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The best camping in Washington County State Recreational Area, IL
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Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Washington County State Recreational Area adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Washington County State Recreational Area
Washington County Campground
1. Washington County Campground
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Got a hankering for a bit of outdoor relaxation? Whether you want to kick it lakeside or get out on the water for some boating or fishing, you will love crashing at Washington County Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Top-rated campsites near Washington County State Recreational Area
Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking
1. Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking
100%
(16)
19mi from Washington County State Recreational Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our rural farm oasis, where two shaded RV/Camper spots await for you to park and enjoy yourself in nature and the fresh country air! Each spot features concrete pads and is shaded by mature trees, providing a comfortable setting for your stay. Please note that spots are available for parking only; camper/RV is not included. Just a short 5-minute drive away, is the Prairie State Power Plant if you're in the area for work. Sparta, IL is about 12 minutes away for any supplies you would need or Marissa, IL is about a 7 minute drive.
Enjoy convenient access to electric hookups, including 50 amp, 30 amp, and 110v options. Additionally, a sewer drop is located within 15 feet of each spot, along with a water hookup for your convenience.
Both spots are situated in close proximity to our farm and two other Airbnb homes. When booked, you have access to the lake and a small pond down the lane. Please stay to the right of the Y and head across the dam. **No access permitted after dark.** These spots are great for fishing and/or having a picnic enjoying a private wooded area.
Just a short 5-minute drive away, is the Prairie State Power Plant if you're in the area for work. Sparta, IL is about 12 minutes away for any supplies you would need or Marissa, IL is about a 7 minute drive.
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and rural charm at our shaded RV/Camper spots, where the beauty of nature meets modern comfort.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Harmony Hill Acres
2. Harmony Hill Acres
98%
(31)
22mi from Washington County State Recreational Area · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Ranch lands of a prior Horse Ranch at the edge of town is conveniently located. Most of the property is pasture area but plenty of yard for tent camping and LOTS of space for those who want to pitch a tent in the pastures. We have small goats, chickens, and turkeys on-site (please do not enter barn or animal pens). There are no hookups for water or power, but we can accommodate some use of water from our spigots.
We live about 2 miles from our local lake, which has boat access and paddling access.
The beautiful view of sunsets and sunrises are spectacular more times than not. We host large herd of deer traveling and sometimes bedding down in our pastures, so be sure to watch early mornings for them to be on the move.
We are very close to town, but the 18-acre site brings a serene aspect to the grounds.
***WE ARE BRINGING IN A PORTA-POTTY OR 2 FOR THE TENT CAMPERS OVER THE WEEKEND OF 4/6/24 SOLAR ECLIPSE. WE ALSO HAVE A COTTAGE KITCHEN AND WILL HAVE A FEW BREAKFAST ITEMS, BREADS, AND SWEET BREADS FOR ORDER.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Big Muddy Brewing
3. Big Muddy Brewing
96%
(51)
35mi from Washington County State Recreational Area · 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
4. Pond Ridge Adventure
98%
(33)
39mi from Washington County State Recreational Area · 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
Hidden Waters At Buttercup Ranch
5. Hidden Waters At Buttercup Ranch
91%
(16)
40mi from Washington County State Recreational Area · 3 sites
Camp on our farm! Canoeing, fishing, and farm tour are available while you relax in the great outdoors. Lush greenery, beautiful lakes, and friendly animals will surround you. Secluded primitive campsites also have firepits (wood included) for cooking. Shared flushable porta -potty for your convenience.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Atkins' Acres Educational Farm
6. Atkins' Acres Educational Farm
100%
(12)
43mi from Washington County State Recreational Area · 1 site
We are a 501 (c)(3) non-profit educational farm. We teach gardening techniques, 4-H programs, Jr Master Naturalist programs, and how to be good stewards of the environment. We are taking row crops out of service and restoring the land to it's previous native condition. Tours are available at no cost by request.
Note - the camping area is approximately 200 yards from where you will park. If we are available, we can support with moving your supplies. However, if we are not home at the time of your arrival, you will need to walk your supplies in.
Campfires
Toilets
Picnic table
Wine Trail Wilderness
7. Wine Trail Wilderness
100%
(710)
45mi from Washington County State Recreational Area · 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.
