Nestled within the breathtaking embrace of the Shawnee National Forest, High Knob Campground stands as a testament to the natural wonders of Illinois. Spanning a vast 50 acres of pristine wilderness, this remarkable campground beckons to adventurers seeking a slice of equestrian paradise.
Your Horseback Oasis
High Knob Campground is a haven for horse lovers. With 165 campsites thoughtfully designed to cater to both permanent and tourist campers, the campground offers a blend of rustic charm and modern convenience. Each site boasts the luxury of both water and electricity, ensuring that your stay is as comfortable as it is immersive. What's more, this haven for equine enthusiasts is open year-round, inviting you to explore the beauty of the Shawnee National Forest every season.
Trails to Adventure
High Knob Campground stands apart as the exclusive host of the River to River trail, which gracefully winds its way through the heart of the camp. Surrounded on three sides by the Shawnee National Forest, the campground offers the unique privilege of granting access to seven distinct trails leading deeper into the forest. This means that, from the heart of the camp, you're just a leisurely 5-minute horseback ride away from the awe-inspiring 100-foot tall rock bluffs that punctuate the landscape.
Explore High Knob
The High Knob area is a dream for trail riders, hikers, and hunters alike. A mere six-hour round trip ride on the River to River trail will lead you to the enchanting Garden of the Gods wilderness area. Here, you can savor a packed lunch amid the rustic charm of a picnic table before tying your horse to a nearby hitching post and venturing out on a nature trail that winds through the majestic Garden of the Gods bluffs.
Beyond the Trails
While your days may be filled with horseback adventures and nature's wonders, don't miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding region. Venture to the nearby river and embark on a free ferry ride to the charming Amish country. There, you can immerse yourself in a day of shopping at Yoder's, where daily creations of bread, baked goods, and crafts await.
For those with a taste for indulgence, local wineries and a chocolate candy factory nestled in Dixon Springs are just a short journey away. And no trip to the area would be complete without a visit to McKinney's, Southern Illinois' largest western supply store.
Tiny Home Retreats
High Knob Campground doesn't just offer campsites; it also boasts seven charming wood-built "tiny home" rental cabins. Complete with full kitchens and bathrooms, these cozy retreats provide the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a more refined camping experience.
Return to High Knob
High Knob Campground promises an unforgettable experience where the beauty of the Shawnee National Forest unfolds at your doorstep. Whether you're drawn by the call of the trails, the allure of the wilderness, or the serenity of a riverbank picnic, High Knob Campground invites you to savor every moment of your equine adventure. Here, nature's grandeur meets modern comfort, creating a haven you'll want to return to again and again.
High Knob Campground offers the following facilities and amenities:
- Horse trails
- Water and electricity
- Picnic tables
- Hitching posts
- Covered box stalls
- Portable pipe pens (by request)
- Arena
- Horse/mule washing stations
- Flush toilets
- Shower rooms
- Rental cabins
Truck and Trailer Camping
- CHECK-IN time 10 am - 8 pm
- CHECK-OUT time by 10 am
- All sites include water and electric hookups
- All camping fees are per person
- Deposit is $10 per person
- All sites capable of parking 50ft+ trucks and trailers
- No refunds on holiday weekends
Cost Details:
- Single Occupancy - $15 (one person, per rig, per night)
- Double Occupancy - $10 (per person, per rig, per night, 1 site)
- Additional person age 16 - adult - $10 (per person, per night)
- Day riding - $2 per person
- CABIN - $60
- 10 x 10 covered box stall - $5
- 12 x 12 portable pipe gate pen - $5
Notes:
- per stall/pen, per animal, per night
- portable pens will be set up at your site
- only one animal per stall/pen
- limited number available per camping area
- first come first serve basis
- all stalls/pens MUST be stripped upon departure
- neglecting to clean a stall/pen will result in a $20 cleaning fee each
If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:
High Knob Campground does require reservations for overnight accommodations. Please visit their page here on Top Horse Trails - High Knob Campground for more information