97% (1.1K) • 1,390 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Makanda
Wine Trail Wilderness
1. Wine Trail Wilderness
100%
(688)
7.2mi from Makanda · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pond Ridge Adventure
2. Pond Ridge Adventure
98%
(33)
11mi from Makanda · 35 sites
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
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Big Muddy Brewing
3. Big Muddy Brewing
96%
(47)
12mi from Makanda · 42 sites · Tents, RVs
Big Muddy Brewing is 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 Bavarian pretzels, Flatbread pizzas and more.
Located in the heart of Southern Illinois, minutes from the Shawnee National Forest, Kinkaid Lake, Murphysboro State Park & Southern Illinois University.
Check our Facebook page for schedule of music and events.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Giant City State Park
4. Giant City State Park
83%
(3)
State park 2.9mi from Makanda · 65 sites
Sandstone and forest converge for fantastic camping, climbing, and hiking in southern Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Trail of Tears State Forest
5. Trail of Tears State Forest
State forest 9.2mi from Makanda · 14 sites
Hike, hunt, and horseback ride at this conservation area in southwestern Illinois.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Tall Tree Lake
6. Tall Tree Lake
98%
(48)
19mi from Makanda · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Red Gate Farm, LLC
7. Red Gate Farm, LLC
92%
(12)
22mi from Makanda · 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
Robyn M.’s Land
8. Robyn M.’s Land
90%
(10)
22mi from Makanda · 80 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ridge Camping Private
9. Ridge Camping Private
100%
(10)
22mi from Makanda · 33 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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!!!!!!!!!!!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Shawnee National Forest
10. Shawnee National Forest
95%
(30)
National forest 46mi from Makanda · 172 sites
Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Murphysboro State Park
11. Lake Murphysboro State Park
State park 14mi from Makanda · 61 sites
Camp like a star at this lake and forested wilderness area in southern Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ferne Clyffe State Park
12. Ferne Clyffe State Park
100%
(1)
State park 15mi from Makanda · 84 sites
There's secret treasure to be found here in the Land of Lincoln.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Trail of Tears State Park
13. Trail of Tears State Park
100%
(1)
State park 17mi from Makanda · 52 sites
River landscapes, recreation, and history abound at this park.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Grand Chain Vineyards
14. Grand Chain Vineyards
92%
(19)
30mi from Makanda · 23 sites · Tents, RVs
The RV Resort at Grand Chain Vineyards features 25 full-hookup pull-thru campsites nestled in the center of Grand Chain Vineyards overlooking the Ohio River. Grand Chain Vineyards is a 60+ acre estate of rolling hills and vineyards overlooking the beautiful Ohio River with on-site Winery, RV Resort, Event Venue, Cabins & Rooms, and Restaurant "Due South" BBQ & Grill.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting
15. Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting
100%
(14)
35mi from Makanda · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Experience unparalleled privacy, seclusion, and the soothing sounds of nature during your stay in this expansive and distinctive retreat. Unlike any other private property in the vicinity, our land boasts an array of natural features including ponds, waterfalls, cliffs, bluffs, fields, forests, trails, and creeks scattered throughout.
With several trails branching out in all directions into the Shawnee National Forest, exploration opportunities abound. Each of our spacious campsites is thoughtfully designed to afford maximum privacy, ensuring a peaceful and undisturbed retreat into nature.
Just a short 5-10 minute drive down the road, Burden Falls awaits, offering a scenic natural wonder to explore. The Garden of the Gods, another iconic attraction, is a mere 15-20 minute drive away, inviting you to marvel at its breathtaking rock formations and panoramic vistas.
For added convenience and indulgence, homemade breakfast and lunch sandwiches are available upon request, allowing you to savor delicious meals without the hassle of preparation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and indulge in the ultimate retreat experience at our unique property.
ATTENTION- I allow animals, but they are NOT ALLOWED ON THE FURNITURE! If you let your animals on the couch/bed I will charge an extra fee for professional cleaning. Bring a dog bed/ cat bed etc.
There is also an outhouse located on the property for your convenience.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Sonny Hills
16. Sonny Hills
100%
(83)
42mi from Makanda · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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/1 bath, sleeps 4, possible 5, with the foot stool/ table that makes a small child size bed. Completely modernized, with heating/ac. Full kitchen with stove, dishwasher, microwave, refrigerator, dual flex coffee maker, pots, pans, crock pot, toaster, all utensils. Coffee, creamer, sugar, cooking oil, aluminum foil and condiments. Laundry. Outside Grill.
Large Great room, with native sandstone fireplace that is 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. Firepit, plenty of DVD's and games, or stream your own channels with Wi-fi.
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. Clean Porta-Potty on premises. No showers.
It is HIGHLY suggested that campers arrive at dusk or before sunset. The entrance to the area is not marked by lights, only a reflective triangle with the house number. The driveway 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). 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. There is a beach area for swimming.
All above activities are done at your own risk, children must be supervised.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm
17. Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm
99%
(35)
45mi from Makanda · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Art Farm
18. The Art Farm
98%
(212)
49mi from Makanda · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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. :)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch
19. Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch
100%
(13)
49mi from Makanda · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
We have five campsites in 135 acres of acres of forest and ranch land in our working cattle and sheep ranch. Located in a serene valley in the Ozark Highlands, the Ranch has Sheep, Scottish Highland Cattle, Chickens, Ducks and Great Pyrenees livestock guard dogs (only in the sheep pastures - and they are friendly). If you want to meet our animals and see the farm we are happy to show you around!
This is a unique site located in the Ozark Highlands. Only 45 minutes from Cape Girardeau (a small river town on the Mississippi), and 45 minutes from the Arcadia Valley including Taum Sauk mountain (the highest point in Missouri), Elephant Rocks, the Johnston Shutins, and other beautiful areas in the highlands.
