The best camping in Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area, IL
You're almost guaranteed to land a fish at this well-stocked lake.
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area
Hamilton County Campground
1. Hamilton County Campground
It’s time to put up that “gone fishin” sign and disappear for a couple of days
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Top-rated campsites near Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area
Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm
1. Deaf Barefoot Melange Farm
99%
(35)
15mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 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
15 Acre Wood on Lake
2. 15 Acre Wood on Lake
95%
(43)
30mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 1 site
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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Sonny Hills
3. Sonny Hills
100%
(86)
32mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 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
Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting
4. Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting
100%
(14)
35mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 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
Places of Sanctuary
5. Places of Sanctuary
99%
(75)
38mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Places of Sanctuary has 30 Acres of woods which include several dedicated hiking trails with beautiful clearings and benches for resting and reflecting along the way. You're welcome to fish in the pond where there is plenty of shade and sun or sit around the bonfire site on the benches provided and roast marshmallows. With two easy-access large tree houses, swings and a big picnic shelter, there's lots of room to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. You might encounter wildlife like deer, mink, ducks or geese, but you're sure to see our chickens running around and hear our rooster crow in the morning. Depending on the time and season, we offer several hands-on experiences with berry picking, chicken tending, food processing, gardening, and general light land maintenance like checking the trails for down limbs and trash. With gorgeous views and the convenience of being just 10 minutes from University Southern Indiana or 15 minutes from restaurants and stores, we welcome you to camp with us. If you are interested in staying longer than 5 nights or your RV/camper is longer than 32 feet long, please message us to see if we can accommodate your visit. Usually, we can!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Tall Tree Lake
6. Tall Tree Lake
98%
(48)
50mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 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
Brown Farm
7. Brown Farm
22mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
14.5 acres in South Eastern Illinois only an hour from Shawnee NF and Garden of the Gods to the south or an hour east to Rend Lake.
Evansville Indiana is the nearest larger city. My wife and I live here in our barn with our two dogs. We raise chickens, ducks and geese and have a large garden. The property has trails into the woods sections where you will find plenty of places to pitch a tent.
There are also some old growth trees including a Tulip Poplar that is awe inspiring. We see a wide variety of wildlife also. Come stay and enjoy the peace and quiet, amazing sunsets and an incredible night sky.
Bryan Brown.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Wildfire Ranch
8. Wildfire Ranch
100%
(2)
23mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Wildfire Ranch is a licensed campground located in the heart of Southern Illinois. Wildfire Ranch is mainly geared toward equine events, with our focus on youth rodeos and barrel races, but we host many different types of events all year long!
At Wildfire Ranch, we offer plenty to do. We have a playground, mini-golf course, basketball court, and much more! You might even see a team of horses pulling the wagon! We would love for you and your family to come enjoy a weekend at Wildfire. See you soon!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Brokn L Camp
9. Brokn L Camp
100%
(5)
30mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
The Brokn L Camp has 10 rolling acres with two campsites. Our Fireside site has two rock-pads for a tent or RV with a water spigot nearby. The Positive Outlook site offers primitive tent camping with tree coverage. All campers have access to the outhouse facility, the lean-to, and the large fire-pit with free fire wood. Throughout the 10 acres campers can also use the private walking/ATV paths. The property is located right next to our 20 acre horse pasture and across the road from our horse riding arena. Campers can check on the availability for additional options to ride horses, rent a golf cart, and purchase fresh farm eggs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Rock Hole Meadow
10. Rock Hole Meadow
100%
(1)
32mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 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
Bubba J's RV Park
11. Bubba J's RV Park
88%
(4)
32mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 13 sites
Welcome to Bubba J's RV Park.
85' + Pull Throughs with FULL hookups - 20/30/50 Amp Electric - year-round water (bring a pressure regulator, our water pressure is great!)- 4" sewer.
Huge clean restrooms (sorry, no showers).
Each site has a picnic table and fire pit (firewood NOT provided so please bring your own).
