Camping in Trail of Tears State Forest, IL

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Trail of Tears State Forest adventure.

Hike, hunt, and horseback ride at this conservation area in southwestern Illinois.

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Stories from the community

Lauren

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

Wonderful weekend at the cabin! Had all the amenities two introverts could want- dvds, an awesome music collection, fireplace, the forest!, and so much more. Thank you! We hope to be back.

Michael

2 weeks ago

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!

Katrina

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

Spent the weekend tent camping. It was perfect! The owners were great. The land is beautiful and very dog friendly. The porta potty was very clean. This will be one of my favorites. So peaceful.

Gathering around the fire at Hickory Ridge Winery.

Molly

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

John and Carla were amazing hosts. They lead us to our site on their 4-wheeler, and even gave us a wine opener to borrow after we forgot to bring one. The campsite had everything we needed and was super clean, level, and open yet wooded. They came by to check on us after the first night. We were able to order firewood and wine from them ahead of time so it was at the site when we got there. This was amazing because we are usually trying to find space in the truck for firewood. They also provide ice water in a 5 gallon jug which saved us some packing space. We came with two dogs so we asked for one of their more private sites and they delivered. Didn’t see any other campers the entire weekend. Location is awesome for a variety of activities. I would love to return with my coworkers and this would be a perfect spot for our yearly camping trip. We also noticed lots of materials staged around the property so it seems like they are planning some improvements to their already amazing place. This wasn’t a problem for us but I wanted to mention as I know it can be a deal breaker for some. There was not a bathroom with running water, just a private privy in one of those little portable tents. It was cleaned and stocked and very much appreciated.

Samuel

2 weeks ago

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

The area was very accessible and was set up in a really nice convenient way. Jon met us at the driveway, greeted us with a warm smile and helped us get our water situated. After that he assisted me getting the trailer leveled and ready to go and made sure we had firewood. On Saturday, he came and checked on us and he's an incredible host and this was one of the best trips we had. Being within walking distance of a winery and a very short drive to another one is amazing and it was so quiet. And for the record I've never seen anybody have a better portable toilet outside than at Jon's property (Plus the bocce ball court was amazing and we had a great time playing with some people we met there as well this weekend). Suffice to say, we will definitely come back and visit Jon again and for anybody who may want a really great camping experience there is none better than what Jon provides.

Mimi

2 weeks ago

12 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

wine Trail wilderness was perfectly situated on Hickory Ridge Road close to two wineries! It was my first time to the wine trail in Shawnee national Forest and certainly there’s a lot to offer! Looking forward to going back!! Wine Trail wilderness was perfectly situated on Hickory Ridge Road close to two wineries! It was my first time to the wine trail in Shawnee national Forest and certainly there’s a lot to offer! Looking forward to going back JON was extremely accommodating and his land was ideal For hip camp travelers! Thank you WTW !

Megan

2 weeks ago

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!!

Kari

2 weeks ago

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

I enjoyed the evening on Jon's land. He was very helpful amd the site was beautiful! He had a big jug of ice water ready at the site too! There was a ready fire pit, but I chose not to have a fire since I was exhausted and wanted to sleep and get an early start the next day.

Lorie

2 weeks ago

1 night at The Art Farm

Tho cozy cabin was cozy! The place is lovely and peaceful. I enjoyed the fire pit and the millions of stars! I will be back when I can spend a few days. Laura the host was so friendly and made sure I had everything I needed.

patrick

2 weeks ago

4 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

We had a great time camping here. Jon was a great host. Checked on us every day. The campground was private. the other guests were very friendly. The trails nearby were very scenic. Would recommend it to any of my friends. We will camp here again I hope.

Zach

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Ridge Camping Private

Very nice hosts and a great location for a few parks in the area.

Tim

3 weeks ago

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.

Caleb

3 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

5 stars! This place is fantastic and the hosts were kind and help us with any needs we had.

Grainzebo II and Bocce Court with 30 Amp electric Hook-Up. Close to Outhouse.

Kate & Austin

3 weeks ago

19 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

Excellent communication from the hosts! Very nice and accommodating people!

Michael

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at The Art Farm

Loved staying here! I spent a total of four days in the woods and it was the perfect spot to stay in the evening. I especially loved that the tent area was shaded while the camping pit was just a few feet away under the open sky. I didn’t have a hammock with me, but wished that I did because there were so many great spots to hang it. Having the shower was a blessing as well. It was great to be able to start the morning with a hot rinse.

Spence

3 weeks ago

33 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Wine Trail Wilderness

what you see online is what you get… Absolutely fantastic! John was awesome, the property is awesome. Secluded in a great back to nature. . I will be back with friends.

Paul

3 weeks ago

21 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Wine Trail Wilderness

Great spot, great location, wonderful host. What more can I say. We came for Snake Road, Little Grand Canyon, Wine Trail and Vulture Fest. Central location for all of the above!

Jenny

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Wine Trail Wilderness

Wonderful camping area with extras! The sites are well maintained with cold water waiting, firewood ready upon request, picnic tables and a table and chairs. It’s like an all inclusive resort of primitive camping! My family and I really enjoyed playing bocce ball and were very thankful for the owner of the property to come take the time to teach us how to play. It is also in a great location for visiting hiking trails and climbing areas. Thanks for having us!

Kyle

3 weeks ago

13 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sonny Hills

The property is absolutely beautiful. We had some luck fishing and enjoyed the pond. The hosts are very attentive if you should need anything. The delivery of firewood was much appreciated! You are within 20 minutes of just about anything you want. There is some road noise, but not terrible.

