Hidden Springs State Forest Campground
Open year-round for camping. Possum Creek Campground operates first-come, first-served with permits issued by staff on patrol. Shady Grove Campground requires advance group reservations through ExploreMoreIL.
Extreme Heat Warning issued July 2 at 1:27PM CDT until July 3 at 7:00PM CDT by NWS Lincoln IL
* WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 105 to 110. * WHERE...Portions of central, east central, southeast, and west central Illinois. * WHEN...Until 7 PM CDT Friday. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events.
About
Hidden Springs State Forest encompasses approximately 1,200 acres near Clarksburg, about 10 miles southeast of Shelbyville in Shelby County, Illinois. The forest was named for its seven natural springs that historically provided drinking water. The terrain features rolling hills with mature oak-hickory forest and several fishing ponds. Possum Creek Campground is a Class C (primitive) facility where campers select their own site and forest staff issue permits during routine patrols. Each site has access to drinking water, vault toilets, pedestal stoves, fire blocks, and fire rings. A sanitary dump station is available. Ground fires are restricted to the provided fire rings only. Beyond camping, the forest offers hiking on spring-fed nature trails including paths to Rocky Spring and Quicksand Spring, fishing ponds, hunting in season, a 3D archery range, and picnicking areas.
Directions
From Interstate 57, take the Mattoon exit and head west on Route 16 through Mattoon, Gays, and Windsor. Two miles west of Windsor, turn left onto Route 32 South. Continue 4 miles through Strasburg, then proceed 2 more miles and turn right following brown Hidden Springs information signs. The office is 4 miles down this road.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $20 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 20ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| dnr.hiddensprings@illinois.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (217) 644-3091 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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