The best forest campgrounds near Highland, Illinois

Camping in Highland’s forests puts you close to winding trails, quiet creeks, and stands of oak and hickory. With over 970 forest campsites in the area, you’ll find plenty of spots to pitch a tent under the trees. Most sites offer showers, toilets, and welcome pets—no need to rough it. Prices start at just $10 a night, with an average stay running $25. Hikers and wildlife-watchers love this terrain; you’ll spot deer at dawn and owls after dark. Fishing is a favorite at sites near rivers and lakes. Locals swear by Emerald Acres Farm (51 reviews), Triangle H Farm, LLC (35 reviews), and Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake (16 reviews) for easy access to trails and plenty of shade. Pack your boots and binoculars—Highland’s forests are ready.

93% (115)

Top-rated campgrounds

Camping in Highland’s forests puts you close to winding trails, quiet creeks, and stands of oak and hickory. With over 970 forest campsites in the area, you’ll find plenty of spots to pitch a tent under the trees. Most sites offer showers, toilets, and welcome pets—no need to rough it. Prices start at just $10 a night, with an average stay running $25. Hikers and wildlife-watchers love this terrain; you’ll spot deer at dawn and owls after dark. Fishing is a favorite at sites near rivers and lakes. Locals swear by Emerald Acres Farm (51 reviews), Triangle H Farm, LLC (35 reviews), and Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake (16 reviews) for easy access to trails and plenty of shade. Pack your boots and binoculars—Highland’s forests are ready.

93% (115)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Triangle H Farm, LLC

91%

(53)

19mi from Highland · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Edwardsville , IL

Once a large cattle operation, Triangle H Farm has evolved through being a corn, soybean and horseradish farm before its present use as a horse boarding, training, and lesson facility. As a matter of fact, depending upon the season, you can schedule a tour of our horseradish farm. We are top 10 producers of horseradish in the nation! Come see our 100 acres of camping possibilities and enjoy nature at its finest! We look forward to having you with us.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or plug in your RV (30 or 50 amp, or 110 volt) on our 110 acre horse farm. Choose between staying up closer to the barns or out in the timber. We have a nice primitive spot under a 100+ year old cottonwood tree that is near a stream. There is a picnic table there as well. About 1.25 mile down the trail from the main barn is a walnut grove with a picnic table. The same stream runs past the walnut grove. There is a spot for a fire too. If you want more rustic, feel free to cross the creek to the timber and choose a primitive camping spot there. Enjoy mowed trails to hike or bike. Water (from hydrants and hoses) and portopotty are up near main barns. We have 60 horses on the farm as well as goats, cats, and chickens. We do not offer access to horses unless you're in a riding lesson, or have scheduled a pony riding session. We look forward to sharing our little piece of heaven with you!

2. Middle Eden

86%

(7)

21mi from Highland · 2 sites · Tents · Fairview Heights, IL

Escape to Our 16-Acre Permaculture Paradise Nestled among majestic oaks, pecans, apples, hazelnuts, mulberries, and black/honey locusts, our developing agroforestry biome recreates the breathtaking pre-Columbian oak-hickory savanna. We’re passionate about sharing this regenerative haven with fellow nature lovers. Private Campsites with Thoughtful Amenities Each site features an established campfire ring and complimentary firewood—perfect for cozy evenings under the stars. Sites are a scenic 300–500 ft walk from parking (depending on your chosen spot). Secure Parking Note Parking is on a quiet dead-end road monitored by security cameras. It’s not secluded, so we don’t recommend car camping. Book now and immerse yourself in a living food forest—where camping meets ecological restoration.

3. Emerald Acres Farm

99%

(70)

16mi from Highland · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Worden, IL

Welcome to Emerald Acres, our hobby farm with 2 llamas, Nigerian dwarf goats, 1 pot bellied pig, and a few chickens, cats, and Stella, the livestock guardian dog! Our beautiful peaceful property is just 20 minutes from SIUE. It is a wonderful countryside property with forest and pastureland.