The farm is five minutes from Marble Hill, which is home to the Bollinger County Natural History museum which highlights the only dinosaur bones found in Missouri. The bones were found at a farm in Glennallen (a few minutes from our farm) as well as a great barbeque (Jay’s Restaurant) and a good catfish restaurant (Jers Restaurant). On the way to our farm, feel free to stop at the 1,700 foot deep artesian well to get a cool, refreshing jug of natural artesian well water – the water is free, but you have to bring your own containers!
We are two and a half hours southwest of St. Louis, and two and half hours northwest of Memphis.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Cozy Cabin
20. Cozy Cabin
7mi from Makanda · 1 site
Relax with the whole family at this peaceful getaway! Nestled on 5 acres of woods, this cozy cabin has everything you need. It’s close to many wineries and hiking trails, and perfect for parents with students at SIUC—we’re only 20 minutes from Carbondale! Located right on the Shawnee Wine Trail.
The cabin sleeps 6 comfortably, with a queen bed, a full bed, two twin beds, and a couch. Dogs are welcome (maximum of 2). Enjoy your morning coffee on the front porch, splash in the creek on the property, explore the woods, or gather around the outdoor fire pit for a cozy bonfire.
This off-grid retreat runs on solar power and includes a fully functional kitchen and bathroom.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
K
Katherine
3 days ago
25 ft travel trailer
With pets
Perfect camping spot! Jon was welcoming to our family and pup. We got in late and Jon set a fire so our small one wasn’t cold. Much appreciated! Instead of a packed campsite, we had room to spread out. We will be back again.
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S
Sue
4 days ago
16 ft car
Beautiful spot with pond music (cricket frogs) and various birds and a deer to watch across the pond. Jennifer and hubby (John?) were lovely and welcoming. Love that they appreciate dark skies!! Would definitely return!!!!
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W
Wade
5 days ago
Tent
What a delightful place a.d wonderful hosts! I chose primitive camping, because that was the only available, I look forward to having a peek in the cabins! Secluded, yet close to the things that are needed
Beautiful landscape, plenty of space, quiet, stars, a hot outdoor shower. What a treat. I would stay again when in the area.
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J
Jeremy
5 days ago
Tent
Amazing piece of land. It was really serene! Grateful for Jon and his family for sharing it with me. The little details they put into each site and location is a testament to why they are recognized as a top Hipcamp location!
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C
Colette Y.
1 week ago
16 ft campervan
The property itself was breathtaking, with rolling Fields and numerous places to sit down and appreciate the beauty of nature. I was extremely excited to see a hot water shower outside which I will be recreating at my house!
I was in my campervan and felt safe and pleased to utilize clean port-o-lets.
The host was delightful as well.
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M
Mom's
1 week ago
Tent
What a beautiful place! Thanks for welcoming me and letting me share property on my journey. Will be back. The sweet kitty kept me company while I packed up.
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C
Cailin
2 weeks ago
Tent
We always have the best time at Jon’s place! Practically had the place to ourselves. Jon is great about checking in and getting you anything you need for a good time! We will be back as always!!
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L
Lori
2 weeks ago
29 ft travel trailer
We were delighted with this campsite. It was a gorgeous location. Peaceful. Easy pull through site. No leveling needed. Dogs were relaxed as they were able to stretch out after a long drive.
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Zinnia
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Great experience at Jon's place, he went above and beyond to make us comfortable, bathroom was very clean and the bocce court was very fun to have for the kids.
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Adam
2 weeks ago
Tent
Jon was very welcoming and we appreciated the water he left out for us. The surrounding area was beautiful and campsite was perfectly tucked away for quiet and relaxation. Would highly recommend 10/10!
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L
Lyn
2 weeks ago
20 ft travel trailer
This is a super basic camp spot. Great for a quick overnight. What made this an absolute must stop is the owner, the staff, and patrons, of the brewery. The food and drinks are insane! I hope I get a chance to stay again!
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D
Dorine
2 weeks ago
Tent
The animals are all friendly and well cared for. I felt free to roam around and I took some photos. Plenty of room to walk around. There is a store with fresh fresh fresh from the farm items, its only open on Saturday but as a guest you might be able to still purchase milk, eggs, ice cream and meats.
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L
Leo
2 weeks ago
17 ft travel trailer
Campsite excellent! Restaurant on-site was delicious. Disappointed with winery. It was closed.
See moreB
Blake
April 2026
S
Shaunna
April 2026
Tent
With pets
I loved tent camping here! It had everything a nature lover could dream of. Rock formations with waterfalls, grassland, a small pond and big open skies!
Susan was a great hostess and met me to show me the site. They had wood prepped for me in the fire ring and gave me complete privacy. They did check on me but I had everything I needed.
Shawnee parks near by had a lot to offer and I got two full days of hiking in.
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Allison
April 2026
40 ft Class A
Stopped by while traveling through - great little spot to get some rest.
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Alicia
April 2026
Tent
Group trip
The road coming out was beautiful! Loved the land we camped on and the Grainzebo was awesome!
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Ryan
April 2026
22 ft travel trailer
Wine trail wilderness delivered again and never disappoints. Thanks Jon for another great stay
Ryan and Tanya
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G
Gregory
April 2026
20 ft Class B
With pets
Secluded, well maintained. Great for our dogs and us. No complaints!
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Dawn
April 2026
18 ft campervan
I had the most peaceful night here. Laura has an unbelievably beautiful piece of property! There is so much space to find a spot or roam around. The cabins are adorable and there is an outdoor shower. I would definitely recommend this Hipcamp to anyone!
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