Camping on the Lake of Egypt!

The Marion KOA Water Park is closed for the season.

Discover Marion/Shawnee National Forest KOA Holiday, the premier destination for campers seeking fun, adventure, and natural beauty. Located in Southern Illinois, our campground is nestled within the renowned Shawnee National Forest alongside the stunning Lake of Egypt. A true paradise for hikers, bikers, boaters, anglers, and nature lovers. Our campground is the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation. Unleash your adventurous spirit at our water park, where you can test your skills on our floating obstacle course or paddle out in a kayak, enjoy a friendly game of foosball, explore the lake's hidden gems by boat, journey through scenic trails, or gather around a cozy campfire with family and friends. Whether you spend your days exploring the sights of the forest or the thrill of the lake, there's an adventure for every camper at Marion/Shawnee National Forest KOA Holiday.

Where is Marion/Shawnee National Forest KOA Located? 
The Marion/Shawnee National Forest KOA Holiday is situated just 8 miles south of Marion, Illinois. Centered within the Shawnee National Forest, it offers an idyllic setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Positioned alongside the stunning Lake of Egypt, the campground provides easy access to a plethora of recreational activities, from hiking and biking to boating and fishing. Located in Southern Illinois, Marion/Shawnee National Forest KOA Holiday is the premier destination for campers seeking fun, adventure, and natural beauty.

What Amenities Does Marion/Shawnee National Forest KOA Offer?
Marion/Shawnee National Forest KOA Holiday offers a wide array of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all campers. From recreational facilities to essential conveniences, our campground has everything you need for a memorable outdoor adventure. Our on-site water park, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, includes a massive floating obstacle course for thrilling aquatic fun, a large swim deck with lounge chairs and shade, and access to watercraft like kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and paddle boats. Challenge friends and family to a friendly game of foosball, or explore the tranquil waters of the Lake of Egypt by renting a pontoon boat or jet ski from our on-site vendor, Lake of Egypt Pontoon and Jet Ski Rentals. Nearby, you'll find a plethora of scenic trails for hiking and biking enthusiasts to explore the beauty of the surrounding Shawnee National Forest. After a day of outdoor activities, gather around a cozy campfire with loved ones to share stories and create lasting memories. With a perfect balance of excitement and relaxation, Marion/Shawnee National Forest KOA Holiday offers amenities designed to enhance your camping experience and make it truly unforgettable.

Ways to Stay
Discover the essence of Marion/Shawnee National Forest KOA Holiday, where we embrace the individuality of every camper. Our accommodations are tailored to cater to a diverse range of preferences, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all. Whether you prefer the convenience of parking your RV in one of our spacious sites with full hookups, the charm of our cozy cabins nestled amidst the forest, or the tranquility of a traditional tent, we have something to suit every camper's desires. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors while indulging in the comforts of home.

  • Lodging: Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure in our cozy cabins, featuring a full-size bedroom, two loft bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, living room, bathroom with shower, spacious deck, and a boat slip for use during your stay. These well-appointed accommodations can accommodate up to six guests and offer modern amenities for a pleasant stay. Equipped with essentials like a full kitchen and charcoal grill, you'll enjoy the comforts of home amidst the wilderness. Escape to nature without sacrificing convenience.
  • RV Sites: Our RV sites are designed to meet your every need. Whether you choose our standard 50/30 Amp site with full hookups or the oversized patio with full hookups, you'll enjoy a serene and convenient stay. Perfect for RV enthusiasts, our sites offer 30/50/20 Amp options, full hookups, and close proximity to all campground amenities. It's your home away from home, surrounded by the natural beauty of the area.
  • Tent Sites: For those seeking an authentic camping experience, our tent sites provide the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. Set up camp under the starlit Illinois skies and relish in the simplicity of the outdoors. Amenities include a 14' x 14' mulch bed, picnic table, and close proximity to restrooms, electricity, and water. Your adventure awaits at Marion/Shawnee National Forest KOA Holiday.

