The best camping in Shawnee National Forest, IL
95% (30)
95% (30)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Shawnee National Forest adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Shawnee National Forest
Garden of the Gods Campground
1. Garden of the Gods Campground
97%
(16)
This Garden of the Gods is right here in Illinois—no need to travel to Colorado!—but you'll be equally-awed by the wild rock formations that fill this recreation area and campground
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Glendale Campground
2. Lake Glendale Campground
100%
(5)
Lake Glendale is smack-dab in the middle of the Shawnee National Forest, which means all of its plentiful amenities are equally-accessible
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Jackson Falls Campground
3. Jackson Falls Campground
100%
(3)
Jackson Falls is one of the premier technical climbing destinations in Illinois, but even if you don't like hanging off the side of giant rocks, you'll definitely appreciate looking at them from below and camping among them
Bell Smith Springs Campground
4. Bell Smith Springs Campground
100%
(1)
Bell Smith Springs 'rocks'
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Johnson Creek Campground
5. Johnson Creek Campground
100%
(1)
Camp on the beach where Johnson Creek meets Kincaid Lake
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Camp Cadiz Campground
6. Camp Cadiz Campground
The parallelism here is crazy—Camp Cadiz Campground built by the Civilian Conservation Corps
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pounds Hollow Campground
7. Pounds Hollow Campground
83%
(3)
Pounds Hollow Lake was completed in the 1940's as part of the Civilian Conservation Corps' sweeping land improvement projects
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pine Hills Campground
8. Pine Hills Campground
We ain't bluffin'—the 150-foot tall limestone bluffs in Pine Hills Recreation Area were written about by Lewis and Clark on their way westward
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Top-rated campsites near Shawnee National Forest
Tall Tree Lake
1. Tall Tree Lake
98%
(48)
7.7mi from Shawnee National Forest · 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
Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting
2. Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting
100%
(14)
12mi from Shawnee National Forest · 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
3. Sonny Hills
100%
(86)
20mi from Shawnee National Forest · 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
Grand Chain Vineyards
4. Grand Chain Vineyards
92%
(19)
21mi from Shawnee National Forest · 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
Robyn M.’s Land
5. Robyn M.’s Land
90%
(10)
29mi from Shawnee National Forest · 80 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ridge Camping Private
6. Ridge Camping Private
95%
(11)
29mi from Shawnee National Forest · 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
Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm
7. Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm
99%
(35)
30mi from Shawnee National Forest · 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
Wine Trail Wilderness
8. Wine Trail Wilderness
100%
(698)
32mi from Shawnee National Forest · 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
The Art Farm
9. The Art Farm
97%
(214)
34mi from Shawnee National Forest · 23 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
Big Muddy Brewing
10. Big Muddy Brewing
96%
(47)
35mi from Shawnee National Forest · 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
Pond Ridge Adventure
11. Pond Ridge Adventure
98%
(33)
36mi from Shawnee National Forest · 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
The Essence of The Lake of Egypt
12. The Essence of The Lake of Egypt
8.8mi from Shawnee National Forest · 1 site
Bring your boat and your 4x4 to experience the best of the Lake of Egypt atmosphere! We have a very special campsite for you and your family or friends. All the hookups ,electric and septic too. There is a fire pit, a smoker for your BBQ desires, not to mention the Shawnee Hills Wine trail, hiking, and biking too. Expect lots of fun at your own private campsite(s).
Pets
Full hookups
Rock Hole Meadow
13. Rock Hole Meadow
100%
(1)
13mi from Shawnee National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled on an 8-acre rural property, we are in the process of transforming into a permanent primitive campground. New to Hipcamp and hosting, Committed to environmental stewardship, we prioritize eco-conscious practices such as reusing, recycling, and promoting the growth of native plant species. Each visit to our campground contributes to our mission of preserving this land for future generations.
Our property boasts a spacious meadow, ideal for star gazing, along with wooded campsites or meadow camping.
Please note that the meadow may become muddy during spring and winter season, so exercise caution when selecting your camping area. Additionally, a communal fire pit is available for those camping. Facilities include a porta-potty with no running water, with plans for future construction of bathrooms and showers.
Conveniently located just 5 minutes from Carrier Mills, Illinois, you can easily stock up on any necessities during your stay.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Little Lusk Campground And Lodging
14. Little Lusk Campground And Lodging
100%
(1)
13mi from Shawnee National Forest · 1 site
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
Showers
Little Texas Farm and Lodge
15. Little Texas Farm and Lodge
100%
(4)
13mi from Shawnee National Forest · 1 site
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Meadow Ridge Farm
16. Meadow Ridge Farm
100%
(1)
16mi from Shawnee National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
2 sites with 50amp power and shared water. The sites sit on a gravel pad overlooking an open field, pond, pastures, and grain bins. Peaceful and secluded! Great stargazing! Fully stocked pond onsite. Close to Cache River, Ferne Clyffe, and 12 miles to the wine trail.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Temple Hill Campground
17. Temple Hill Campground
100%
(4)
16mi from Shawnee National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
This is a 2 acre campsite with views of a creek. Shawnee Forest is conveniently located close by. This campsite is 7 miles from interstate 24. This is a Permaculture homestead.
