Trail of Tears State Forest Campground
Open for camping. Gravel roads are closed to vehicles from December 24 through the end of spring wild turkey hunting season (typically mid-May), during which all camping access is by foot only (Class D). Reservations available through ExploreMoreIL; walk-up camping via self-registration silent host system.
Extreme Heat Warning issued July 2 at 10:16AM CDT until July 3 at 8:00PM CDT by NWS Paducah KY
* WHAT...For the Extreme Heat Warning, dangerously hot conditions with peak afternoon heat index values up to around 110 degrees can be expected. For the Heat Advisory on Independence Day, peak afternoon heat index values up to around 105 degrees are anticipated. * WHERE...All of southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri. * WHEN...For the Extreme Heat Warning, until 8 PM CDT /9 PM EDT/ Friday. For the Heat Advisory, from 8 PM CDT /9 PM EDT/ Friday to 8 PM CDT /9 PM EDT/ Saturday. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during prolonged duration extreme heat and high humidity events. Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Overnight lows will only fall into the mid 70s, providing little relief during this prolonged, extended duration of dangerously high heat and humidity.
Heat Advisory issued July 2 at 10:16AM CDT until July 4 at 8:00PM CDT by NWS Paducah KY
* WHAT...For the Extreme Heat Warning, dangerously hot conditions with peak afternoon heat index values up to around 110 degrees can be expected. For the Heat Advisory on Independence Day, peak afternoon heat index values up to around 105 degrees are anticipated. * WHERE...All of southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri. * WHEN...For the Extreme Heat Warning, until 8 PM CDT /9 PM EDT/ Friday. For the Heat Advisory, from 8 PM CDT /9 PM EDT/ Friday to 8 PM CDT /9 PM EDT/ Saturday. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during prolonged duration extreme heat and high humidity events. Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Overnight lows will only fall into the mid 70s, providing little relief during this prolonged, extended duration of dangerously high heat and humidity.
About
Trail of Tears State Forest encompasses 5,114 acres of rugged Ozark Hills terrain in western Union County, five miles northwest of Jonesboro. Named for the Cherokee, Creek, and Chickasaw nations who were forced to overwinter nearby during the tragic 1838-39 removal to Oklahoma, the forest preserves both natural and historical significance. The Civilian Conservation Corps developed much of the infrastructure during the 1930s, including stone shelters that remain in use today. The forest offers both Class C and Class D camping. Class C sites provide tent camping with vehicle access, while Class D sites are primitive backpack camping with no vehicle access. Some locations feature log shelters with adjacent vault toilets. The terrain varies from narrow, rocky ridgetops to protected valleys with clear streams. Wildlife includes deer, foxes, and notably timber rattlesnakes and northern copperheads. Recreational opportunities include hiking trails, equestrian trails, fishing, hunting, and dog training areas. The 222-acre Ozark Hills Nature Preserve protects significant ecosystems, and the Union State Nursery produces up to 3 million seedlings annually. Most parking areas and roads use limestone rock surfaces rather than pavement.
Directions
Located 5 miles northwest of Jonesboro and 20 miles south of Murphysboro in Union County. Address: 3240 State Forest Road, Jonesboro, IL 62952.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $8 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 20ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (618) 833-4910 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
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