Camping Shawnee National Forest

Camping Shawnee National Forest

Shawnee National Forest is a vast forested area located in southern Illinois, covering over 280,000 acres of land. With numerous hiking trails, camping areas, and recreational opportunities, the forest attracts nature lovers from all over. Camping in Shawnee National Forest is a popular activity for visitors who wish to experience the natural beauty of the forest while enjoying the outdoors. In this article, we will highlight some of the best camping spots in the Shawnee National Forest.

Garden of the Gods Campground:

This campground is located in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest and offers breathtaking views of the rock formations. The campground has 54 campsites, all with fire rings and picnic tables. There are also shower facilities and a playground for children.

Pounds Hollow Recreation Area:

This campground is situated near a beautiful lake and is a popular spot for swimming and fishing. The campground has 36 campsites, all with electricity and water hookups. There are also picnic areas, hiking trails, and a boat ramp.

Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area:

This campground is located in a scenic canyon and has 14 primitive campsites. The campground is ideal for hikers, as it provides access to several trails in the area, including the River to River Trail.

Camp Cadiz:

This campground is located near the Ohio River and has 13 primitive campsites. The campground is popular for its access to the river and its great fishing opportunities.

Oak Point Campground:

This campground is located on Lake Glendale and has 66 campsites, all with electricity and water hookups. There is also a swimming beach, boat ramp, and hiking trails.

Conclusion

When camping in Shawnee National Forest, it is important to keep in mind that the forest is a natural environment, and visitors are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out all trash, using established fire rings, and staying on designated trails.

There are also several other recreational opportunities available in the Shawnee National Forest. Hiking is a popular activity, and the forest has over 320 miles of trails, ranging from easy to difficult. The River to River Trail is a 160-mile trail that runs through the forest from the Ohio River to the Mississippi River.

The forest is also home to several lakes and rivers, which offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The Ohio River is a popular spot for boating, and Lake Glendale and Pounds Hollow Lake are great for fishing.

In addition to camping, hiking, and recreational opportunities, the Shawnee National Forest is also home to several natural wonders, including the Garden of the Gods rock formations and the Pomona Natural Bridge. The forest is also home to several endangered species, such as the Indiana bat and the Mississippi River otter.

Overall, camping in Shawnee National Forest is a great way to experience the natural beauty of southern Illinois. With its numerous camping spots, hiking trails, and recreational opportunities, the forest is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.