4. Carlyle Lake

100%

(1)

310 sites · Carlyle, Illinois

This vast lake with an abundance of wind is prime real estate for sailing, fishing and birding.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

5. Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

100%

(2)

366 sites · Carlyle, Illinois

Visit now because Eldon Hazlet could easily become the next hotspot of Illinois environmental adventure. With its open fields, breezy lakeside views, and expansive collection of wildlife, the largest park in Illinois is no less than a treasure. Partake in your favorite pastimes or try something new! Set sail on the lake, have a romantic picnic, take a dip in the pool: the options are endless! There’s nothing quite so relaxing as breathing in the fresh air at Eldon Hazlet.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

100%

(22)

48mi from Highland · 1 site · Lodging · Palmyra, IL

At Hidden Ridge, you will have the essential comforts of home while enjoying the serenity of a natural, peaceful setting. You will sleep on comfortable queen-size bed within a 14x16 canvas wall tent which is secured to a stilted deck providing beautiful views of the lake. A private outhouse with flushing toilet, hot shower and an outdoor cooking area are also available. More than just two of you? There is plenty of space for cots, air mattresses and additional tents. We encourage our guests to relax and recharge their spirits by unplugging from their electronic devices. Play games which are available at the camp. Enjoy boating, skiing or fishing on Otter Lake - you can have your boat in the water within minutes from camp! Sit quietly and watch the fish jump - you may even see an eagle fly by. Snuggle by the fire, roast marshmallows or sip a glass of wine from the local winery. To ensure your experience is as authentic as possible, Hidden Ridge is off grid. There is no electricity; enough water is provided for quick showers and bathroom use. Enjoy firelight, lanterns and cooking on an open fire or grill! We do provide cooking essentials. Winter heating is provided by a small propane heater. Our water is not suitable for drinking. Please bring drinking water with you. Verizon and AT&T service coverage is good - just plan to recharge from your automobile. Learn more about this land: Experience authentic camping in a private wooded hideaway located at Otter Lake, Girard, Illinois, just 10 minutes from old Route 66. Experience authentic camping in a private wooded hideaway located at Otter Lake, Girard, Illinois, just 10 minutes

7. Beaver Dam State Park

100%

(1)

76 sites · Chesterfield, Illinois

With such different ecosystems (we’re talking farmland, open fields, woodlands, lake, and a marsh) wrapped up in one park, Beaver Dam is the place to go see a vast variety of plants and animals. Hike any of the trails and have fun trying to keep count of all the creatures you see! Bring your bow and arrows to the archery range, or spend your time hunting the area. Getting the winter blues? Beaver Dam is open and ready for ice skaters or cross country skiers. Don’t just take our word for it, get down here!

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Toilets

Campfires

8. Washington County State Recreational Area

100%

(1)

39 sites · Nashville, Illinois

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.

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Toilets

Campfires

9. Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

135 sites · Ramsey, Illinois

With its rolling hills and timbered shoreline, Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area has become a popular spot for relaxation and recreation. Visitors enjoy quiet strolls in the forest, secluded picnicking, as well as more energetic activities.Fishing is huge here, so the lake is managed by draw-downs and stocking. Some species found are largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish and black crappie. Hit up the concession stand for supplies. Other popular pastimes include hunting (dove, pheasant, quail, deer) and winter sports like fishing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, sledding and ice skating. There’s even a 13-mile designated snowmobile trail.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

10. Pere Marquette State Park

100%

(2)

30 sites · Grafton, Illinois

See one of the most beautiful state parks in Illinois.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Public campgrounds near Highland

100%

(1)

Dam West Recreation Area and Campground

20mi from Highland · 109 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carlyle Lake

100%

(2)

Illini Campground

20mi from Highland · 366 sites · Tents, RVs · in Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area

Coles Creek Recreation Area and Campground

24mi from Highland · 119 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carlyle Lake

Boulder Campground

25mi from Highland · 82 sites · Tents, RVs · in Carlyle Lake

100%

(1)

Beaver Dam Campground

34mi from Highland · 76 sites · Tents, RVs · in Beaver Dam State Park

100%

(1)

Washington County Campground

38mi from Highland · 39 sites · Tents, RVs · in Washington County State Recreational Area

White Oak Campground

40mi from Highland · 90 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

Hickory Grove

40mi from Highland · 45 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

100%

(2)

Pere Marquette Campground

49mi from Highland · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pere Marquette State Park

Stories from the community

M

Monica

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Middle Eden

Unfortunately, I was unable to stay due to illness. Jeffrey was gracious and I will be reserving again soon! 🤞🤞

A

Adrian

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Middle Eden

Such a beautiful place! Safe and secure! I enjoyed being welcomed by the sweetest dog, she lead me right where to set up for the night. Waking up on a beautiful piece of land with sheep, chickens, fluffy sweet doggo, it was such a fun and much needed experience. 10/10 highly recommend!!

