The best river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Old Shawneetown, Illinois

River camping in Old Shawneetown is straightforward: over 400 sites dot the area, each with water at your doorstep and an average price of $35 a night. Some spots run as low as $17 if you’re watching your budget. You’ll find campgrounds along the banks where you can swim, hike, or saddle up for horseback riding. Look for showers, toilets, and pet-friendly policies across most sites. Local favorites include Sonny Hills (49 reviews), Ande's Place 148 Green Rd, Kuttawa (44 reviews), and The Creekside JeWeL (11 reviews). Expect easy access to the river, reliable facilities, and enough room to spread out without bumping elbows with your neighbours.

99% (92) • 21 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Old Shawneetown

Sonny Hills

1. Sonny Hills

100%

(77)

19mi from Old Shawneetown · 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)

38mi from Old Shawneetown · 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

Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

3. Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

100%

(10)

26mi from Old Shawneetown · 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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$41

/ 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

Saline County State Fish & Wildlife Area

5. Saline County State Fish & Wildlife Area

4 sites · Equality, Illinois

The old site of springs and wells that once furnished brine, Saline County is bountiful in natural beauty. Though the springs and wells are no longer visible, the land still boasts more than a thousand acres of expansive scenery and a pristine lake that is just too tempting for swimmers and boaters alike to resist. Bring your tent or your trailer, with plenty of space to sprawl out and call your own. Want to sharpen your skills as an angler? Throw the line in for those bluegill, bass, or crappie that call the lake home. For hiking fanatics, there are plenty of trails to hit up, including Lake, Cave Hill, River, and Wildlife Nature Trail—offering plenty of scenic exploration. There is even a separate grounds and secluded trails for those of you who prefer to venture out on horseback. Whatever’s your fancy, this park is filled to the brim with goodness.

Pets

Campfires

Sewer hookup

Little Lusk Campground And Lodging

6. Little Lusk Campground And Lodging

100%

(1)

25mi from Old Shawneetown · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

50 well shaded campsites with three ponds, a playground for the kids and horse trails in the middle of Shawnee National Forest. Stalls available. Come hike or camp with us and visit nearby attractions like Jackson Falls, Garden of the Gods, Bell Smith springs and much more. 6 bedroom lodge available to rent just a room or the whole thing. Each bedroom has a private bathroom, tv, microwave and mini fridge. Full kitchen and living space available with a huge stone fireplace right in the middle. (Office is located in the lodge) We also provide primitive camping.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$15

/ night

Cave-In-Rock State Park

7. Cave-In-Rock State Park

59 sites · Cave In Rock, Illinois

Explore a unique cave formation that looks like a giant poked a hole in a rock.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Dixon Springs State Park

8. Dixon Springs State Park

100%

(1)

23 sites · Simpson, Illinois

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

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

John James Audubon State Park

9. John James Audubon State Park

87 sites · Henderson, Kentucky

Discover John James Audubon State Park's natural beauty and wildlife.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Beall Woods State Park

10. Beall Woods State Park

16 sites · Keensburg, Illinois

Unbelievably tall trees, winding trails, and an abundance of history is what you’ll find at Beall Woods. The last untouched timber east of the Mississippi is found here, so prepare to gawk at the over 100 ft trees. When you are finally able to pull yourself away from trees, enjoy a picnic, fish for a bit, or hike the trails. The visitor’s center is the perfect starting point: make sure to check out the educational programs they offer to give your brain an exercise!

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Fort Massac State Park

11. Fort Massac State Park

100%

(1)

52 sites · Metropolis, Illinois

Discover the origins of American life in Illinois' first state park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

River camping in Old Shawneetown is straightforward: over 400 sites dot the area, each with water at your doorstep and an average price of $35 a night. Some spots run as low as $17 if you’re watching your budget. You’ll find campgrounds along the banks where you can swim, hike, or saddle up for horseback riding. Look for showers, toilets, and pet-friendly policies across most sites. Local favorites include Sonny Hills (49 reviews), Ande's Place 148 Green Rd, Kuttawa (44 reviews), and The Creekside JeWeL (11 reviews). Expect easy access to the river, reliable facilities, and enough room to spread out without bumping elbows with your neighbours.

99% (92) • 21 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Old Shawneetown

Sonny Hills

1. Sonny Hills

100%

(77)

19mi from Old Shawneetown · 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)

38mi from Old Shawneetown · 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

Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

3. Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

100%

(10)

26mi from Old Shawneetown · 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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$41

/ 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

Saline County State Fish & Wildlife Area

5. Saline County State Fish & Wildlife Area

4 sites · Equality, Illinois

The old site of springs and wells that once furnished brine, Saline County is bountiful in natural beauty. Though the springs and wells are no longer visible, the land still boasts more than a thousand acres of expansive scenery and a pristine lake that is just too tempting for swimmers and boaters alike to resist. Bring your tent or your trailer, with plenty of space to sprawl out and call your own. Want to sharpen your skills as an angler? Throw the line in for those bluegill, bass, or crappie that call the lake home. For hiking fanatics, there are plenty of trails to hit up, including Lake, Cave Hill, River, and Wildlife Nature Trail—offering plenty of scenic exploration. There is even a separate grounds and secluded trails for those of you who prefer to venture out on horseback. Whatever’s your fancy, this park is filled to the brim with goodness.