Wine Trail Wilderness HipCamp was just honored with the "Top 50 Favorite Places to Camp in America" this year! We're honored to receive that distinguished title, and look forward to seeing y'all come out and camp in the beautiful Shawnee National Forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sugarloaf Creek
8. Sugarloaf Creek
98%
(23)
48mi from Washington County State Recreational Area · 1 site
A wooded, country oasis located 20 minutes away from downtown St. Louis. Plenty of city adventures to be had or relax on the peaceful deck overlooking a small creek. Some nearby local hiking spots near the Mississippi River flood plains. Fire pit available for use. Water and 30 AMP electric hookup.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Conant Crossing
9. Conant Crossing
100%
(1)
17mi from Washington County State Recreational Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Discover Conant Crossing, conveniently located across the street from Pyramid State Park. Just 11 minutes from Pinckneyville, IL, and 19 minutes from Sparta, IL, our site offers adjoining lots with 50 amp electric and potable county water hook-ups. Enjoy a common, covered picnic area with two picnic tables, fire pits, and electric access. Please note, we do not have wastewater dump facilities, but there is a Porta-Potty near the sites. A pond with fish is just a few hundred feet away, perfect for a relaxing day by the water.
WE HAVE NO WASTEWATER DUMP FACILITIES. Pyramid State Park has a dump station and there is a $5 dump fee(cash through the drop slot).
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Bubba J's RV Park
10. Bubba J's RV Park
88%
(4)
23mi from Washington County State Recreational 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
Old Bates Campground
11. Old Bates Campground
23mi from Washington County State Recreational Area · 8 sites
Thank you for selecting one of the few privately owned campgrounds near Rend Lake, where we pride ourselves on offering a unique camping experience year-round.
Located just five minutes west of the Visitor Center, our campground stands out as a welcoming retreat for campers in every season, whether you're here for work or leisure.
We provide full-hookup sites designed to meet your needs, ensuring a comfortable stay no matter the duration. If you don’t have your own camper, don’t worry—we offer convenient camper rentals on-site, allowing you to relax without the hassle of towing.
Our long-term full-hookup sites are perfect for accommodating all your outdoor toys, making it easy to explore the natural beauty of Rend Lake and the surrounding area. Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from fishing and hiking to swimming in nearby swimming holes.
You’ll also find local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, enhancing your camping experience. Come stop pulling and start enjoying the great outdoors with us!
Pets
Full hookups
La Forêt
12. La Forêt
100%
(3)
24mi from Washington County State Recreational Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
Primitive camping at its best. Park and camp in lush forest—it's Bigfoot country! Luckily, you're just minutes from city amenities, including a cinema, coffee shops, art museum, water park, little league fields, restaurants, the airport, and the interstate highway. Yet it feels secluded enough that you can truly get away and leave civilization behind.
La Forêt offers six acres of land filled with deer, rabbits, turtles, beavers, and a wide variety of birds. You are welcome to explore the forest at your own risk. Please bring insect repellent, as the thick woods can be challenging to navigate—take precautions if you venture out.
Parking is best suited for vehicles 30 feet and under. A table, two chairs, and a canopy are provided for your comfort—please do not move the table. Security is supported by nearby storage facility surveillance cameras and 24-hour lighting. Camp wherever you feel most comfortable.
Public restrooms can be found in several nearby locations. There are also multiple gas stations, and one offers showers for $12, including towels, washcloths, and soap. Electrical outlets are available at public park pavilions for charging power banks.
Grills are allowed, but please use them only on the gravel driveway. Enjoy the peaceful forest setting. Trees emit volatile organic compounds known as phytoncides. Inhaling these compounds may help reduce stress hormones (such as cortisol) and support relaxation.
Pets
Picnic table
Camp at Fyke Hill
13. Camp at Fyke Hill
26mi from Washington County State Recreational Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Camp at Fyke Hill, a quiet, shaded retreat in the scenic countryside of Southern Illinois. Whether you're traveling with an RV, pitching a tent, or looking for a peaceful overnight stop, you'll enjoy a relaxing stay surrounded by mature trees, fresh air, and the beauty of nature.
Our spacious campsites offer plenty of room to spread out and unwind, making them perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers alike. Enjoy peaceful mornings with birdsong, spend your evenings around the campfire, and take in the calm atmosphere away from the crowds.
