Best Camping Near Johnston City, IL

Explore the best campgrounds near Johnston City, IL for an unforgettable outdoor adventure and camping experience.

7

Nearby Campgrounds

627

Nearby Camp Sites

4.6

Average Camper Rating

Best places to camp near Johnston City, Illinois

7 Campgrounds Within 100 Miles

Things to do near
Johnston City, Illinois

  • Devils Kitchen Lake - Nestled in the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, this 810-acre lake is perfect for fishing and boating. The surrounding forest offers a serene backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Cedar Lake - Located southwest of Carbondale, Cedar Lake spans 1,750 acres and is ideal for kayaking and fishing. The northern shoreline is managed by the City of Carbondale, while the southern part lies within Shawnee National Forest.

  • Dutchman Lake - Situated north of Vienna in Johnson County, this clear 118-acre lake provides a peaceful setting for paddling and enjoying nature's tranquility.

  • Little Grassy Lake - Also part of the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, this 1,000-acre lake features three boat ramps and a marina. It's an excellent spot for water activities amidst lush forested surroundings.

  • Arrowhead Lake - Located on Johnston City's east edge, Arrowhead Lake offers a picturesque setting with its forested perimeter. Enjoy camping by the lakeside or take advantage of its walking trails and improved boat ramp.

  • Rend Lake Marina - Just south of Benton, Rend Lake covers 19,000 acres offering ample opportunities for boating and water sports. The marina serves as a hub for family-friendly aquatic adventures.

  • Cave-In-Rock State Park - Perched atop bluffs overlooking the Ohio River in southern Illinois, this park features a historic cave carved from limestone rock over thousands of years—a must-see natural wonder!

Ways to camp near Johnston City, 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

Lake of Egypt offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying the serene natural surroundings.

The Paducah Wall to Wall Murals provide a vibrant display of local art and history.

Feather Hills Vineyard & Winery offers terroir-inspired wines along with dining at their restaurant Fork and Vine.

The Country Creations Antiques Hide-Away is a great spot to discover unique antiques.

The Spinach Can Collectibles/Popeye Museum in Chester offers memorabilia related to Popeye the Sailorman.

Mermet Springs Scuba Diving is one of the most popular dive facilities in the Midwest, offering exceptional water visibility.

Plan a trip to Johnston City, Illinois

Plan a trip to Johnston City, Illinois

Nestled in the heart of Southern Illinois, Johnston City offers a charming escape for camping enthusiasts. With its proximity to several KOA campgrounds, including Benton KOA Journey and Marion / Shawnee National Forest KOA Holiday, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and relaxation.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are ideal seasons to explore Johnston City. The weather is generally mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking or fishing. Summer brings warmer temperatures suitable for swimming in nearby lakes.

Weather Expectations: In spring, expect blooming flowers and occasional rain showers. Summers are warm with plenty of sunshine—ideal for water sports at Cedar Lake or Little Grassy Lake. Fall showcases vibrant foliage with cooler breezes, while winter can be chilly but serene.

Packing Essentials: Layered clothing is key due to variable weather conditions throughout the year. Don’t forget sturdy hiking boots for exploring trails in Shawnee National Forest and a swimsuit if you plan on enjoying the local lakes. A rain jacket might come in handy during spring showers.

Planning Tips:

  • Book Early: Campgrounds can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
  • Check Local Events: From farmers' markets to music festivals, there's always something happening.
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Devils Kitchen Lake offers stunning views and excellent fishing opportunities.
  • Safety First: Always check weather forecasts before heading out on hikes or water activities.

Johnston City’s blend of natural beauty and friendly community makes it an unforgettable destination for campers looking to connect with nature while enjoying modern amenities at nearby KOA campgrounds.

Family Eating Outside of Airstream
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Save money when camping near Johnston City, 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 Johnston City, Illinois, and enjoy the outdoors where camping is fun and for everyone, and s'mores are always on the menu.