Pets
Full hookups
La Forêt
12. La Forêt
33mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
Primitive camping at its best. Park and camp in lush forest. It's Bigfoot land! Luckily it's minutes to all the city amenities. Close to cinema, coffee shops, art museum, water park, little league tournaments, restaurants, airport and interstate highway. Yet so secluded that you can get away and leave civilization behind. La Forêt has six acres of land with deer, rabbit, turtles, beavers, and so many birds. You can adventure into the six acres of thick forest at your own risk. Bring your insect spray. Thick forest can get you lost, so take precautions if you dare to venture.
Parking is best for 30' and under vehicles. There is a table, two chairs and a canopy for your pleasure. Please do not move the table. The security is good as the storage facility nearby has surveillance cameras and 24 hour lights. Camp where you feel comfortable.
Public toilets can be found in any direction. Lots of gas stations and one even has showers for $12. They provide towel, wash cloths and soap. There are electrical outlets in public park pavilions to charge up power banks.
Grills are allowed but please stay on gravel driveway. Enjoy the peacefulness of the forest. Trees emit volatile organic compounds known as "phytoncides". Inhaling these airborne compounds lowers stress hormones (like cortisol) and stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system.
Pets
Picnic table
Little Lusk Campground And Lodging
13. Little Lusk Campground And Lodging
100%
(1)
35mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 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
Hitesville Opry House Park
14. Hitesville Opry House Park
100%
(3)
38mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
We can accommodate up to 8 RVs or campers and many tents.
Kentucky Bike Rally (Little Sturgis) 20 minutes away
Amenities:
• Electric:
• 1 × 50-amp service
• 6 × 30-amp services
• Water
• Wi-Fi
Dump Station On-Site
Minutes away from great Hunting and Fishing
Our small horse farm is conveniently located in beautiful historic Hitesville, KY, nestled in the valley of Hunter Hill with views of rolling farmland.
Watch for our music and band venues at the Hitesville Opry House, and check out upcoming events at http://www.hitesville.com
We’re a family-friendly venue, so please mind your P’s and Q’s—but most importantly, enjoy your stay!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Farm-ish Camp & Gather Barn
15. The Farm-ish Camp & Gather Barn
100%
(3)
42mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Camp and gather at our family owned farm- The Farm-ish Momstead, also known as The Martin Family Farm. Available for primitive camping, day use, or event gathering. Amenities could include the use of the event barn for groups and events, a lake, fishing (bring your own pole and tackle, kayak or SUPs), bonfire pits, a shelter house, and a reliving farm experience if you choose to take part- beef cows, dairy goats (often including milking and goat kids), a mini highland cow, and chickens.
Included in your stay is our resident Safety Manager, our collie Tilly. Please know she has a job to do and her best tool is her voice. You may hear barking as she keeps critters away. Other than that, she’s super friendly, although she may forget her manners at times and jump when excited.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Essence of The Lake of Egypt
16. The Essence of The Lake of Egypt
43mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 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
Crystal Springs
17. Crystal Springs
90%
(5)
44mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 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
Updated Farmhouse In Private Setting!
18. Updated Farmhouse In Private Setting!
48mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 1 site
Take it easy at this unique and tranquil getaway. Watch beautiful sunsets and get close to nature while sitting on a west-facing patio or the large sitting porch complete with rocking chairs. You can definitely get away from it all here. Home sits in the middle of 120 acres of farmland now held in the Conservation Reserve Program which promotes wildlife habitat in beautiful Western Kentucky.
The space
This one-of-a-kind hideaway is for guests who want quiet, privacy, and a country setting. The house has been completely updated and offers the kind of getaway we all need from time to time!
Guest access
The house and the surrounding 2 acres are available to guests. The other 118 acres are reserved for wildlife habitat.
