Camping in Carbondale, IL, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2023

United States
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Illinois
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Carbondale

97% (5007 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Carbondale

Within one hour of Carbondale

Top camping destinations

Mark Twain National Forest

453 campgrounds

Shawnee National Forest

Washington State Park

384 campgrounds

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

Star Hosts in Carbondale

100%

(432)

Wine Trail Wilderness

11 sites · RVs, Tents37 acres · Pomona, Jackson

We call our home "The Villa". It looks like an Italian villa structure appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest. It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy provided by an array of 18 solar panels. 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 great place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the relaxed feel we get living out here in the woods when you come visit. We will be happy to help you feel at home out here.

100%

(134)

Glamp Games Retreat

5 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Oakdale, Washington

You’ve Arrived! This privately owned land is 15 minutes south of Highway 64 and one hour from St. Louis. Your stay here includes access to a large indoor area with games via a keypad entry. The games include air hockey, ping pong, corn hole and fooseball. During favorable weather an outdoor basketball hoop will be set up. There is access to water from an outdoor hydrant and two separate 50 amp hook-ups are available if reserved (site 1 or site 3). The water from the hydrant is drinkable as it comes from the county water supply. Standard electrical outlets are available from inside the building. There is also a refrigerator that is shared/available to use provided that you do not leave anything in it upon your departure. The freezer side has ice-packs that you can help yourself to/take what you need. The building has speakers with a bluetooth adapter that you can connect with your phone to play music. There is not a dump station/black water disposal. There is an outhouse toilet. The property contains Elkhorn creek which flows year round, but is very shallow. The creek follows near the western and southern portion of the attached property. Children will need to be supervised as even shallow water can be dangerous. There are three wide hiking paths that can be enjoyed with leave no trace principles. The forest is home to whitetail deer, raccoon, woodpeckers, a barred owl, frogs, chipmunks and squirrels. Nearby attractions include a nature preserve, Washington County State Recreation Area (boat ramp access and possible dump station), the Rainbow Ranch, and various Illinois State Parks. If you want to get off the beaten path there is a wonderful butcher shop/sundries called Waller’s Market that is 10 minutes to the west and the town of Nashville is 15 minutes to the east and has various shops and grocery stores. Less than 5 minutes to the south is the B & B Quick mart. The roads are very well maintained and easily navigable weather you drive a compact car, pull a travel trailer, or have a Class A. The road is paved. There is excellent cell phone reception. The indoor wood-stove and the overhead door are not to be used. Please close all doors, turn off all lights and make sure everything is locked up before you leave the site. If you have a young child, please let me know so I can remove the ping pong and fooseballs at your request for safety purposes. By booking your stay you are agreeing that you will abide by the above rules and not hold the land owner or other parties involved liable for your health and safety. Please continue to take good care of the space so that others may also enjoy time with their friends and families.

99%

(34)

Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Eldorado, Saline

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.

98%

(116)

Riverview Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Grand Chain, Pulaski

12 top campgrounds near Carbondale

100%

(432)

Wine Trail Wilderness

11 sites · RVs, Tents37 acres · Pomona, Jackson

We call our home "The Villa". It looks like an Italian villa structure appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest. It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy provided by an array of 18 solar panels. 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 great place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the relaxed feel we get living out here in the woods when you come visit. We will be happy to help you feel at home out here.

Booked 3 times

Swallowdale farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents65 acres · Carbondale, Jackson

50 acres of private land close to Carbondale. Primitive campsites in woods. Less than 2 miles from downtown Carbondale. Southern Illinois university as well as wine trails and natural land formation and lakes. It’s the perfect area for nature lovers. We are working to get improvements to the campsites and will update as we accomplish this

100%

(1)

Big Muddy Brewing

22 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Murphysboro, Jackson

Big Muddy Brewing - Dead Center For 2024 Total Eclipse "The Great Gig In The Sky" Camping that week includes music: Monolithic Pink Floyd Night Shows Ivas John Band Adlar Planetarium Presentations including Star Gazing 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.

