The Shawnee National Forest is a great place for camping, and there are many options for camping for free.
The Shawnee National Forest is located in Southern Illinois and covers over 280,000 acres of land. It was established in 1939 and has been managed by the United States Forest Service since then.
The forest consists of hardwood forests, prairies, lakes, and wetlands.
Camping in the Shawnee National Forest is a great way to experience the beauty of nature without spending a lot of money. There are numerous campsites available throughout the forest that offer free primitive camping or dispersed camping which means you can camp anywhere without having to pay any fees or reservations.
The forest has several designated areas that allow primitive or dispersed camping such as Little Grand Canyon, Little Black Slough Nature Preserve, Makanda Natural Area, Burden Falls Wilderness Area, Cedar Lake Recreation Area and many more. Primitive camping usually entails setting up a tent on public land away from any developed facilities such as bathrooms or electricity.
Camping Safety
It is important to keep safety in mind when camping in the Shawnee National Forest. Be sure to check with the local ranger station before you go to make sure that your intended campsite is not closed due to fire danger or other safety concerns. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions such as not leaving food out that may attract wildlife.
Things To Do
The Shawnee National Forest offers plenty of activities for visitors including hiking trails, hunting opportunities, fishing spots and scenic drives through the forest. There are also plenty of cultural attractions such as galleries, museums and historic sites located nearby.
Conclusion: Can You Camp For Free In The Shawnee National Forest?
Yes! You can camp for free in the Shawnee National Forest if you choose primitive or dispersed camping sites away from developed facilities.
It’s important to check with local ranger stations before going to make sure your intended campsite is open for use and take necessary precautions when it comes to safety. The Shawnee National Forest provides plenty of activities for visitors including hiking trails, fishing spots and cultural attractions nearby.
