The best campgrounds near Equality, Illinois with swimming

In Equality, you’ll find over 740 campsites where swimming is front and centre. Average prices hover around $35 a night, with some spots dipping as low as $22. Many sites offer showers, toilets, and allow campfires—essentials after a day in the water. Locals head to Sonny Hills (49 reviews) for its easy lake access, or 15 Acre Wood on Lake (33 reviews) where you can swim, hike, and spot wildlife. If you want something quieter, Whiskey Meadows (2 reviews) gives you a secluded spot for a dip and a campfire. Choose your site, pack your towel, and jump in.

98% (120) • 21 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Equality

Sonny Hills

1. Sonny Hills

100%

(77)

11mi from Equality · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$25

/ night

Red Gate Farm, LLC

2. Red Gate Farm, LLC

92%

(12)

28mi from Equality · 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

from

$25

/ night

Whiskey Meadows

3. Whiskey Meadows

100%

(2)

47mi from Equality · 1 site · RV

Whiskey Meadows has a serene meadow view with a few shade trees that entice the use of a hammock. It has cell service, local restaurant ( .2 mi). The Parking area is about 200 Ft from the main road down a driveway. The location is within 10 minutes (5mi.) drive to KY Lake, Lake Barkley, Land Between the Lakes, downtown Grand Rivers, and Patties 1880 Settlement.

Electrical hookup

Pets

from

$60

/ night

Shawnee National Forest

4. Shawnee National Forest

94%

(27)

172 sites · Elizabethtown, Illinois

Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Dixon Springs State Park

5. Dixon Springs State Park

100%

(1)

23 sites · Simpson, Illinois

Rock your wilderness exploration at this geology-rich state park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

15 Acre Wood on Lake

6. 15 Acre Wood on Lake

95%

(43)

32mi from Equality · 3 sites · Tents

300 feet behind our house is a fire pit, then 15 acres of wood. around an acre lake. We have a boat and you can swim. There's an out house (and use of the woods is ok too) .There is plenty of wood and plenty of forest fun. No motorized Vehicles allowed. No weapons. No hunting. We want to share our land with other lovers of the woods, plants and animals. Like good "scouts", we expect our campers to leave the site the way they find it, tidy . We have recycle and trash containers. There is a drinking water source at the house. Responsible use of alcohol is accepted but drugs or anything that impairs physical safety, is prohibited.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$25

/ night

Whittington Woods Campground

7. Whittington Woods Campground

39mi from Equality · 127 sites

Experience the charm of our year-round campground, where nature meets comfort and community. Our unique location offers easy access to a variety of local attractions, including antique shopping, the Benton Country Club, the Corner Dance Hall, and the Mitchell Museum, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration. To ensure a seamless stay, please confirm your reservation by phone. Simply provide us with your contact number and a suitable time for us to reach out and finalize your booking. Our campground features a well-stocked store and a newly renovated swimming pool, complete with three spacious concrete steps for easy entry and exit. For larger gatherings, our expansive pavilion is perfect for family reunions, group events, or rallies, equipped with several picnic tables and a cozy fire pit for evening gatherings. Enjoy the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and comfortable amenities at our campground!

Harmonie State Park

8. Harmonie State Park

202 sites · New Harmony, Indiana

Discover Harmonie State Park's scenic trails and historic charm.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Rend Lake

9. Rend Lake

100%

(2)

101 sites · West City, Illinois

Enjoy lake access, forests, and family-friendly camping at this classic Southern Illinois getaway.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area

10. Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area

33 sites · Ina, Illinois

See what Rend Lake is all about at this state park in southern Illinois.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Barkley Lake

11. Barkley Lake

100%

(4)

191 sites · Grand Rivers, Kentucky

Make a splash at Lake Barkley, where everything from commercial marinas to bald eagle spottings will suit your every outdoor whim. A whopping 170,000 acres of recreation means you may have to extend your stay if you want to fit everything in on your to-do list. Kayak around the sparkling waters, fish the 57,000-acre lake for your next meal, or even hunt for some game. Nearby antique shops are the perfect spot to nab your next vintage typewriter, and a Civil War monument just adds to the historic significance. Whether you're interested in living off the land or grabbing a bite to eat at a renowned restaurant, Lake Barkley is your one-stop park for everything awesome.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park

12. Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park

214 sites · Gilbertsville, Kentucky

Discover Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park's natural splendor.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

In Equality, you’ll find over 740 campsites where swimming is front and centre. Average prices hover around $35 a night, with some spots dipping as low as $22. Many sites offer showers, toilets, and allow campfires—essentials after a day in the water. Locals head to Sonny Hills (49 reviews) for its easy lake access, or 15 Acre Wood on Lake (33 reviews) where you can swim, hike, and spot wildlife. If you want something quieter, Whiskey Meadows (2 reviews) gives you a secluded spot for a dip and a campfire. Choose your site, pack your towel, and jump in.

