Shawnee National Forest region surrounds Olive Branch, Illinois, with elevations ranging from 300 to 700 feet above sea level. The area experiences humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F, while spring and fall bring milder conditions ideal for trail riding. Seasonal considerations affect trail accessibility with some paths becoming challenging after heavy rainfall periods common in April.
What to do
Trail riding at Equestrian Campground: Located in Ferne Clyffe State Park, this dedicated horse camping facility provides riders with convenient trail access. "Located near Shawnee National Forest. Beautiful area. Facilities nice. Hiking. Birding. Nature!!" notes Bill M. about the Equestrian Campground. The campground remains relatively quiet even during busy weekends.
Fishing opportunities: Lake access is available at several campgrounds in the region. "They have a small lake and two ponds for fishing," reports MickandKarla W. about Shawnee Forest Campground. Many sites offer shoreline access for anglers without requiring boats.
Hiking through unique formations: Trails lead through limestone bluffs and sandstone features. "Short trail leads from campground to the limestone cliffs. Once darkness hit the fireflies in the forest were magnificent!" shares Stephanie S. about Deer Ridge Campground. Several interconnected trail systems allow for various difficulty levels and durations.
What campers like
Seasonal wildlife viewing: The region offers excellent bird watching and night creatures. "We heard several owls calling in the trees around us when we went to bed, so we stayed up listening for awhile. In the middle of the night we were startled awake by a pair of owls in the tree right above us," describes Joel R. about Johnson Creek. Spring and fall migrations bring additional species through the area.
Convenient travel stops: Some campgrounds serve as ideal overnight points. "Great little stop, everything is clean and a fresh shower was refreshing," mentions Brian F. about Shawnee Forest Campground. Many sites are within 15-20 minutes of major highways.
Women's retreat options: Specialized campgrounds cater to group gatherings. "They also offer tiny home rentals, yurt-style glamping tents, RV spots with 30 amp, 50 amp and 110 outlets, and The Art Barn for larger groups, retreats or family reunions," explains Laura P. about The Art Farm Women's Retreat. These facilities provide alternatives to traditional forest camping.
What you should know
Limited horse facilities: While equestrian camping is available, some amenities may be basic. "I've stayed here a couple of times, car camping and tent camping. You have to walk from the parking lot into the basic sites but they are super close," reports Hannah H. about Equestrian Campground. Riders should bring water containers and feed supplies.
Campground variety: Sites range from primitive to full-hookup. "Crab Orchard Campground. All sites are FC/FS. Full hookups are in Loop B & it was full," notes Tracie E. about Crab Orchard Lake. Many campgrounds fill quickly on weekends, especially during fall colors season.
Trail conditions: Signage may be inconsistent across different areas. "My only complaint is the trails in this park are not clearly marked and they do not offer maps you can take with you," mentions Hannah H. Most horse trails remain usable year-round, though spring brings muddy sections.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Lakes and creeks provide cooling options during summer. "The campground is in the Shawnee National Forest, and right on Kincade lake," shares Joel R. about Johnson Creek. Most water access points lack lifeguards, so supervision is essential.
Budget-friendly options: Many sites offer reasonable rates for basic amenities. "This campground provides large spots, drinking water, vault toilets, dumpsters, picnic table, lantern hook, fire ring, and contactless check in. I also appreciate the value of these sites. It really is a reasonable rate for forest camping," reports Tabitha R. Prices typically range from $8-20 per night.
Walking paths: Former infrastructure creates unique exploration opportunities. "Located on a former golf course. Has the old golf cart paths as walking/biking paths! The sites are spacious and have picnic tables and fire rings," explains Greg S. about Shawnee Forest Campground. These paths offer easier walking options for younger children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. "Our site was not level and with all the rain we had, there were water puddles at the steps. There are some nice sites in this CG but we were not offered one of the better ones," advises MickandKarla W. RVers should request specific site numbers when booking at Giant City State Park.
Hookup variations: Electric and water access differs between campgrounds. "Very nice campground with little privacy. Well kept bathrooms and water pumps throughout," notes Stephanie S. Most established horse campgrounds near Olive Branch provide at least electric hookups, though full service remains limited.
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects site conditions significantly. "We chose site 21. The gravel roads are slightly narrow with some trees but we did not have any issues getting to site 21," reports MickandKarla W. Spring often brings muddy conditions while fall offers optimal camping with cooler temperatures.
Ranger