Other things to note
Although the farm is just 1 mile from the nearest highway, you will feel like you are much further away from the hustle and bustle. You can stay connected with our Starlink internet service even though you are in the country.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Old Barn inside an Industrial Park
19. Old Barn inside an Industrial Park
88%
(8)
50mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
Our place is close to 64 & 69.
It's a late-1800's farmhouse with an antique barn situated in the middle of an industrial park, so it can be loud during the day.
Since we've added a gravel parking lot for barn concerts, there are just a few camping spots. Vehicles are welcome. We sometimes have a portajohn.
You can sit around a fire on our property and look at the stars at night (when there's not a fire ban).
The Blue Grass Fish and Wildlife Area is a up the road. You could ride your bike there, kayak, canoe, fish, etc.
Fyi, we have honeybees, so if you're allergic to honeybees stings, be equipped. The bees rarely bother us, but they can be seen feeding on clover, so wear shoes if you're allergic. Otherwise, we recommend bare feet on the ground while being conscious where you're traversing.
If you're interested in herbs and/or foraging , classes may be available depending on availability/season.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Burrell Park Campground
20. Burrell Park Campground
11mi from Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area
Discover the charm of Burrell Woods Bicentennial Park, a unique campground nestled in a serene rural landscape that invites you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This tranquil retreat is perfect for nature lovers seeking a peaceful getaway, offering a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy.
The park features well-maintained walking and running trails that wind through lush greenery, providing an ideal setting for exercise or leisurely strolls. For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, Burrell Woods offers both camper hookups and tent camping options, ensuring a comfortable stay for all types of adventurers.
Picnic facilities are available, allowing you to savor meals surrounded by the park's abundant tall, shady trees, which create a perfect atmosphere for relaxation. Whether you're planning a family outing or a solo retreat, Burrell Woods Bicentennial Park is the perfect destination to unwind and reconnect with nature. Explore the nearby attractions, including natural swimming holes and local shops and restaurants, to enhance your experience in this beautiful rural setting.
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
S
Sophia
1 day ago
16 ft car
A great place to camp!
I stayed here on a drive across the country. The campsite is quiet, tucked away from the busy streets.
Has a clean bathroom, and wash station to wash dishes, firewood/ pit for a fire, and a beautiful view (there were horses in the field next to me when I woke up!).
The campsite I was in also has a small tire swing, a bench, and covered spot where they had an outdoor mat, some chairs and a small table set up. It was raining when I woke up and so it was a great spot to eat breakfast. The site is towards the back of the land, which was also really nice.
The host was also super communicative and accommodating for my late arrival. I really appreciated that they left some small lights on for me, especially since I arrived after dark.
See more
S
Samantha
3 days ago
Tent
Beautiful spot overlooking the picturesque horse pasture. Clean bathroom and sink, 9.5/10 privacy score, so peaceful if you don’t mind some occasional goat/rooster noises. Stayed here to shorten the drive to Shawnee national forest
See more
C
Carli
3 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.
See more
S
Sue
2 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!!!!
See more
A
Anton
3 weeks ago
31 ft Class A
With pets
Beautiful and peaceful RV campground. The perfect place to relax away from the crowds. Quiet atmosphere, nice nature, and a few things to do around the area.
See moreA
Anton
3 weeks ago
31 ft Class A
With pets
A beautiful, quiet campground tucked away from the city noise on a peaceful ranch. Everything is brand new, including the hook-ups and facilities, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The hosts are incredibly friendly and welcoming. Perfect place to relax and recharge!
See more
S
Sean
April 2026
Tent
The site was nice and only a short walk from very nice bathrooms with showers. Bill and Robin were very nice and their son who met us was very pleasant. Though we weren’t far from anything, we felt like we were fairly secluded in nature and had plenty of privacy to enjoy our time in nature without feeling like we were being watched. It was a very enjoyable getaway from our busy lives and we had a great time and plan on being back at some point.
