- Trail of Tears State Forest
The best RV parks in Trail of Tears State Forest, IL
Hike, hunt, and horseback ride at this conservation area in southwestern Illinois.
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Trail of Tears State Forest
Wine Trail Wilderness
Wine Trail Wilderness
100%
(669)
8.7mi from Trail of Tears State 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.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from
$24
/ night
Big Muddy Brewing
Big Muddy Brewing
95%
(44)
19mi from Trail of Tears State 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.
Electrical hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
from
$20
/ night
Tall Tree Lake
Tall Tree Lake
98%
(48)
22mi from Trail of Tears State Forest · 62 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.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from
$20
/ night
Grand Chain Vineyards
Grand Chain Vineyards
91%
(16)
28mi from Trail of Tears State Forest · 26 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
Full hookups
from
$40
/ night
Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting
Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting
100%
(10)
41mi from Trail of Tears State 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.
Pets
from
$41
/ night
Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch
Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch
100%
(12)
41mi from Trail of Tears State Forest · 9 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
from
$24
/ night
Sycamore Springs Campground
Sycamore Springs Campground
95%
(99)
45mi from Trail of Tears State Forest · 21 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from
$25
/ night
The Art Farm
The Art Farm
98%
(202)
46mi from Trail of Tears State Forest · 31 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. :)
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$24
/ night
Sonny Hills
Sonny Hills
100%
(77)
49mi from Trail of Tears State Forest · 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.
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). 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.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from
$25
/ night
Monarch Hill Vineyard
Monarch Hill Vineyard
99%
(93)
49mi from Trail of Tears State Forest · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
from
$50
/ night
Grams Cabin and Pops Campground
Grams Cabin and Pops Campground
100%
(1)
4mi from Trail of Tears State Forest · 7 sites
Nestled within the serene embrace of the Shawnee Nat'l Forest, this spacious cabin offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts alike! Located along the picturesque Shawnee Wine Trail with easy access to a variety of local wineries, eateries and a bourbon bar. Explore nearby hiking trails or savor a glass of local wine by the campfire. Enjoy 25 acres of secluded Bald Knob Wilderness but still just minutes from all that Southern Illinois has to offer. On the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. Hiking and horseback riding trails that come up to the property. Plenty of space to explore and relax. The only neighbors are the critters of the Shawnee National Forest and no light pollution makes for amazing views of the night sky.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$45
/ night
Twin Creek Cabins
Twin Creek Cabins
15mi from Trail of Tears State 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
from
$6
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
r
rhea
1 week ago
16 ft car
With pets
my pup and i were stopping through on a road trip and it was a lovely place to rest! jon was wonderful and responded right away, offering to stay up late to welcome us. and the trees and woods all around were gorgeous. definitely recommend !
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Jackie
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We've stayed here several times. Continues getting better. Although the star of the show this time was star-gazing during 65 degree weather the day after Christmas! Thx again Jon for wonderful place to stay.
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A
Adam
3 weeks ago
13 ft travel trailer
With pets
Jon and Carla were wonderful hosts. Jon had everything we could want and more! We had a lovely stay. Would definitely book again.
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W
William
November 2025
28 ft travel trailer
With pets
Quaint place in an industrial neighborhood. The industrial noise goes away at night and it is an extremely pleasant and quiet place to camp. The brewery is awesome!
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M
Michael
November 2025
18 ft campervan
Darrell and Jeanna were excellent hosts; they were friendly and helpful while also being mindful of the importance of the solitude needed to thoroughly enjoy their beautiful property. We will definitely go back for another visit (or more).
This visit was towards the end of November, so the shower and privy were welcome comforts in the brisk weather, though also invigorating. Fireside relaxation was the primary activity as we watched an impressive variety of birds by the pond. With the lack of light pollution, the stargazing opportunities were a treat. We hope to be back for the wine harvest next year!
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S
Sheldon
November 2025
19 ft campervan
Laura’s camp space was great. Perfectly flat for our van and very quiet. We had a lovely evening.
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R
Robert
November 2025
Tent
With kids
Me & my son spent 2 days tent camping here. It sits right along the creek & very well kept. Harley is a good guy & friendly host.
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J
James
November 2025
20 ft travel trailer
Great sites and great hosts! John was super helpful and accommodating, taught us how to play bocce ball on the court there, and even helped us with a maintenance issue on my camper. The grainzebo was awesome!!! Can't wait to go back.
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Wilson
November 2025
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
Our experience at Wine Trail Wilderness was great despite plunging temperatures this past weekend. The roomy site allowed for our 2 young dogs to zoom around the field and the pavilion and outhouse were experiences of themselves. Jon was a great host and fun to talk to when he was walking his dog Norton. The location between 2 of our favorite wineries was a bonus. The scenery with the fall colors was beautiful to see. We can’t wait to come back. Becky and Wilson
See moreF
Frank
November 2025
Tent
It was fantastic camping on Jon’s land he was the perfect host, very attentive and was willing to work with our schedule. It made for a great weekend of climbing at holy boulders… it’s like 15min from the boulders!
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Kyle
November 2025
19 ft pop-up camper
With pets
This is the third time I've stayed at WTW. It was the first time staying in the far away field and we loved it. Jon checked in and would deliver firewood (if needed). I'm sure we will be back!
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J
Jeff
November 2025
23 ft travel trailer
Great place to stay. Nice view. Staff were very friendly.
See moreB
Bryson
November 2025
Tent
With pets
Beautiful campground with an awesome host! Will definitely stay again next time we are out this way!
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G
Garrett
November 2025
15 ft pop-up camper
it is probably a great site to camp on.
i never got the chance, i called left message that i had broken down along the way and needed to cancel. i think i tried to email them as well, but my cell service was intermittent from where i was at. i requested a refund as i couldn’t make the stay. left my info, and number/site.
never heard back from them. so i ended up wasting $175 (three nights-weekend). i still haven’t heard much from them.
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E
Elizabeth
November 2025
Tent
I loved camping on Laura's land! Porta-potty, shower, and hot tub are all near the site. It looks quiet, and the view across the field was lovely!
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S
Samantha
October 2025
10 ft travel trailer
With pets
This was a perfect primitive camp for us! The area had plenty of privacy with a beautiful scenery. Early mornings, next to the woods gave a good spot to drink some coffee and watch the wildlife. Easily accessible, and not far from town if you needed to make a quick trip.
Communication with Laura was friendly, quick and easy.
Definitely saving this spot for our next trip in the area:)
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M
Michael
October 2025
Tent
This was my second stay and for good reason. Jennifer is accommodating, friendly and the space is just great!
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Hayley
October 2025
16 ft car
Beautiful, private campsite that is right next to the national forest. We had a wonderful night here!
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Beth
October 2025
Tent
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.
See moreM
Molly
October 2025
Tent
With pets
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.
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