Conveniently located near Carlyle Lake and other local outdoor recreation areas, Camp at Fyke Hill is an excellent basecamp for fishing, boating, hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring Southern Illinois. After a day of adventure, return to your campsite to relax beneath the stars and enjoy the tranquility of the property.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a road trip stop, or an extended camping adventure, Camp at Fyke Hill offers the perfect combination of privacy, comfort, and easy access to the region's natural attractions. We look forward to welcoming you and helping you enjoy everything Southern Illinois has to offer.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Kaskaskia River Camping & RV Park
14. Kaskaskia River Camping & RV Park
81%
(18)
28mi from Washington County State Recreational Area · 41 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to the Village of New Athens RV Park! We sincerely appreciate your choice to stay with us. As you settle in, we're thrilled to invite you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our campgrounds and the warmth of our community.
Our park offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. You'll find convenient water hookups and sewer connections, along with waterfront views that promise a serene and picturesque experience. Embrace the outdoors at our picnic area and explore the surrounding landscapes, as we happily welcome pets, making your stay pet-friendly. For the adventurous souls, we have hike and bike campsites, providing opportunities for thrilling exploration on our gravel roads.
Should you require any essentials during your stay, rest assured, we have gasoline available nearby. And as the evening settles in, gather around the fire pit, where cherished memories are created, fostering camaraderie among fellow travelers.
While you're here, don't miss out on the various activities we offer. Cast a line and indulge in the art of fishing, or take to the waters for a boating adventure that promises to be both invigorating and unforgettable.
Once again, thank you for being our guest. We look forward to making your time with us truly memorable as you embrace the wonders of our Village of New Athens RV Park. Happy exploring!
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Wildfire Ranch
15. Wildfire Ranch
100%
(4)
34mi from Washington County State Recreational 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
16. Brokn L Camp
100%
(6)
34mi from Washington County State Recreational 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 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
TnT’s Lake Cabin at Kinkaid
17. TnT’s Lake Cabin at Kinkaid
100%
(1)
34mi from Washington County State Recreational Area · 1 site
🌲 Cozy Cabin Near Kinkaid Lake – Murphysboro, IL 🌊
Our charming cabin is located just 1/4 mile from Kinkaid Lake, the marina, and public boat ramp, right outside Murphysboro, Illinois.
🏡 2 Bedrooms | 1½ Baths | Sleeps 6
Enjoy all the comforts of home, including:
✔️ WiFi
✔ Fully stocked kitchen with microwave, coffee & coffee pot
✔ Small back deck with BBQ grill & utensils
✔ Fire pit with wood provided
✔ Ample boat parking
Whether you’re boating, fishing, hunting, hiking, or simply relaxing in the heart of Southern Illinois and the beautiful Shawnee National Forest, our cabin is the perfect getaway.
Come stay with us and enjoy lake life at its best! 🌅
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Crystal Springs
18. Crystal Springs
90%
(5)
36mi from Washington County State Recreational 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
Site 107.
19. Site 107.
100%
(9)
36mi from Washington County State Recreational Area · 1 site
We are located about a half mile off the main highway right out side of town. Back in our second driveway and enjoy our little bit of paradise. Hang out at the tiki bar and grill some burgers or sit on the beach and enjoy the sunshine. You can also sit by the goldfish pond and listen to the water run down the stream. You can end the night with a nice fire in the fire pit.. this site offers a little bit of everything, no need to go anywhere else you can have a nice getaway at the 107. Full hook ups are available 30 and 50 amp.
Pets
Full hookups
Middle Eden
20. Middle Eden
89%
(22)
43mi from Washington County State Recreational Area · 2 sites
Escape to Our 16-Acre Permaculture Paradise
Nestled among majestic oaks, pecans, apples, hazelnuts, mulberries, and black/honey locusts, our developing agroforestry biome recreates the breathtaking pre-Columbian oak-hickory savanna. We’re passionate about sharing this regenerative haven with fellow nature lovers.
Private Campsites with Thoughtful Amenities: Each site features an established campfire ring and plenty of dead wood near sites —perfect for cozy evenings under the stars. Sites are a scenic 300–500 ft walk from parking, depending on your chosen spot. You will not be able to park directly next to the campsite.
Secure Parking Note: Parking is on a quiet dead-end road monitored by security cameras. It’s not secluded, so we don’t recommend car camping.
Dogs: due to our multi-animal operation, we cannot host dogs at this time.
Book now and immerse yourself in a living food forest—where camping meets ecological restoration.
We love hosting families. Kids 12 and under are free!
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
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Megan
2 weeks ago
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Nick
3 weeks ago
Tent
The host Mary was great! Very friendly and accommodating even when I had to relocate my campsite when my hammock wouldn’t reach between trees. Great views and even had multiple fire pits!
