The best campgrounds near Carbondale, Illinois with hiking

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping adventures! Whether you're a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or a newbie looking to explore the beauty of nature, we've got you covered. With over 865 camping options near Carbondale, Illinois, specifically tailored for hiking enthusiasts like yourself, you're sure to find the perfect spot to set up camp. Looking for some top-rated campsites? Check out Spring Lake Ranch (522 reviews), Wine Trail Wilderness (291 reviews), and Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land (251 reviews). At an average price per night of $29 and options as low as $5, camping has never been more affordable. Plus, popular amenities like campfires, showers, and potable water ensure a comfortable stay. And if you're up for some extra adventure, you can indulge in activities like off-roading, swimming, and fishing. So pack your gear and get ready to embark on an unforgettable hiking and camping experience near Carbondale, Illinois!

95% (771)

Top-rated campgrounds

Gathering around the fire at Hickory Ridge Winery.

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping adventures! Whether you're a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or a newbie looking to explore the beauty of nature, we've got you covered. With over 865 camping options near Carbondale, Illinois, specifically tailored for hiking enthusiasts like yourself, you're sure to find the perfect spot to set up camp. Looking for some top-rated campsites? Check out Spring Lake Ranch (522 reviews), Wine Trail Wilderness (291 reviews), and Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land (251 reviews). At an average price per night of $29 and options as low as $5, camping has never been more affordable. Plus, popular amenities like campfires, showers, and potable water ensure a comfortable stay. And if you're up for some extra adventure, you can indulge in activities like off-roading, swimming, and fishing. So pack your gear and get ready to embark on an unforgettable hiking and camping experience near Carbondale, Illinois!

95% (771)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Wine Trail Wilderness

100%

(666)

9.6mi from Carbondale · 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. Tall Tree Lake

98%

(48)

23mi from Carbondale · 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.

3. Sonny Hills

100%

(77)

42mi from Carbondale · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Eddyville, IL

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/1BA sleeps 4- possible 5, huge foot stool/table makes small bed. Completely modernized, with Heating/ac, full kitchen with dishwasher, microwave and refrigerator, coffee pot, grill, laundry, NO INTERNET. Fully equipped Kitchen with all cooking utensils, crock pot, toasters, dual flex brew coffeemaker, plates, silverware, as well as coffee, creamer, sugar, cooking oil, aluminum foil, and condiments. Large great room, with native sandstone fireplace, that has been 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, Fire pit. Free firewood. Plenty of DVD's, and games. 2 night minimum. 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. Porta-Potty on premises. No showers. No Internet. It is HIGHLY suggested that campers arrive at dusk or before sunset. Quiet hour starts at 10:00 pm. The drive 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, and one small mix breed that runs the place). 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. All above activities are done at your own risk, children must be supervised.

4. Ridge Camping Private

100%

(8)

29mi from Carbondale · 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)

29mi from Carbondale · 81 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tamms, IL

6. Pond Ridge Adventure

98%

(33)

9.2mi from Carbondale · 35 sites · Tents · 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 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

7. Crystal Springs

90%

(5)

7.5mi from Carbondale · 1 site · RV · De Soto, IL

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.

8. Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm

99%

(35)

42mi from Carbondale · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Eldorado, IL

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.

9. Little Texas Farm and Lodge

100%

(3)

39mi from Carbondale · 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.

Camper favorites near Carbondale

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Ridge Camping Private

100%

(8)

29mi from Carbondale · 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!!!!!!!!!!!

Robyn M.’s Land

89%

(9)

29mi from Carbondale · 81 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tamms, IL

Pond Ridge Adventure

98%

(33)

9.2mi from Carbondale · 35 sites · Tents · 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 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

Crystal Springs

90%

(5)

7.5mi from Carbondale · 1 site · RV · De Soto, IL

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.

Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm

99%

(35)

42mi from Carbondale · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Eldorado, IL

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.

Little Texas Farm and Lodge

100%

(3)

39mi from Carbondale · 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.

Public campgrounds near Carbondale

Giant City Campground

9.2mi from Carbondale · 65 sites · Tents, RVs · in Giant City State Park

Lake Murphysboro Campground

9.7mi from Carbondale · 61 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Murphysboro State Park

Trail of Tears Campground

18mi from Carbondale · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Trail of Tears State Forest

100%

(1)

Johnson Creek Campground

18mi from Carbondale · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shawnee National Forest

Pine Hills Campground

18mi from Carbondale · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shawnee National Forest

Turkey Ridge Campground

19mi from Carbondale · 12 sites · in Ferne Clyffe State Park

Backpack Campground

19mi from Carbondale · 12 sites · in Ferne Clyffe State Park

Deer Ridge Campground

19mi from Carbondale · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ferne Clyffe State Park

Equestrian Campground

19mi from Carbondale · 1 site · in Ferne Clyffe State Park

100%

(1)

Trail of Tears Campground

23mi from Carbondale · 52 sites · Tents, RVs · in Trail of Tears State Park

100%

(4)

Pyramid Campground

24mi from Carbondale · 68 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pyramid State Recreation Area

Dale Miller Youth Campground

27mi from Carbondale · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Rend Lake

Stories from the community

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

J

James

2 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Great sites and great hosts! John was super helpful and accommodating, taught us how to play bocce ball on the court there, and even helped us with a maintenance issue on my camper. The grainzebo was awesome!!! Can't wait to go back.

Wilson

3 weeks 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

F

Frank

3 weeks 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

3 weeks 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

3 weeks 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!

M

Molly

October 2025

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

October 2025

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

October 2025

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

October 2025

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

October 2025

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.

p

patrick

October 2025

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!

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.

Scott

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm

Tent camping here is great. The folks I met were all very friendly and helpful. The place is an operational farm with chickens, geese, horses and lots of cats. Directions were clear and straight forward. You are very close to the small town of Eldorado Illinois and they have a great pizza place, mimmos and the Mexican restaurant in town I was told is very good. Very unique experience camping on active farm. Enjoyed it very much.

T

Tiffany

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Loved this camp site! Secluded, quiet, and Jon is a great host. It's located near so many hiking opportunities and wineries. We will definitely be back!!! 🦉