100%

(5)

⭐ Cozy Log Cabin with Hot Tub ⭐

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Cape Girardeau, Cape Girardeau

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

94%

(8)

Red Gate Farm, LLC

2 sites · Lodging, Tents50 acres · Creal Springs, Williamson

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! In addition to our working farm including dairy goats, free-range hens, and forest-raised heritage hogs, depending on when you come, you may also be able to observe some of the wild horses that come here for gentling, or even observe our gorgeous Gypsy Vanner at work on the farm! Better yet, for an additional fee, you can take advantage of one or more hands-on opportunities we offer! 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. Thus, we are kicking off our Grand Opening of the new sites. We are excited to offer a steeply discounted rate for 2023, with the understanding that our new Hipcamp sites are still being developed. 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.

100%

(1)

Camp Cauldron

35 sites · Tents20 acres · Mulkeytown, Franklin

Cauldron and Fire Farms is home to Cauldron and Fire Coffee roasters and the Cauldron and Fire Cultural Development Center NFP. The property boasts 20 acres of rolling hills, secluded forest, wildlife (Oh My, the BUTTERFLIES!!!) and more, all in a beautiful countryside setting. Located 15 minutes off the main highway and minutes to Rend Lake. Learn more about this land:Open 22.5 acre rolling hill location home to the Cauldron and Fire Cultural Development Center. Quiet natural surroundings and close to Rend Lake!!!!

Booked 1 time

Solar Eclipse 2024 Campsites

98 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Ava, Jackson

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

100%

(3)

Cauldron and Fire Farms

25 sites · Tents22 acres · Mulkeytown, Franklin

Learn more about this land:Our grass covered lightly rolling hills will provide beautiful family camping opportunities, Located less then 6 miles from Rend Lake. Porta John onsite.

Ruff Neck Campsite

30 sites · TentsCarbondale , Williamson

Located in Southern Illinois, home to the Saluki. Ruff Neck Campsite offers a great location just 2 miles from Walker's Bluff, Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge (Shawnee Forest), and town amenities. The campsite is a great place to see the wildlife and if you are lucky, catch a glimps of the Bald Eagle 🦅Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent at the Ruff Neck Campsite. Located 2 miles from Walker's Bluff, Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, and town with eateries.

100%

(3)

Ridge Camping Private

34 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents42 acres · Mill Creek, Alexander

Learn more about this land: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!!!!!!!!!!!

100%

(2)

Crystal Springs

1 site · RV10 acres · De Soto, Williamson

Learn more about this land: This is the premiere swimming hole in S Il. We have a rope swing, and high dive. We have friends from Idaho who have come back to visit. You won't know until you've seen it. 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.

Booked 3 times

Eclipse Camping-Kinkaid Lake ILOzrk

10 sites · Tents4 acres · Murphysboro, Jackson

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 $80 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!

Under $50

100%

(1)

Big Muddy Brewing

22 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Murphysboro, Jackson

Big Muddy Brewing - Dead Center For 2024 Total Eclipse "The Great Gig In The Sky" Camping that week includes music: Monolithic Pink Floyd Night Shows Ivas John Band Adlar Planetarium Presentations including Star Gazing 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.

Red Gate Farm, LLC

2 sites · Lodging, Tents50 acres · Creal Springs, Williamson

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! In addition to our working farm including dairy goats, free-range hens, and forest-raised heritage hogs, depending on when you come, you may also be able to observe some of the wild horses that come here for gentling, or even observe our gorgeous Gypsy Vanner at work on the farm! Better yet, for an additional fee, you can take advantage of one or more hands-on opportunities we offer! 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. Thus, we are kicking off our Grand Opening of the new sites. We are excited to offer a steeply discounted rate for 2023, with the understanding that our new Hipcamp sites are still being developed. 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.

Wine Trail Wilderness

11 sites · RVs, Tents37 acres · Pomona, Jackson

We call our home "The Villa". It looks like an Italian villa structure appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest. It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy provided by an array of 18 solar panels. 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 great place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the relaxed feel we get living out here in the woods when you come visit. We will be happy to help you feel at home out here.