Tracey

3 weeks ago

Tent

4 nights at Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

This was a lovely spot. It sits right on the edge of woods. The site was private and had a nice fire pit as well. The property was beautiful and the hosts were very helpful and accommodating. They provided firewood for the fire pit and sent helpful information about the area prior to check-in. We will definitely stay here again.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Trail of Tears State Forest

Trail of Tears Campground

14 sites · RVs, Tents In Trail of Tears State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Trail of Tears State Forest

Wine Trail Wilderness

100%

(659)

16 sites · RVs, Tents · Pomona, IL

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.

Sonny Hills

100%

(75)

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Eddyville, IL

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.

Grand Chain Vineyards

89%

(14)

26 sites · RVs, Tents · New Grand Chain, IL

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.

Lake Life

2 sites · RVs, Tents · Fredericktown, MO

Lakefront property with gravel road entrance. Trail down to dock at waterline. Fishing from dock or anywhere at lake. Community beach. 120v Electricity on site with extension chords. 3 Community shower houses around lake are full bathroom. (Shutdown in freezing temperature months)

The Art Farm

98%

(196)

31 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · 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. :)

Sycamore Springs Campground

95%

(95)

21 sites · RVs, Tents · Fredericktown, MO

The campsite sits alongside the Castor River, offering electric hookups at 5 sites as well as 5 primitive tent sites. Enjoy outdoor adventures just minutes away, at the Amidon Memorial Conservation Area, a 1,630-acre area located on the upper reaches of the Castor River, located south of Route J, eight miles east of Fredericktown.

Tall Tree Lake

98%

(48)

62 sites · RVs, Tents · 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.

Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

100%

(8)

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Stonefort, 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. 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.

Ridge Camping Private

100%

(8)

34 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · 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!!!!!!!!!!!

Little Lusk Campground And Lodging

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Stonefort, IL

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.

Monarch Hill Vineyard

99%

(91)

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Ste. Genevieve, MO

Welcome to Monarch Hill! Tucked away in the hills of Ste. Genevieve County, we enjoy watching the sun rise and set over our secluded pastures and vineyards. Our hilltop sites offer an open area with fire rings and picnic tables, great for groups or social butterflies. These offer well water at the nearby barn for drinking and showering. The Seclusion sites are private escapes for those who want to immerse themselves in the sounds of nature. Take in the chirps of frogs, birds and crickets at these isolated sites. We offer a complimentary wood basket with every booking, and have additional fire-building supplies available. Be sure to check out our experiences to make the most of your stay, and don't forget to reserve a s'more kit! *** April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse *** We are excited to be located in the best viewing path for this year's total eclipse! We will be preparing additional sites as needed for this weekend, so if we are fully booked check back soon or message us to reserve a spot. More information to come as we approach the date.

Lake Perry Campground

77%

(13)

30 sites · RVs, Tents · Perryville, MO

Lake Perry Campground was established in July, 2024. We are located just outside the main gates of Lake Perry. Lake Perry is a private, gated, lake community that is only accessible by lot owners and their guests. Lake Perry Campground offers 17 full hookup sites consisting of public water, 70 amp electric, and public sewer. 9 sites are pull through lots that are 25' wide x 35' long, and 8 back-in lots ranging from 25-60' wide and 30-100' long. Two buddy lots (camper & tent) are available as well. We also have 1 tent lot with 20 amp electric and water. Completed in August 2025, is a 30' x 50' pavilion with restrooms (2 toilets) and (1) floor to ceiling tile shower in each restroom. A tankless hot water heater was installed for endless hot water. A seasonal bar & grill operates on the weekends and sometimes more serving canned beer, mixed drinks, premium wines, and adult slushy drinks such as the nearly famous Perrywacker. There is Starlink wifi and an ice vending machine on-site 24/7. Also available late winter/early spring 2026 is a 400 square foot studio cabin featuring a 12x16 deck, bedroom, full kitchen, full bath, and a kitchenette/bar. (Sleeps 4) We are 5 miles from Mark Twain national Forest, as well as multiple conservation areas with creek access. Several wineries are nearby through scenic backroads. (Charleville, Twin Oaks, Sand Creek). Bring your SXS's for days of backroad riding that spans 4 counties (Perry, Ste Genevieve, Madison, and Bollinger). Check out the featured post on our Facebook page for an extensive list of nearby attractions.

Camping in Trail of Tears State Forest, IL guide

Overview

About

Walk or trot along 22 miles of trails in this 5,000-acre wood. This state forest is situated in western Union County 5 miles northwest of Jonesboro. Get into the woods at any time of year thanks to well-marked trails and plenty of trees.

Explore a nature preserve and a state-run tree nursery. Trek over rugged hillsides at the Ozark Hills Nature Preserve. This area contains some of the most varied terrains in Illinois.

Just west of this forest lies the Mississippi River as it churns towards the Ohio River near Cairo. The river helps birds as they migrate through the area. Binoculars come in handy for spotting birds, foxes, coyotes, and chipmunks. Keep your eyes peeled for a multitude of adorable flying squirrels.

Visit this forest in fall time for resplendent colors. Peak times are often in early to mid-October. Spring creates blooms of wildflowers in the prairie portions of the park.

Reserve one of 19 campsites here. Fourteen are for RVs, while five have rustic shelters.

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