Open

Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations accepted. Drinking water is available at the campground.

Extreme Heat Warning issued July 1 at 1:40PM CDT until July 3 at 8:00PM CDT by NWS Paducah KY

1:40 PM — July 2nd, 7:00 AM

* WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with daily heat index values peaking up to around 110 degrees. * WHERE...All of southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri. * WHEN...Until 8 PM CDT /9 PM EDT/ Friday. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during prolonged extreme heat and high humidity events.

Shawnee National Forest

Lane reduction on bridge near IL Iron Furnace

Big Creek BridgeBig Creek Bridge, which carries County Road 12 over Big Creek, near the Iron Furnace recreation site in Hardin County, is reduced to a single central lane due to deteriorating bridge conditions. Motorists should slow down when approaching and traveling over the bridge. For your…

Shawnee National Forest

Trigg Tower temporarily closed

Trigg Tower on the Shawnee National Forest will temporarily close this month for necessary repairs. Weather permitting, contractors will begin work May 11, temporarily closing the tower and parking area to visitors. Repairs are expected to take approximately one month, no more than 90 days.Repairs…

About

Pharaoh Campground sits within the Garden of the Gods Recreation Area in the Shawnee National Forest, one of Illinois' most scenic natural destinations. The campground offers 12 primitive campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire grill. Vault toilets and drinking water are available on-site, making it a comfortable option for tent campers and small RVs seeking a backcountry feel without full amenities. The campground provides easy access to the Garden of the Gods Observation Trail, known for its spectacular sandstone rock formations with names like Camel Rock and Devil's Smokestack. Views of the Shawnee Hills can be enjoyed from both the campground and nearby picnic areas. The River to River Trail passes through the area, connecting Garden of the Gods to other Shawnee National Forest destinations. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis at $10 per night, with payment accepted by cash or check only. Each site accommodates up to 8 people and 2 vehicles. Pets are welcome but must remain on a leash. For those needing electric hookups, Pounds Hollow Recreation Area is located approximately 6 miles east.

Directions

From Harrisburg, take Highway 145 south 5 miles to Highway 34, then take 34 south for 10 miles. Turn east onto Karbers Ridge Road for 2.5 miles to Forest Road, turn north, and drive 1.5 miles to the recreation area entrance road.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station
Wifi No
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store No
Price $10

Vehicle

Max RV Length
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly
Pull Through Sites

Contact

Phone +1 (618) 253-7114

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile None

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