The best camping near Shawnee National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Shawnee National Forest adventure.

94% (27 reviews)

Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.

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Community favorites near Shawnee National Forest

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Stay at a public campground in Shawnee National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Shawnee National Forest

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Sonny Hills

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents70 acres · Eddyville, IL

70 secluded acres adjoining the Shawnee National Forest area with some hiking opportunities, woods and water activities. 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, Completely modernized, with Heating/ac, full kitchen with dishwasher, microwave and refrigerator, coffee pot, grill, laundry, NO INTERNET. Kitchen is fully equipped with all cooking utensils, crock pot, toasters, dual flex brew coffeemaker, plates and all utensils, as well as with 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. Hot Tub on the large back deck with nice views of private lake and hills. Enjoy the large front porch that adjoins the deck and wraps around 3/4 of the cabin. Secluded, private, Fire pit. Free firewood. $115.00 per night for two people, Discount for weekday stay. 2 night minimum. Tent and RV camping sites 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 suggested that campers arrive at or before sunset. The drive is not lit, and the camp area also has no lights. Shade or sunny areas. Pets and service dogs welcome with notice. 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. NO lifeguard on duty. Life preservers/jackets must be worn when around the pond. All above activities are done at your own risk, children must be supervised.

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(158)

The Art Farm Women's Retreat

43 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents34 acres · Paducah, KY

The farm is women owned and operated. This 34 acres of rolling farmland, woods and pasture is surrounded by farmland and woodlands on all sides. Enjoy nature. Watch wildlife. Listen to the birds singing. You will often see deer in the evenings. Walk or drive to the main residence to enjoy the pool, hot tub and hot outdoor shower. (5 minute walk or 1 minute drive) We have a few dedicated women's campouts each year, and some art-making workshops, retreats, and quilting weekends, too. Other times we are open and inclusive of all. Native land of Chickasaw, Quapaw and Osage nations. LGBTQ friendly. :)

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(32)

Tall Tree Lake

62 sites · RVs, Tents220 acres · Buncombe, IL

We are a 220 acre family owned and operated campground in the middle of the Shawnee National forest. We love providing a safe, beautiful, peaceful, and central location for people to enjoy our beautiful area. Fishing and hiking are welcomed for all of our guests! Located in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest. Close proximity to Ferne Clyffe State Park, Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, and only a 10 minute drive from I-24.

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(4)

Ridge Camping Private

34 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Mill Creek, IL

You will hike to your private primitive destination. We ask that you please have an above ground firepit! Explore the property and enjoy a private stay!!!!!!!!!!!

88%

(34)

Watson's Rivercamp Retreat

6 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Evansville, IN

Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, this primitive camp is ideal for nearby fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming! Our unique location offers a picturesque view of downtown Evansville and Dutch’s Island. Set in a no-wake zone, the shallow beachy island also serves as a barrier from the river channel creating calm lake-like waters. We are located only 0.2mi from Dogtown boat ramp and 300ft from Nu Plaza marina. Biking, walking/hiking trails, local park, and pool nearby. On our property, we allow our campers the flexibility to pick their own perfect spot to camp. There are large mature trees that offer plenty of shade and flat ground for an easy setup. Each site has a firepit, picnic table, and nearby trash can. A firewood bundle is included and complimentary smores packages upon request. Our property features 2 communal areas each with a fire pit, charcoal grill, tables, chairs, and lights. There is access to electric power strips and water hoses in each communal area. Kayaks are available to registered campers only first come, first serve. Price is $25 or a single kayak, $50 for a tandem. Includes lifejackets. We look forward to having you!

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Fullerosa Horseback And Hunting

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents65 acres · Eddyville, IL

Experience unparalleled privacy, seclusion, and the soothing sounds of nature during your stay in this expansive and distinctive retreat. Unlike any other private property in the vicinity, our land boasts an array of natural features including ponds, waterfalls, cliffs, bluffs, fields, forests, trails, and creeks scattered throughout. With several trails branching out in all directions into the Shawnee National Forest, exploration opportunities abound. Each of our spacious campsites is thoughtfully designed to afford maximum privacy, ensuring a peaceful and undisturbed retreat into nature. Just a short 5-10 minute drive down the road, Burden Falls awaits, offering a scenic natural wonder to explore. The Garden of the Gods, another iconic attraction, is a mere 15-20 minute drive away, inviting you to marvel at its breathtaking rock formations and panoramic vistas. For added convenience and indulgence, homemade breakfast and lunch sandwiches are available upon request, allowing you to savor delicious meals without the hassle of preparation. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and indulge in the ultimate retreat experience at our unique property.