See more
M
Mo
April 2026
Tent
Definitely a fave place! Dick truly treats all guests like extended family and goes above and beyond to ensure guests are happy! ☺️
See moreB
Blake
April 2026
S
Shaunna
April 2026
Tent
With pets
I loved tent camping here! It had everything a nature lover could dream of. Rock formations with waterfalls, grassland, a small pond and big open skies!
Susan was a great hostess and met me to show me the site. They had wood prepped for me in the fire ring and gave me complete privacy. They did check on me but I had everything I needed.
Shawnee parks near by had a lot to offer and I got two full days of hiking in.
See more
G
Gregory
April 2026
20 ft Class B
With pets
Secluded, well maintained. Great for our dogs and us. No complaints!
See moreA
Angel
April 2026
Tent
Hosts were very kind and the land was gorgeous. Highly recommend
See moreM
Mo
April 2026
16 ft car
Absolutely beautiful site! Watching the moon over the field with the string lights overhead made for a wonderfully serene time.
See more
J
Joshua
April 2026
16 ft campervan
The spot was private and secluded. Navigation was slightly rough, but getting to your spot at 4:30 A.M. Will do that to any good camp site.
See more
M
Mo
April 2026
16 ft car
I loved camping here! The trails were clean and easy to navigate, the bathrooms are extremely clean and well maintained, and the views of the sunset and blossoming trees were absolutely incredible. I can’t wait to come back! I never got the chance to meet Robin but Bill is wonderful! Highly recommend if you want a peaceful getaway.❤️
See moreL
Lori
March 2026
29 ft travel trailer
With pets
Fabulous! We arrived just as it got dark. The hosts greeted us to guide us to the spot to park. Super easy! Hosts were very friendly and welcoming! The camping site is beautiful. The dogs were free to run (and swim). It was peaceful and quiet. Would definitely recommend! We’ll be back!
See more
Lorie
March 2026
1 night at Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting
The cabin in the woods was awesome! It has everything you need for a good nights stay. The view is beautiful. The area is so peaceful and quiet. Beautiful starry night sky. Close to many hiking areas!
See more
G
Greg
March 2026
Tent
Great secluded camp site next to the creek and cliffs of the national forest.
Burden Falls are just down the road, Garden of the Gods is about 30mins drive. Great hiking and sightseeing!
Sarah and Ron were very responsive, friendly, and made sure we had everything we needed.
10/10 - we'll be back for sure!
See moreT
Tyler
March 2026
Tent
Nice area! Bill was friendly and nice to talk to. Peaceful little area
See more
B
Britni
March 2026
15 ft campervan
Jennifer & her husband were above and beyond accommodating! I booked last minute after the USFS campground I was trying to stay in was full, and so happy I stumbled upon Jennifer’s property instead. I was their first guest of the year, so I likely caught them off guard, but the property was absolutely perfect. I was looking for solitude, a bonfire, and clear view of the sky. This place was perfect; trees for hammocking, peaceful pond, perfect view of the sky (highly recommend for new moon or full moon!) And supplied firewood was an added bonus. When the weather shifted dramatically the day of my departure, Jennifer kindly offered an additional complimentary night if it meant safer travel for me the following day. I will absolutely stay here again!
See moreHamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area camping guide
Overview
About
Cast your line at this 75-acre lake with a maximum depth of 18 feet. Find your sweet fishing spot quickly, because Dolan Lake has 3 miles of shoreline.
Your line might get nibbles from largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, crappie, channel catfish, or bullheads. It's easy to bring your trophies back to your campsite since they're near the lake shore.
Take aim with your shotgun at the first-come, first-served manual clay bird thrower trap area. The trap is open year-round. Please pick up hulls from your clays and keep the area clean. Of course, please use all safety precautions when using shotguns.
Camp near the water at one of 60 standard campsites with electricity. Ten standard tent sites allow for rustic camping. Five cabins have heat and air conditioning along with a full-size bed and two bunk beds.
Reviews for Hamilton County State Fish & Wildlife Area Campgrounds
Be the first to review
Share your experience here to help other campers.
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.