Pets

Campfires

Sewer hookup

Little Lusk Campground And Lodging

6. Little Lusk Campground And Lodging

100%

(1)

25mi from Old Shawneetown · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

50 well shaded campsites with three ponds, a playground for the kids and horse trails in the middle of Shawnee National Forest. Stalls available. Come hike or camp with us and visit nearby attractions like Jackson Falls, Garden of the Gods, Bell Smith springs and much more. 6 bedroom lodge available to rent just a room or the whole thing. Each bedroom has a private bathroom, tv, microwave and mini fridge. Full kitchen and living space available with a huge stone fireplace right in the middle. (Office is located in the lodge) We also provide primitive camping.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$15

/ night

Cave-In-Rock State Park

7. Cave-In-Rock State Park

59 sites · Cave In Rock, Illinois

Explore a unique cave formation that looks like a giant poked a hole in a rock.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Dixon Springs State Park

8. Dixon Springs State Park

100%

(1)

23 sites · Simpson, Illinois

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

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

John James Audubon State Park

9. John James Audubon State Park

87 sites · Henderson, Kentucky

Discover John James Audubon State Park's natural beauty and wildlife.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Beall Woods State Park

10. Beall Woods State Park

16 sites · Keensburg, Illinois

Unbelievably tall trees, winding trails, and an abundance of history is what you’ll find at Beall Woods. The last untouched timber east of the Mississippi is found here, so prepare to gawk at the over 100 ft trees. When you are finally able to pull yourself away from trees, enjoy a picnic, fish for a bit, or hike the trails. The visitor’s center is the perfect starting point: make sure to check out the educational programs they offer to give your brain an exercise!

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Fort Massac State Park

11. Fort Massac State Park

100%

(1)

52 sites · Metropolis, Illinois

Discover the origins of American life in Illinois' first state park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

W

William

November 2025

28 ft toy hauler

With pets

2 nights at Little Lusk Campground And Lodging

The peace and quiet and having the horses around was so cool and perfectly timed for the rest that I needed. The lodge is awesome and brings back scouting memories.

M

Michael

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

This was my second stay and for good reason. Jennifer is accommodating, friendly and the space is just great!

Hayley

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

Beautiful, private campsite that is right next to the national forest. We had a wonderful night here!

Beth

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

This is a lovely camp site near a small pond and a 5 minute walk to a new and very clean out house. Our camp hosts were very hospital, friendly and accommodating. They brought us lots of fire wood as it was pretty cold when we stayed there. We spent many hours around the large fire ring just talking and enjoying the quiet. We did not have clear skies so we weren't able to take advantage of the star gazing, but the area is free from light pollution and the nearby field would give you lots of space to star gaze. I highly recommend this site.

Megan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

We had an amazing time camping here! The host not only provided firewood, but also went above and beyond by building a fire for us while we were setting up out tent at dusk. So kind and welcoming! The property was beautiful, peaceful, and very well maintained. It felt like the safest place I've ever camped!! Would highly recommend this site!!

T

Tim

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

Amazing location and hospitality! Great hosts and feels like you have the National Forest and all its wonder to yourselves.

L

Lisa

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

Jennifer and John were amazing hosts! They were available whenever there were questions and the site was wonderful. Having more than enough room for a large group was a benefit and access to the pond and any firewood that was needed was a bonus. The porta potty was one of the cleanest I've seen and was close to the site. The site is about a 15 minute drive to the Garden of the Gods recreation area which is great as you are close by but not on top of a crowd of people. We camped with adults, a child, and a dog and everyone had a great time. I would highly recommend booking a trip to Sonny Hill and would love to come stay with Jennifer and John again in the future.

C

Chrysti

September 2025

Tent

4 nights at Sonny Hills

We have camped all over the country and this was hands down our favorite. The hosts are so kind and make sure you are comfortable and cared for. The property is stunning and perfect location to town or hiking trails. We are already missing the quiet and the peaceful view of the pond and trees. We highly recommend staying here and make sure to allow yourself time to enjoy the pond and property. They give you wood for fires and it burns better than what you get at normal parks. There is a kayak, paddleboard, row boat, fishing poles. This place truly has it all. 100% recommend them and hope to visit again soon.

J

Jennifer

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

Jennifer and John were great hosts! They would stop by to chat while still giving us privacy. John always made sure we had enough firewood and even brought the firewood to our site each day. It was very peaceful and relaxing camping by the pond. I would definitely camp here again. I would also highly recommend Sonny Hills for any solo female camper.

This large campsite has a small trail leading through the trees to a private pond. Walk a little further and you’re on the National Shawnee Forest Trail.

T

Ted

July 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

Nice secluded spot on a beautiful property. Felt like we had our own getaway. Great people, would love to come back

F

Fionn

July 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Sonny Hills

It was a great stay with Jennifer and John, we loved the area and were taken care of very well.

D

Devi

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Sonny Hills

I loved my night here! I felt totally safe (solo female traveler) and my small dog found heaven. It is beautiful and peaceful. The hosts could not be better. It was magic and so close to great hiking. Everybody should be lucky enough to stay here. I tent camped, but there was also a cabin option that looked fantastic.

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!

M

Makailey

April 2025

Tent

3 nights at Sonny Hills

Lovely spot! Super friendly hosts and we have enjoyed exploring the woods each time.