Book a Stay at Marion/Shawnee National Forest KOA Today
Your grand adventure awaits! Secure your spot at Marion/Shawnee National Forest KOA and embark on a journey into the heart of nature's beauty. Our campground is the perfect canvas for a memorable family vacation, a romantic retreat, or a solo escapade. Don't let this chance to create lasting memories pass you by. Begin your adventure at Marion/Shawnee National Forest KOA; book your stay today!

Campground Amenities

  • 50 Max Amp
  • 80' Max Length
  • Wi-Fi
  • Cable TV
  • Snack Bar ($)
  • Fishing
  • Firewood ($)
  • Pavilion
  • Dog Park
More About Amenities

Ways to Stay

KOA Holiday

KOA Holiday Campgrounds

Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.

KOA Holidays Feature:

  • RV Sites with a KOA Patio®
  • Deluxe Cabins with full baths
  • Premium Tent Sites
  • Group meeting facilities

Latest Hot Deal

KOA Rewards Appreciation Weekend

KOA Rewards Appreciation Weekend Photo

WHEN: September 5-6, 2025

WHAT: KOA Rewards holders stay as a paying guest on Friday, September 5th at any participating KOA campground and get Saturday, September 6th for FREE*.

WHY: KOA Rewards Appreciation Weekend is designed exclusively for KOA Rewards holders to say thanks for your loyalty and for trusting your camping memories to us. On this late-summer weekend, we gather to celebrate friends, family and fun in the great outdoors we all adore.

* Only at participating KOA locations. Applies to one site per a KOA Rewards account, for two consecutive nights at the same KOA. Sites may be limited. KOA Rewards discount does apply but not valid with other discounts.

Book This Hot Deal

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Local Area

Shawnee National Forest

Spanning 289,000 acres, Shawnee National Forest is nestled in Southern Illinois between the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. It features strikingly beautiful oak-hickory forests, flourishing wetlands, lush canyons, razorback ridges and unique geological features. For recreationalists, there are miles of hiking, bicycling and equestrian trails, kayaking, canoeing, established camping, and dispersed camping opportunities. A rare convergence of six natural ecological regions results in a diversity of plant and animal species. With nearly 1 million people visiting annually, the forest serves as a retreat to Americans living in urban areas; more than 30 U.S. cities are within a six-hour drive.

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Lake of Egypt

Located just six miles south of Marion, Illinois, the Lake of Egypt is a secluded expanse of water, with 93 miles of wooded bays and inlets; one of Southern Illinois's hidden treasures.  Illinois locals love the lake.  Some of them have been coming here for lazy summer vacations all their lives. Others call the Lake of Egypt home. All of them love the serenity and the long summer days fishing, boating, leaping off the dock, and grilling on the deck of their cabin as the sun goes down.

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Tunnel Hill State Trail

At one time, the rumble of freight cars reverberated through the narrow tunnel. Wooden trestles, with their system of slanted supports and horizontal cross pieces, spanned numerous bluffs and creeks. Passengers in Pullman cars clocked the miles with these and other landmarks as they traveled one of southern Illinois' most scenic routes.Tunnel Hill State Trail stretches for 45 miles from Harrisburg to Karnak. The trail continues on a trails spur for 2.5 miles from Karnak to Cache River State Natural Area - Henry Barkhausen Wetlands Center on the old Chicago and Eastern Illinois railroad bed.

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Shawnee Hills Wine Trail

Get ready for a grape-tastic adventure on the Shawnee Wine Trail in Illinois! It's like a treasure hunt for wine lovers, linking together super cute boutique wineries. Each spot has its own special vibe and yummy wines that show off what Southern Illinois' grapes can do. Sip on some delicious wines, chill out, and take in the gorgeous views – it's like a mini-vacation in every glass! Whether you're a wine expert or just like a nice glass, this trail is all about fun, tasty discoveries, and stunning scenery. So, grab your friends and get ready to raise a glass to good times on the Shawnee Wine Trail!

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