Trail of Tears Campground

About this site

Trail of Tears State Forest is situated in western Union County, five miles northwest of Jonesboro and 20 miles south of Murphysboro. Just over 5,000 acres are within the state forest. The state forest system in Illinois was established to set aside lands for the growing of timber needed in production of forest products, for watershed protection, and to provide outdoor recreation. Trail of Tears State Forest is a multiple-use site managed for timber, wildlife, ecosystem preservation, watershed protection and recreation. Both Class C (tent camping with vehicle access) and Class D (backpack) camping sites are available at Trail of Tears State Forest. Some locations have log shelters with adjacent privies. Group camping is available at a few sites. The forest's gravel roads are closed to vehicles from December 24 through the end of the spring wild turkey hunting season (generally the second week in May). All camping access is by foot only during that period (Class D). For information on group camping or special access concerns (during the winter-spring months), contact the site superintendent headquarters at (618-833-4910). Campsite reservations are available through the ExploreMoreIL™ website. Campers without a reservation may register upon arrival with the "silent host" self-registration system. Additional Info: The campground has 14 standard campsites with pad lengths ranging from 25 to 130 feet. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash. There are no water or electric hookups.

Amenities & access

Contact

• 618-833-4910
• https://recreation.exploremoreil.com/IllinoisWeb/Default.aspx#!park/63

Location

37.485173, -89.358574