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Water hookup
Cozy Cabin
18. Cozy Cabin
24mi from Shawnee National Forest · 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
Crystal Springs
19. Crystal Springs
90%
(5)
27mi from Shawnee National Forest · 1 site
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.
Pets
Twin Creek Cabins
20. Twin Creek Cabins
29mi from Shawnee National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Twin Creek Cabins — Charming Camp & Cabin Escape in Illinois 🌲
Discover a peaceful and scenic getaway at Twin Creek Cabins, a relaxed outdoor space perfect for tents, campers, and RVs near the heart of southern Illinois. Set beside open meadow and natural surroundings, this site offers a simple and nature‑focused experience where you can unwind around the fire, listen to birdsong, and enjoy the fresh country air.
The property welcomes a range of camping styles — from tent camping and self‑contained trailers to RVs — with hot water, campfires, and a porta‑potty on site for convenience. Communal fire pits and open space make it easy to connect with friends or family around a classic outdoor campfire. Pets are welcome, and there’s plenty of room to stretch out and relax.
Located just minutes from Carrier Mills, Pinckneyville, and Sparta, you’re within reach of local shops, restaurants, and outdoor stops. Whether you’re here for a short overnight or a longer stay exploring the Shawnee National Forest and nearby trails, Twin Creek Cabins offers a quiet basecamp with the comforts you need for a laid‑back countryside escape.
Highlights:
• Quiet rural setting ideal for unwinding
• Hot water available
• Campfires permitted
• Pets welcome
• Convenient to local towns and outdoor attractions
Come for the nature, stay for the peace — and make memories by the fire under the stars.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
A
Amanda
3 days ago
25 ft campervan
With pets
We stayed at WTW with our two dogs in our campervan. Jon and his wife were so so kind and accommodating. Made sure we had a secluded space and they were just a text away if we needed anything. The land is absolutely beautiful and so peaceful. We loved our time here and can’t wait to come back.
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Maureen
5 days ago
Tent
My husband and I loved our stay at Wine Trail Wilderness! Jon was so thoughtful during our stay (he replaced the makeshift stakes we made out of sticks with actual stakes when we were out exploring the trails nearby) and accommodating when our initial ETA changed a few times. The tent campsites were thoughtfully spaced out to provide plenty of privacy and it was a beautiful spot with lots of outdoor activities nearby. We did not have any cell reception at the campsite which we loved as it was a great opportunity to unplug and just appreciate our surroundings. I would recommend staying here to any of my friends/family that enjoy camping as this was a favorite stay of ours.
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C
Carli
5 days ago
With pets
Beautiful cabin and lake. Very relaxing and peaceful area. The hosts are very sweet and helpful with anything you need. This is a very special area that they have. Would love to come back.
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K
Kevin
6 days ago
Tent
Jon was an amazing host, fun to chat with, and provided water included with the site.
Site had a fire pit with grill and a bin for wood/trash. The firewood plus kindling for sale was a great value.
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E
Erin
6 days ago
20 ft rooftop tent
With pets
We loved staying on Jon’s land! It was so well maintained. Easy to get to. He was so attentive and willing to help with anything you need. I’d come stay again any time!
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A
Alex
6 days ago
21 ft travel trailer
With kids
Wonderful accommodations and great host! Jon was so friendly and helpful. The property was nice, clean, and well-kept. I love that the camp was environment-friendly. The bocce court was great and the kids loved playing on it. I would definitely recommend and would come back if our travels take us back to the area!
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P
Paul
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
Wine Trail Wilderness is a really beautiful location, but, frankly, so are a lot of Hipcamp sites. What makes WTW stand out head and shoulders above all the other Hipcamps I've stayed at is Jon's amazing attention to detail. He is obsessive about making sure that every camper has the experience HE would want to have if he were the camper... and he has thought of EVERYTHING. For instance, if you order firewood, it's waiting for you at your campsite in a rain-proof footlocker, with kindling, paper, and a butane firestick! And fresh water is waiting for you in a 10-gallon water cooler... with ice in it! These are just two of a dozen examples I could give of the little details Jon has thought of in order to make every camper's experience the best it can be. WTW will be a regular stop for us from here on out! Thank you, Jon.
See moreT
Travis
2 weeks ago
Tent
Loved camping at the gazebo Jon has on his land! Had an amazing time exploring the area and trails. Would definitely recommend and stay here again!
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Victoria
2 weeks ago
Tent
I ABSOLUTELY loved visiting the Art Farm.
This was my very first hip camp experience and it couldn't have gone better!
Laura was extremely communicative from the very start. As soon as I booked my campsite she helped walk me through the hipcamp app. Her presence and loving nature continued throughout my stay.
When I arrived she gave me a full tour of the land and even offered to let me upgrade to the cabin if I'd like.
Her passion and love for the lush green land was palatable which made me feel very welcome and safe 😊
I was very sore from a long hike and even longer drive the 2 days before and as soon as I stepped foot on the property I felt revitalized.
The place was very well maintained and tent site even included an electrical outlet to heat water and charge my phone.