S

Samuel

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Middle Eden

BEAUTIFUL property. Owner is super nice and they love sharing the property that they have built. 10/10 would recommend!

J

Jason

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Triangle H Farm, LLC

Wonderful place! Very spacious and was exactly what we needed when we were in the area.

C

Chris

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Triangle H Farm, LLC

I enjoyed the secluded location and the quiet setting. I would stay again.

E

Ellie

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Triangle H Farm, LLC

We loved tent camping on Marcy’s land. The views were beautiful. My kids loved seeing the horses.

S

Stephanie

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

My husband and I have stayed here twice, and everything has been perfect both times. The property is beautiful and private, and the host provides so many thoughtful elements. It’s a perfect way to get out in nature without having to deal with all of the packing and preparation required for a typical camping trip.

B

Breanna

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Emerald Acres Farm

We were just passing through on a road trip so we weren’t able to stay for long, but we wish we could have stayed longer! The prairie was so pretty, the animals were fun, and Stella was such a sweetheart!

K

Kevin

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

Had a great time. Excellent communication, spacious tent, plenty of wood and everything we needed. Close to 2 small towns for food and ice cream. Fire pit was ready when we got there, all we had to do was toss in a match and start cooking!

S

Samuel

June 2025

28 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Triangle H Farm, LLC

Great place to stay overnight when passing through on I70.

A

Andrew

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

My wife and I made our second trip to Hidden Ridge to celebrate our 10th anniversary. The last time we stayed it was cold and raining the entire time and we still had such a great time that we knew we needed to come back. This place is genuinely a great find! We are normally tent campers so this setup almost feels like cheating and we compare it to renting out a cabin for the weekend. Probably the best part though is the responsiveness of the hosts. We did have a few hiccups with the water system while we were there but were always able to get ahold of the hosts and they got us back up and running quickly. It really does come across that they want you to enjoy your time at this location.

Hans

May 2025

Tent

1 night at Emerald Acres Farm

A serine camp site, wonderful bath and shower house. And adorable Great Pyrenees dog named Stalla. A wonderful host Monica.

Brett

May 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

We stayed at Hidden Ridge for the weekend and had an amazing experience. The campsite is secluded, yet still very easy to find. You can tell Terri put a lot of thought and care into every detail. The outdoor kitchen station was fully stocked with everything we needed—silverware, plates, cups, cooking utensils, and more. The bathroom and shower area was clean and super convenient. The glamping tent was spotless, and the bed was comfortable. One of my favorite moments was waking up in the morning and enjoying the peaceful view from the tent’s back porch. Terri also had plenty of firewood ready to go. It had rained just two hours before we arrived, but the fire pit and logs were all covered and dry—such a thoughtful touch. And to top it all off, the place is pet-friendly! My cattle dog had the time of his life exploring the area. I truly can’t wait to come back and stay here again. Highly recommend!

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William

May 2025

Tent

1 night at Triangle H Farm, LLC

Pink boot horse made me feel safe when hearing evil noises at night. Great portapotty too. Deceivingly cute bunny but definitely evil. I woke up to a cock a doodle doo which reminded me of when I grew up on the farm. Sad memories, shed a tear.

s

staci

May 2025

With pets

4 nights at Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

I don't know what I was expecting when I reserved this little camping spot, but it surpassed any and all expectations! This place is ADORABLE ... and cozy and homey and relaxing ... it was just perfect. And Teresa was a great host who checked in to make sure we had everything we needed. We travel to this part of Illinois on a regular basis to visit family/friends, and I have no doubt that we'll be staying here again in the future.

N

Nicholas

November 2024

Weekend Trip to Hidden Ridge - at Otter Lake

We had a great time staying at Hidden Ridge. Teresa had everything ready to go when we arrived and all we really had to bring was clothes, food, and water. We also brought a cast iron skillet so we could cook over the fire, but there is a charcoal grill there also. There’s no electricity on the property so you’ll also want to bring a headlamp or lantern in the event it’s raining and you can’t use the tiki torches. The property itself is really unique and situated up on a ridge overlooking the lake. We loved sitting out by the fire overlooking the lake. The tent itself is super welcoming and my wife definitely appreciated the actual bed in it. On one of the rainy afternoons we played a board game in the tent and still had a great time. The shower and bathroom were great to have and hot running water was definitely a camping luxury. We would highly recommend staying here and have already told several friends about it!