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Rock Hole Meadow

4 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Stonefort, IL

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. Accessible via a short walk from the designated parking area, the wooded campsites are clearly marked for your convenience. 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.

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Robyn M.’s Land

81 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents42 acres · Tamms, IL

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Ande's Place 148 Green Rd, Kuttawa

2 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Kuttawa, KY

Learn more about this land: Rolling Hills and wide-open spaces. Primitive to (6) full-service (water, sewer, and 120, 30, or 50 amp electric) camping, located on 60 acres of rolling hills and timber just a few minutes walk to Lake Barkley in beautiful Kentucky. Wooded areas with plenty of room to enjoy yourselves without being on top of your neighbors. Our address is 148 Green Rd. Kuttawa, KY 42055. NOTE: Our primitive tent sites are $20 per night and our Full hook-up sites are $29. Please message or call us to verify availability before booking!

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Maxwell’s by the lake

4 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Grand Rivers, KY

Learn more about this land:I am currently renovating the home on the property for a bed and breakfast to be open next season and also will be setting up rv pads and possible tiny homes later but for now I would like to offer the land for campers . Working on public restrooms and showers as well as laundry facilities..

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Riverview Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Grand Chain, IL

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The Creekside JeWeL

10 sites · Tents73 acres · Eddyville, KY

Learn more about this land: 73 acres of secluded rolling hills located on Lake Barkley/Eddy Creek. Lots of woods, meadows, and creekside camping available. Fishing, wildlife, shooting (please note firearm rules) hunting, ATV riding, kayaking, canoeing, boating, or nothing at all ! All groups are welcome at this sportsmans recreational au natural Hipcamp!

The best camping near Shawnee National Forest guide

Overview

About

Rambling across more than a quarter-million acres and nine counties in southernmost Illinois, Shawnee National Forest has ancient woodlands, rocky bluffs, lakes, and caves, all hemmed in by the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. Choose from more than 403 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, discover the dramatic sandstone cliffs of the Garden of the Gods, go rock climbing at Jackson Falls, or enjoy fishing and canoeing along the lakes and creeks. Campers can choose from nine campgrounds, two of which provide electric hook-ups, as well as dispersed camping in several areas of the forest.

Notable campgrounds

Best for hikers: Garden of the Gods Recreation Area has 12 non-electric campsites with easy access to the popular hiking trails.
Best for RVs: Lake Glendale Beach has 59 lakeside sites, 34 with electric hook-ups, plus showers and flush toilets.
Best for equestrian campers: Camp Cadiz Campground is a tranquil spot with basic facilities and eight non-electric sites.

Tips for snagging a campsite

All campgrounds at Shawnee National Forest are available on a first-come, first-served basis—advance reservations are not possible.
Smaller sites may fill up quickly over summer and holiday weekends, so plan an early Friday arrival if possible.

When to go

Outdoor adventurers benefit from mild weather year-round in the Shawnee National Forest. Spring and fall are the most colorful times to explore, when trails bloom with wildflowers or shed a rainbow of fall foliage. Many hiking trails are accessible right through winter, but snowfall is possible in the coldest months, so dress accordingly. Camping is also possible year-round, although some campgrounds close from December through March.

Know before you go

Shawnee National Forest is located in southernmost Illinois. Travel times depend on which part of the forest you’re traveling to, but most destinations are within a 2- or 2.5-hour drive of St. Louis.
There is no admission fee to visit Shawnee National Forest, but camping fees may apply.
Facilities include restrooms and picnic areas, but not much else—fill up on gas and pick up groceries from the nearest town before you enter the forest. Cell phone and GPS service is patchy throughout the forest.
Accessible day-use areas, campsites, and restrooms are available at Shawnee National Forest.