Swallowdale farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents65 acres · Carbondale, Jackson

50 acres of private land close to Carbondale. Primitive campsites in woods. Less than 2 miles from downtown Carbondale. Southern Illinois university as well as wine trails and natural land formation and lakes. It’s the perfect area for nature lovers. We are working to get improvements to the campsites and will update as we accomplish this

Camp Cauldron

35 sites · Tents20 acres · Mulkeytown, Franklin

Cauldron and Fire Farms is home to Cauldron and Fire Coffee roasters and the Cauldron and Fire Cultural Development Center NFP. The property boasts 20 acres of rolling hills, secluded forest, wildlife (Oh My, the BUTTERFLIES!!!) and more, all in a beautiful countryside setting. Located 15 minutes off the main highway and minutes to Rend Lake. Learn more about this land:Open 22.5 acre rolling hill location home to the Cauldron and Fire Cultural Development Center. Quiet natural surroundings and close to Rend Lake!!!!

Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(432)

Wine Trail Wilderness

11 sites · RVs, Tents37 acres · Pomona, Jackson

We call our home "The Villa". It looks like an Italian villa structure appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest. It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy provided by an array of 18 solar panels. 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 great place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the relaxed feel we get living out here in the woods when you come visit. We will be happy to help you feel at home out here.

Red Gate Farm, LLC

2 sites · Lodging, Tents50 acres · Creal Springs, Williamson

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! In addition to our working farm including dairy goats, free-range hens, and forest-raised heritage hogs, depending on when you come, you may also be able to observe some of the wild horses that come here for gentling, or even observe our gorgeous Gypsy Vanner at work on the farm! Better yet, for an additional fee, you can take advantage of one or more hands-on opportunities we offer! 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. Thus, we are kicking off our Grand Opening of the new sites. We are excited to offer a steeply discounted rate for 2023, with the understanding that our new Hipcamp sites are still being developed. 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.

Camp Cauldron

35 sites · Tents20 acres · Mulkeytown, Franklin

Cauldron and Fire Farms is home to Cauldron and Fire Coffee roasters and the Cauldron and Fire Cultural Development Center NFP. The property boasts 20 acres of rolling hills, secluded forest, wildlife (Oh My, the BUTTERFLIES!!!) and more, all in a beautiful countryside setting. Located 15 minutes off the main highway and minutes to Rend Lake. Learn more about this land:Open 22.5 acre rolling hill location home to the Cauldron and Fire Cultural Development Center. Quiet natural surroundings and close to Rend Lake!!!!

Big Muddy Brewing

22 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Murphysboro, Jackson

Big Muddy Brewing - Dead Center For 2024 Total Eclipse "The Great Gig In The Sky" Camping that week includes music: Monolithic Pink Floyd Night Shows Ivas John Band Adlar Planetarium Presentations including Star Gazing 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.

Swallowdale farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents65 acres · Carbondale, Jackson

50 acres of private land close to Carbondale. Primitive campsites in woods. Less than 2 miles from downtown Carbondale. Southern Illinois university as well as wine trails and natural land formation and lakes. It’s the perfect area for nature lovers. We are working to get improvements to the campsites and will update as we accomplish this

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(4)

Pyramid State Recreation Area

Pinckneyville, Illinois

94%

(27)

Shawnee National Forest

Elizabethtown, Illinois

100%

(1)

Trail of Tears State Park

Washington County State Recreational Area

Nashville, Illinois

100%

(1)

Dixon Springs State Park

Simpson, Illinois

100%

(1)

Ferne Clyffe State Park

Goreville, Illinois

100%

(1)

Fort Massac State Park

Metropolis, Illinois

Lake Murphysboro State Park

Harrison, Illinois

Trail of Tears State Forest

Alto Pass, Illinois

Camping near Carbondale guide

Looking for the best camping near Carbondale? The area features dozens of top-rated campgrounds and places to park your RV for the night, many within a short distance of Illinois hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Whether you want a pet-friendly campsite or a family cabin rental with wifi, check out campsite photos, tips, and reviews from other outdoor enthusiasts to plan your next camping trip near Carbondale.