98% (120) • 21 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Equality

Sonny Hills

1. Sonny Hills

100%

(77)

11mi from Equality · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$25

/ night

Red Gate Farm, LLC

2. Red Gate Farm, LLC

92%

(12)

28mi from Equality · 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

from

$25

/ night

Whiskey Meadows

3. Whiskey Meadows

100%

(2)

47mi from Equality · 1 site · RV

Whiskey Meadows has a serene meadow view with a few shade trees that entice the use of a hammock. It has cell service, local restaurant ( .2 mi). The Parking area is about 200 Ft from the main road down a driveway. The location is within 10 minutes (5mi.) drive to KY Lake, Lake Barkley, Land Between the Lakes, downtown Grand Rivers, and Patties 1880 Settlement.

Electrical hookup

Pets

from

$60

/ night

Shawnee National Forest

4. Shawnee National Forest

94%

(27)

172 sites · Elizabethtown, Illinois

Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Dixon Springs State Park

5. Dixon Springs State Park

100%

(1)

23 sites · Simpson, Illinois

Rock your wilderness exploration at this geology-rich state park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

15 Acre Wood on Lake

6. 15 Acre Wood on Lake

95%

(43)

32mi from Equality · 3 sites · Tents

300 feet behind our house is a fire pit, then 15 acres of wood. around an acre lake. We have a boat and you can swim. There's an out house (and use of the woods is ok too) .There is plenty of wood and plenty of forest fun. No motorized Vehicles allowed. No weapons. No hunting. We want to share our land with other lovers of the woods, plants and animals. Like good "scouts", we expect our campers to leave the site the way they find it, tidy . We have recycle and trash containers. There is a drinking water source at the house. Responsible use of alcohol is accepted but drugs or anything that impairs physical safety, is prohibited.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$25

/ night

Whittington Woods Campground

7. Whittington Woods Campground

39mi from Equality · 127 sites

Experience the charm of our year-round campground, where nature meets comfort and community. Our unique location offers easy access to a variety of local attractions, including antique shopping, the Benton Country Club, the Corner Dance Hall, and the Mitchell Museum, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration. To ensure a seamless stay, please confirm your reservation by phone. Simply provide us with your contact number and a suitable time for us to reach out and finalize your booking. Our campground features a well-stocked store and a newly renovated swimming pool, complete with three spacious concrete steps for easy entry and exit. For larger gatherings, our expansive pavilion is perfect for family reunions, group events, or rallies, equipped with several picnic tables and a cozy fire pit for evening gatherings. Enjoy the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and comfortable amenities at our campground!

Harmonie State Park

8. Harmonie State Park

202 sites · New Harmony, Indiana

Discover Harmonie State Park's scenic trails and historic charm.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Rend Lake

9. Rend Lake

100%

(2)

101 sites · West City, Illinois

Enjoy lake access, forests, and family-friendly camping at this classic Southern Illinois getaway.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area

10. Wayne Fitzgerrell State Recreation Area

33 sites · Ina, Illinois

See what Rend Lake is all about at this state park in southern Illinois.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Barkley Lake

11. Barkley Lake

100%

(4)

191 sites · Grand Rivers, Kentucky

Make a splash at Lake Barkley, where everything from commercial marinas to bald eagle spottings will suit your every outdoor whim. A whopping 170,000 acres of recreation means you may have to extend your stay if you want to fit everything in on your to-do list. Kayak around the sparkling waters, fish the 57,000-acre lake for your next meal, or even hunt for some game. Nearby antique shops are the perfect spot to nab your next vintage typewriter, and a Civil War monument just adds to the historic significance. Whether you're interested in living off the land or grabbing a bite to eat at a renowned restaurant, Lake Barkley is your one-stop park for everything awesome.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park

12. Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park

214 sites · Gilbertsville, Kentucky

Discover Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park's natural splendor.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Allison

June 2025

22 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

This stop was a treat. Nothing will beat the site of 5 Irish Wolfhounds and Bill welcoming your car. The hosts were super accommodating and friendly. Had a great time getting to know them. Brautiful spot!

Yaya

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to 15 Acre Wood on Lake

The hosts were very nice and answered all of our questions including greeting us when we got there. The property was very pretty with a lot of woods. We swam in the water it was nice, it wasn’t dirty but a little swampy so maybe not for everyone- but we had fun. The place where we put our tent (and the water) is relatively close to their house. This was no problem for us as we weren’t bothered by them(not that we would have been, again hosts were very pleasant) but might not be ideal for someone looking to camp completely away from others. Really cool town not far from camp site.

M

Michael

May 2025

Tent

1 night at 15 Acre Wood on Lake

Great site next to a frog pond. Very lush and remote feeling. Camped in a tent and got rained on all night, but still had a great stay. Friendly host and a really cool spot!