The best camping near Shawnee National Forest
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Shawnee National Forest adventure.
94% (27 reviews)
94% (27 reviews)
Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.
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Community favorites near Shawnee National Forest
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Stay at a public campground in Shawnee National Forest
Top-rated campgrounds near Shawnee National Forest
100%
(14)
Sonny Hills
3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents70 acres · Eddyville, IL
70 secluded acres adjoining the Shawnee National Forest area with hiking trails, woods and water activities. Close to Garden of the Gods (10 min), RimRock, (20 min), Ponds Hollow (25 min), Belle Smith Springs, Lusk Creek and other trails. We are in the middle of the Shawnee with trees, lake, hiking trails and 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, Completely modernized, with Heating/ac, full kitchen with dishwasher, microwave and refrigerator, coffee pot, grill, laundry, NO INTERNET. Kitchen is stocked with coffee, creamer, sugar, cooking oil, aluminum foil, and condiments. Large great room, with native sandstone fireplace and nice views of private lake and hills. Large back porch, Secluded, private, Fire pit. Free firewood. $85.00 per night, $60.00 cleaning fee
Primitive tent camping sites available. RV pads for self-contained campers . One Electric space available with notice. Water available from spigot and hose. No sewer. Porta-Potty on premises. No showers.
Shade or sunny areas.
Pets and service dogs welcome with reservations. 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, crappie, and bass. Kayaks, paddleboards canoe and boat. 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.
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$15
/ night
90%
(25)
Watson's Rivercamp Retreat
6 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Evansville, IN
Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, this primitive camp is ideal for nearby fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming! Our unique location offers a picturesque view of downtown Evansville and Dutch’s Island. Set in a no-wake zone, the shallow beachy island also serves as a barrier from the river channel creating calm lake-like waters. We are located only 0.2mi from Dogtown boat ramp and 300ft from Nu Plaza marina. Biking, walking/hiking trails, local park, and pool nearby.
On our property, we allow our campers the flexibility to pick their own perfect spot to camp. There are large mature trees that offer plenty of shade and flat ground for an easy setup. Each site has a firepit, picnic table, and nearby trash can. A firewood bundle is included and complimentary smores packages upon request. Our property features 2 communal areas each with a fire pit, charcoal grill, tables, chairs, and lights. There is access to electric power strips and water hoses in each communal area.
Kayaks are available to registered campers only first come, first serve. Price is $25 or a single kayak, $50 for a tandem. Includes lifejackets.
We look forward to having you!
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$25
/ night
99%
(146)
The Art Farm Women's Retreat
54 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents34 acres · Paducah, KY
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. :)
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$35
/ night
100%
(13)
The Creekside JeWeL
10 sites · Tents73 acres · Eddyville, KY
Learn more about this land:
73 acres of secluded rolling hills located on Lake Barkley/Eddy Creek.
Lots of woods, meadows, and creekside camping available.
Fishing, wildlife, shooting (please note firearm rules) hunting, ATV riding, kayaking, canoeing, boating, or nothing at all ! All groups are welcome at this sportsmans recreational au natural Hipcamp!
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$30
/ night
100%
(4)
Ridge Camping Private
34 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Mill Creek, IL
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!!!!!!!!!!!
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$10
/ night
100%
(26)
Barbara W.’s Land
26 sites · Tents25 acres · Tunnel Hill, IL
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$50
/ night
83%
(51)
Ande's Place 148 Green Rd, Kuttawa
2 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Kuttawa, KY
Learn more about this land:Rolling Hills and wide-open spaces. Primitive to (6) full-service (water, sewer, and 120, 30, or 50 amp electric) camping, located on 60 acres of rolling hills and timber just a few minutes walk to Lake Barkley in beautiful Kentucky. Wooded areas with plenty of room to enjoy yourselves without being on top of your neighbors. Our address is 148 Green Rd. Kuttawa, KY 42055. NOTE: Our primitive tent sites are $20 per night and our Full hook-up sites are $29. Please call us to verify availability before booking!
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$29
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97%
(39)
15 Acre Wood on Lake
3 sites · Tents15 acres · Mt. Vernon, IN
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.
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$25
/ night
The Zen Den
1 site · Lodging8 acres · Elizabethtown, IL
Discover a hidden gem in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest at our unique microcabin, the Zen Den. Tucked away in seclusion, this peaceful retreat is a haven for nature lovers seeking a digital detox and a reconnection with the great outdoors. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The Zen Den offers a sanctuary away from distractions, allowing you to truly unwind and find peace. From scenic hikes to peaceful strolls, the SNF provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures!The Zen Den is located on a rural gravel road. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended during snowy winter months. In rare cases of torrential rain, bridges on both sides of the rental may temporarily flood and access to and from will be temporarily unavailable until water receeds. Check weather and/or contact us prior to arrival.
Our micro A-frame cabin sits on the back corner of 8 acres that is shared with our other Airbnb. Property is TOTALLY surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest. There are no neighbors within miles. You CANNOT see our other rental from the site. However, you can see the other rental from the parking spot.
Once parked, you will cross a walkway bridge where you will walk approximately 300 yards through the woods along a partial rock path to the site. Please take into consideration that the trail may be muddy, you may encounter wildlife, bugs, and/or poison ivy.
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$80
/ night
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(30)
Tall Tree Lake
62 sites · RVs, Tents220 acres · Buncombe, IL
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.
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$32
/ night
99%
(34)
Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm
4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Eldorado, IL
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.
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$30
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(1)
Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting
1 site · RV, Tent65 acres · Eddyville, IL
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.
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$75
/ night
The best camping near Shawnee National Forest 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.
Top cities near Shawnee National Forest
- Shawnee National Forest
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