I got the best sleep of my month long journey so far there on the moss covered floor of a site I named the fairy forest which was a patch of untouched pine cedar and oak trees surrounding a cute little picnic table perfect for an enchanted tea party.
Everything was divine and felt so perfectly aligned. I must say I NEVER have I ever experienced a portable bathroom that smelled so good.
Way to set the bar on high for future hip camp hosts there Laura! 🙌
I pray my land will someday be the soul sanctuary fpr others that yours was for me.
When May 13th-14th
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N
Nina
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We had a great time camping at Wine Trail Wilderness. We loved the spacious sites, shady, level sites, situated far apart from other campers. The composting toilet was very clean and well maintained. Jon provided delicious, ice cold well water, checked in frequently, and gave us good information on local sites and hiking trails. He could not have been nicer. We highly recommend Jon’s property.
See moreK
Katherine
2 weeks 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.
See mored
denise
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
This is our second year at Wine Trail Wilderness Hip Camp. We love it. The land is beautiful, quiet and so expertly maintained, we plan to go every year. It’s close to the Little Grand Canyon which we love to hike. Jon’s an excellent host and his attention to detail is remarkable.
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S
Sue
3 weeks 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
3 weeks 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
3 weeks 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.
3 weeks 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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Susan
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We loved tent camping at Jon’s! The area was beautiful and very well maintained. They were kind enough to have water and firewood available and even had an outhouse conveniently located to our site. There were many thoughtful touches, you could tell they took pride in providing a great experience.
Our dogs loved the opportunity to explore the big field, and we loved the opportunity to try some local wine from the winery next door.
We would definitely stay here again!
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M
Mom's
May 2026
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.
See moreC
Cailin
April 2026
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!!
See more
L
Lori
April 2026
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.
See moreShawnee National Forest camping guide
Overview
About
Rambling across more than a quarter-million acres and nine counties in southernmost Illinois, Shawnee National Forest has ancient woodlands, rocky bluffs, lakes, and caves, all hemmed in by the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. Choose from more than 403 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, discover the dramatic sandstone cliffs of the Garden of the Gods, go rock climbing at Jackson Falls, or enjoy fishing and canoeing along the lakes and creeks. Campers can choose from nine campgrounds, two of which provide electric hook-ups, as well as dispersed camping in several areas of the forest.
Notable campgrounds
- Best for hikers: Garden of the Gods Recreation Area has 12 non-electric campsites with easy access to the popular hiking trails.
- Best for RVs: Lake Glendale Beach has 59 lakeside sites, 34 with electric hook-ups, plus showers and flush toilets.
- Best for equestrian campers: Camp Cadiz Campground is a tranquil spot with basic facilities and eight non-electric sites.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- All campgrounds at Shawnee National Forest are available on a first-come, first-served basis—advance reservations are not possible.
- Smaller sites may fill up quickly over summer and holiday weekends, so plan an early Friday arrival if possible.
When to go
Outdoor adventurers benefit from mild weather year-round in the Shawnee National Forest. Spring and fall are the most colorful times to explore, when trails bloom with wildflowers or shed a rainbow of fall foliage. Many hiking trails are accessible right through winter, but snowfall is possible in the coldest months, so dress accordingly. Camping is also possible year-round, although some campgrounds close from December through March.
Know before you go
- Shawnee National Forest is located in southernmost Illinois. Travel times depend on which part of the forest you’re traveling to, but most destinations are within a 2- or 2.5-hour drive of St. Louis.
- There is no admission fee to visit Shawnee National Forest, but camping fees may apply.
- Facilities include restrooms and picnic areas, but not much else—fill up on gas and pick up groceries from the nearest town before you enter the forest. Cell phone and GPS service is patchy throughout the forest.
- Accessible day-use areas, campsites, and restrooms are available at Shawnee National Forest.
Reviews for Shawnee National Forest Campgrounds
95%
30 ratings · 7 reviews
Great hiking, perfect camping site for the price.
E
Ella P.
2 reviews
Recommends
· March 2026
Nice campground
J
Jim B.
2 reviews
Recommends
· March 2026
Tent ·
Lake Glendale Campground
nice and well kept, don't allow EV charging
J
Jim B.
2 reviews
Recommends
· November 2018
Very humid and alot of flies. Very beautiful and alot to see. If it is full there are many campgrounds in the area.
J
James G.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2018
The campsite overlooks the valley and there are incredible bluffs and geological features everywhere. It's so much fun to walk around and climb the rocks. I imagine fall would be great there when the leaves are changing on the trees below the bluffs.
Michael S.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2017
We stay every 4th, great campground. It's a traditional campground, mostly open campsites with all the amenities. Water at or close by, electric, maintained bathrooms w/showers. Fireworks over the lake are spectacular.
Melody G.
8 years on Hipcamp
December 2015
Wonderful campground with bathrooms and free showers for guests. A quick walk to the Lake with amazing sunsets! It was somewhere between $5-10 for a night which was well worth it for the large site with fire ring and picnic table. Would definitely recommend this campground!
Jenn F.
10 years on Hipcamp
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