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C
Colleen
June 2026
Tent
Description was exactly on point- loved the peaceful wooded area and saw lots of animals. Took some great pics!
Would recommend as a stopping point on a road trip as it secluded, quiet and great price. Thanks to the host
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B
Brianna
June 2026
Tent
Jon was absolutely wonderful! The campsite was breathtaking, and we had a wonderful view of the stars. Jon even taught us southern folk how to play Bocce ball! Overall wonderful experience and campsite! :)
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Kristine
June 2026
25 ft travel trailer
If you have never been to BFE...this is it! Maybe you think you have been before...you have not LOL.
Beautiful property with amazing views of the sky and super quiet! Jon is super amazing and helpful. He has truly thought of everything!
Had a wonderfully relaxing weekend!
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Trey
June 2026
32 ft pop-up camper
Cheri was a thoughtful and responsive host. I loved the Overlook and gentle shaded Hill where the property is located. Nicely shaded by trees right next to a small barn with goats and chickens. Very peaceful, relaxing spot where I would stay again.
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Kim
June 2026
13 ft travel trailer
With pets
This is a great spot! Jon is so nice and his website is above and beyond.
See moreN
Nolen
June 2026
16 ft car
The property was great and exactly what I needed for my one night stay. The land was beautiful, quiet, and peaceful. Clay was a phenomenal host and answered any questions I had in a very timely manner. I would definitely recommend this land for any future campers.
See moreA
Allison
June 2026
30 ft Class C
With pets
Jon was such a helpful host and the site was gorgeous. Our dogs and kids loved it too. The grill was awesome to be able to use. Jon said he has the best water we'd ever taste and he was right! Our youngest insisted on filling her water bottle only from the provided water container. We definitely would stay again if in the area.
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D
Dana
June 2026
23 ft Class B
Remote and
Quiet! Beautiful land! I got there later than I planned so I didn’t get to enjoy it as I intended but it was a nice overnight
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M
Madeline
June 2026
Tent
Easy to find, host is great and site is spacious and nice!
See moreR
Rosemary
June 2026
Tent
I stopped off the highway for a safe and quiet spot to park the camper. La Forêt was perfect. Close to I-57 and convenient to several toilets at truck stops. The one close to the highway even had showers for cheap. I highly recommend this parking spot.
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Brian
June 2026
Tent
Get time camping at Jon's. Everything was taken care of and he checked in to make sure everything was going well. He's truly thought of everything.
See moreR
Roberta
June 2026
Tent
We loved staying at Jon's! It's peaceful, quiet, and beautiful. Jon is a wonderful host, showing us our site. We ordered wood in advance, and Jon had it waiting for us. He checks in, and he has local recommendations. We would absolutely stay again!
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Griffin
May 2026
Tent
Great little spot not far from I64, Jeff was super helpful in showing us our site. Their Great Pyrenees dog was a sweetheart and not bothersome at all.
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J
Jeremy
May 2026
21 ft travel trailer
Very clean and peaceful! The setting is beautiful. The oversized concrete pad was perfect and great for grilling. It was nice to not have to deal with a muddy mess like some places that don’t offer concrete pads or ones that aren’t this large, when it rains. Would definitely stay again.
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A
Alana
May 2026
Tent
Such a beautiful camping site on the lake! Host was so friendly and helpful, and we really appreciated the supplied firewood. Would recommend to anyone traveling around the area. Would definitely camp here again!
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Sophia
May 2026
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.
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A
Amanda
May 2026
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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S
Samantha
May 2026
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 moreWashington County State Recreational Area camping guide
Overview
About
Echoed by mourning dove calls that reverberate through the dew-licked pines and dotting the county's sun-kissed hillsides, Washington County State Recreational Area is teeming with fauna. This near-fifteen-hundred-acre ecological oasis is nestled just four miles from Nashville in southern Illinois―a far cry from it’s adjacent concrete jungles, aside from the skyscraper-like pines. And, criss crossed by the area’s two small creeks, Washington County State Recreational Area is inundated with well-populated, stable populations of largemouth bass and other like-sized game fish. Even if you’re not a fan of dancing bobbers, you’ll find situational ecstasy while dining under one of the park’s lake-hugging picnic pavilions, bathed in sunset yellows―and, let's face it, everyone’s a fan of solar acrobatics paired with well-made egg salad.
Reviews for Washington County State Recreational Area Campgrounds
100%
1 ratings · 0 reviews
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