We were able to order firewood and wine from them ahead of time so it was at the site when we got there. This was amazing because we are usually trying to find space in the truck for firewood. They also provide ice water in a 5 gallon jug which saved us some packing space. We came with two dogs so we asked for one of their more private sites and they delivered. Didn’t see any other campers the entire weekend. Location is awesome for a variety of activities. I would love to return with my coworkers and this would be a perfect spot for our yearly camping trip. We also noticed lots of materials staged around the property so it seems like they are planning some improvements to their already amazing place. This wasn’t a problem for us but I wanted to mention as I know it can be a deal breaker for some. There was not a bathroom with running water, just a private privy in one of those little portable tents. It was cleaned and stocked and very much appreciated.

S

Samuel

3 weeks ago

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

The area was very accessible and was set up in a really nice convenient way. Jon met us at the driveway, greeted us with a warm smile and helped us get our water situated. After that he assisted me getting the trailer leveled and ready to go and made sure we had firewood. On Saturday, he came and checked on us and he's an incredible host and this was one of the best trips we had. Being within walking distance of a winery and a very short drive to another one is amazing and it was so quiet. And for the record I've never seen anybody have a better portable toilet outside than at Jon's property (Plus the bocce ball court was amazing and we had a great time playing with some people we met there as well this weekend). Suffice to say, we will definitely come back and visit Jon again and for anybody who may want a really great camping experience there is none better than what Jon provides.

Travis

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

We love WTW! We camp here multiple times a year and it's always well deserving of the best in Illinois title! Everything is taken care of and we just get to setup camp and relax.

M

Mimi

3 weeks ago

12 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

wine Trail wilderness was perfectly situated on Hickory Ridge Road close to two wineries! It was my first time to the wine trail in Shawnee national Forest and certainly there’s a lot to offer! Looking forward to going back!! Wine Trail wilderness was perfectly situated on Hickory Ridge Road close to two wineries! It was my first time to the wine trail in Shawnee national Forest and certainly there’s a lot to offer! Looking forward to going back JON was extremely accommodating and his land was ideal For hip camp travelers! Thank you WTW !

K

Kari

3 weeks ago

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

I enjoyed the evening on Jon's land. He was very helpful amd the site was beautiful! He had a big jug of ice water ready at the site too! There was a ready fire pit, but I chose not to have a fire since I was exhausted and wanted to sleep and get an early start the next day.

L

Lorie

3 weeks ago

1 night at The Art Farm

Tho cozy cabin was cozy! The place is lovely and peaceful. I enjoyed the fire pit and the millions of stars! I will be back when I can spend a few days. Laura the host was so friendly and made sure I had everything I needed.

p

patrick

3 weeks ago

4 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

We had a great time camping here. Jon was a great host. Checked on us every day. The campground was private. the other guests were very friendly. The trails nearby were very scenic. Would recommend it to any of my friends. We will camp here again I hope.

Kate & Austin

October 2025

19 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Excellent communication from the hosts! Very nice and accommodating people!

M

Michael

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at The Art Farm

Loved staying here! I spent a total of four days in the woods and it was the perfect spot to stay in the evening. I especially loved that the tent area was shaded while the camping pit was just a few feet away under the open sky. I didn’t have a hammock with me, but wished that I did because there were so many great spots to hang it. Having the shower was a blessing as well. It was great to be able to start the morning with a hot rinse.

S

Spence

October 2025

33 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

what you see online is what you get… Absolutely fantastic! John was awesome, the property is awesome. Secluded in a great back to nature. . I will be back with friends.

P

Paul

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Wine Trail Wilderness

Great spot, great location, wonderful host. What more can I say. We came for Snake Road, Little Grand Canyon, Wine Trail and Vulture Fest. Central location for all of the above!

J

Jenny

October 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Wine Trail Wilderness

Wonderful camping area with extras! The sites are well maintained with cold water waiting, firewood ready upon request, picnic tables and a table and chairs. It’s like an all inclusive resort of primitive camping! My family and I really enjoyed playing bocce ball and were very thankful for the owner of the property to come take the time to teach us how to play. It is also in a great location for visiting hiking trails and climbing areas. Thanks for having us!

Kate

October 2025

24 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Enjoyed my RV stay and our host’s hospitality. Jon was a great host who is working hard to make his property a nice place for guests. Well located to explore the Wine trial or western Shawnee hiking/biking.

S

Stephanie

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Jon was a fantastic host and made sure we had everything we needed. The site was spacious and beautiful. Highly recommend!

D

David

October 2025

26 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Jon really went to great lengths to make Wild Trail Wilderness a great camping experience. It's a beautiful property, nestled between 2 wineries, and close to the Little Grand Canyon hiking trail. This was our first time using Hipcamp and Jon set the bar very high for those that will follow. He is now the yardstick by which all others will be measured. We plan on going back.