Best Camping Near Carbondale, IL

Explore Carbondale, IL: Family-friendly campgrounds, outdoor adventures, and scenic beauty await your perfect camping trip.

8

Nearby Campgrounds

726

Nearby Camp Sites

4.5

Average Camper Rating

Best places to camp near Carbondale, Illinois

8 Campgrounds Within 100 Miles

Things to do near
Carbondale, Illinois

  • Devils Kitchen Lake - Nestled in the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, this 810-acre lake is perfect for fishing, boating, and enjoying the serene forested surroundings.

  • Cedar Lake - Located just five miles southwest of Carbondale, this 1750-acre lake offers boat access and is surrounded by the beautiful Shawnee National Forest.

  • Dutchman Lake - A clear, 118-acre lake located north of Vienna. It features a gravel access road and boat ramp, making it ideal for a peaceful day on the water.

  • Little Grassy Lake - This deep, clear 1000-acre lake in Williamson County is great for fishing and boating. It's managed by both state and federal agencies to ensure a pristine environment.

  • Arrowhead Lake - Situated on the east edge of Johnston City, this 30-acre impoundment offers camping facilities, an improved boat ramp, and a walking trail around its perimeter.

  • Dongola City Reservoir - A tranquil spot west of Dongola with a single-lane boat ramp. It's perfect for those looking to escape into nature without any frills or crowds.

  • Giant City Stables - Experience horseback riding through scenic trails in Giant City State Park. The stables offer guided rides suitable for all skill levels amidst stunning natural beauty.

Ways to camp near Carbondale, Illinois

RV Camping
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RV Camping

RV camping at KOA campgrounds offers clean, level sites with full hookups, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly amenities. Enjoy the comforts of home while exploring over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Cabin Camping
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Cabin Camping

Cabin camping at KOA offers a cozy outdoor experience with options like rustic Camping Cabins and fully-equipped Deluxe Cabins. Enjoy nature with amenities such as beds, electricity, and private bathrooms.

Tent Camping
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Tent Camping

Tent camping offers a blend of traditional camping with modern amenities. Enjoy level sites, hot showers, clean restrooms, and options like electric hookups and patios for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Extended Stays Camping
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Extended Stay

KOA campgrounds offer extended stay options that allow extended stay campers to enjoy amenities like upgraded Wi-Fi and on-site dining, whether you’re a snowbird, or just want to enjoy the outdoors longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail is a popular destination for wine enthusiasts near Carbondale, Illinois.

The Crab Orchard Golf Club offers golfing opportunities near Carbondale, Illinois.

The Greenway Trail provides excellent opportunities for hiking and biking in the Carbondale area.

You can visit the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial to learn more about his legacy near Carbondale.

Dutchman Lake is known for its scenic beauty and recreational activities such as fishing and boating.

The Cache River Wetlands offer unique wetland experiences with diverse flora and fauna around Carbondale.

Dixon Springs State Park features stunning landscapes perfect for hiking enthusiasts visiting the area.

Plan a trip to Carbondale, Illinois

Plan a trip to Carbondale, Illinois

Planning a camping trip to Carbondale, IL is an adventure waiting to happen! Nestled in the heart of Southern Illinois, Carbondale offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. With several KOA campgrounds nearby, including Benton KOA Journey, Marion / Shawnee National Forest KOA Holiday, and Paducah / I-24 / Kentucky Lake KOA Journey, you’ll have plenty of options for a comfortable stay.

Best Time to Visit

Carbondale is delightful year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and mild temperatures—ideal for hiking and exploring. Summer is perfect for water activities at nearby lakes. Fall offers stunning foliage in the Shawnee National Forest. Winter can be chilly but provides serene landscapes.

Weather Expectations

  • Spring: Mild with occasional rain showers.
  • Summer: Warm with sunny days; great for swimming and boating.
  • Fall: Cool with vibrant autumn colors.
  • Winter: Cold but peaceful; ideal for cozy cabin stays.

What to Pack

  1. Clothing:
    • Layered outfits (temperatures can vary)
    • Comfortable hiking shoes
    • Swimwear (for summer visits)
  2. Camping Gear:
    • Tent or RV essentials
    • Cooking supplies (grill or portable stove)
  3. Outdoor Essentials:
    • Bug spray and sunscreen
    • Reusable water bottles

Important Considerations

  1. Reservations: Book your campsite early, especially during peak seasons like summer and fall.
  2. Local Attractions: Don’t miss out on visiting Devil’s Kitchen Lake or Cedar Lake for fishing and boating adventures.
  3. Safety First: Always check weather forecasts before heading out on hikes or water activities.

Whether you're casting a line at Little Grassy Lake or exploring the trails around Giant City State Park, Carbondale has something special in store for every outdoor enthusiast! So pack your bags, gather your gear, and get ready to create unforgettable memories at one of the nearby KOA campgrounds!

Family Eating Outside of Airstream
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Save money when camping near Carbondale, Illinois with KOA Rewards

If you like camping, then you will love being a part of the Kampgrounds of America KOA Rewards Program. Designed with campers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind, KOA Rewards is both a discount and rewards program. From earning rewards while camping to receiving discounts at select merchants, our loyalty program is designed to help you save money in a few different ways.

Reserve Your Stay Today!

Unwind at a campground near Carbondale, Illinois, and enjoy the outdoors where camping is fun and for everyone, and s'mores are always on the menu.