Camp Cadiz

For Illinoisans who cherish the raw, unadulterated beauty of nature and seek a camping experience that prioritizes peace and quiet over extensive amenities, Camp Cadiz in Elizabethtown, IL, offers an ideal retreat. Nestled within the expansive and breathtaking Shawnee National Forest, this campground provides a genuine opportunity to disconnect from the everyday hustle and immerse yourself in the serene sounds and sights of the wilderness. It's a place where the stars shine brighter, and the feeling of being truly "away from it all" is palpable.

Camp Cadiz is known for its tranquil environment and its appeal to those who prefer a more rustic approach to camping. While it doesn't offer full hookups, it provides essential facilities like clean restrooms and access to water, making it a comfortable option for both tent campers and self-contained RVs. Its quiet atmosphere is a recurring highlight, ensuring restful nights and peaceful days. The campground also serves as a popular base for outdoor activities, particularly for hunters during certain seasons, which speaks to its deep integration with the surrounding natural landscape. If you're an Illinois local looking for a simple, quiet, and deeply immersive outdoor adventure in Southern Illinois, Camp Cadiz invites you to experience its unique charm.

Camp Cadiz is situated on Cadiz Rd, Elizabethtown, IL 62931, USA, placing it directly within the heart of the magnificent Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois. This location is a significant asset for Illinois locals, offering an authentic wilderness experience while remaining accessible for a true escape. Elizabethtown, a small community in Hardin County, serves as a gateway to numerous natural attractions in the region.

The campground's appeal lies in its secluded feel, providing a "super quiet" environment that makes you feel genuinely immersed in nature. Despite this remote ambiance, it's connected enough to allow for practical travel. For those seeking to explore the renowned natural wonders of the Shawnee National Forest, Camp Cadiz serves as an excellent basecamp. Iconic sites like Garden of the Gods, Pounds Hollow Recreation Area, and Cave-in-Rock State Park are all within a reasonable driving distance, offering opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, photography, and historical exploration. While specific driving times to these attractions are not provided in the reviews, the general location implies that these popular destinations are accessible for day trips.

For essential supplies, the small towns surrounding the Shawnee National Forest, including Elizabethtown itself, offer gas stations and basic grocery stores. Campers are advised to plan accordingly, especially regarding water for RVs, as direct hose hookups are not available. The main access to the campground is typically via forest roads, which are generally well-maintained. This blend of remote tranquility and strategic proximity to both natural landmarks and basic amenities makes Camp Cadiz an ideal spot for Illinoisans who desire a peaceful, rustic camping adventure deep within the state's most beautiful forest land.

• Campsites with Basic Utilities: While not full hookups, the campground provides access to water (though not directly hookable to a hose, requiring jugs for RVs) and is implied to have designated camping spots, potentially with some electric (though the review stated "no services" for direct hookups, it's possible this refers to water/sewer, and some minimal electric might be available, but this needs confirmation by calling).

• Clean Bathrooms: A significant service highlight is the presence of "clean bathrooms," providing essential and well-maintained facilities for campers.

• Water On-Site: Water is available on-site, crucial for cooking, cleaning, and personal use, even if it requires jugs for RVs.

• Quiet Environment: The campground consistently offers a "super quiet" and "quiet at night" atmosphere, which is a key service for those seeking relaxation and peace.

• Hunter-Friendly Environment: The observation that the campground "was taken over by hunters" during certain times indicates it is well-suited and perhaps informally caters to hunters, offering a convenient and understanding basecamp for their activities.

• Super Quiet and Peaceful: This is a primary highlight, emphasized by multiple reviewers. Camp Cadiz offers an exceptionally tranquil environment, perfect for those seeking to escape noise and truly relax in nature.

• Secluded Forest Setting: The campground provides a true "back-to-nature" feel, tucked away in the forest, offering a sense of remoteness and immersion in the natural surroundings.

• Clean Restroom Facilities: The presence of "clean bathrooms" is a significant advantage for a rustic campground, enhancing comfort and convenience for campers.

• Water On-Site (Jug Access): While not full hookups, the availability of water on-site, even if it requires carrying in jugs for RVs, is a valuable feature for extended stays.

• Spaciousness and Low Crowds: The comment "Only 1 other person there" suggests that the campground often has low occupancy, allowing for a more private and uncrowded camping experience.

• Suitable for Hunters: The observation that hunters frequently use the campground points to its suitability and appeal to that specific outdoor demographic, suggesting a welcoming environment for hunting season.

• Rustic Camping Experience: Ideal for those who prefer a more primitive or "boondocking" style of camping, where self-sufficiency is embraced and the focus is on natural surroundings rather than extensive amenities.

• Proximity to Shawnee National Forest Attractions: While not explicitly detailed, its location within the Shawnee National Forest implies access to numerous hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and other outdoor recreational opportunities nearby.

As a generally rustic and likely publicly managed or simply maintained campground within the Shawnee National Forest, Camp Cadiz typically operates without specific "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. Its value proposition lies in its quiet, natural setting and basic amenities. However, for Illinois locals considering a stay, the following points can be considered as inherent advantages or things to note regarding pricing and availability:

• Affordable Rates: Rustic campgrounds, especially those managed by state or national forest services (or simple, private operations), usually offer very affordable overnight rates compared to commercial campgrounds with extensive amenities. This inherent affordability is a continuous "special offer" for budget-conscious campers.

• Year-Round Accessibility: While peak seasons might see more visitors, many forest campgrounds are accessible year-round, allowing for off-season camping when rates might be lower or crowds even thinner. This flexibility can be a promotion in itself for those with flexible schedules.

• Hunter-Friendly Season: The mention of the campground being "taken over by hunters" during certain periods indicates a peak usage time. While not a promotion, this suggests a reliable environment for hunters, who might find its specific suitability a "feature" they seek, particularly in terms of community and shared interests during those times.

• Quiet During Off-Peak: The review noting "only 1 other person there" highlights that outside of specific popular times (like hunting season), the campground can be extremely quiet and uncrowded. This "promotion" of solitude and peace is valuable for many campers.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on any fees, rules, or specific availability, it is always best to directly contact Camp Cadiz or consult the relevant forest service resources if it is a public campground. The phone number provided is the most reliable way to get current details.

To learn more about Camp Cadiz, inquire about current conditions, or understand any specific rules or fees, please use the following contact details:

• Address: Cadiz Rd, Elizabethtown, IL 62931, USA

• Phone: (618) 658-2111

• Mobile Phone: +1 618-658-2111

Given the rustic nature of the campground and the likelihood of limited on-site personnel, calling ahead for detailed information regarding water access for RVs (e.g., specific spigot types) and current conditions is highly recommended to ensure a smooth and enjoyable camping experience.

For Illinois locals, particularly those in search of a no-frills, deeply immersive, and exceptionally peaceful outdoor experience, Camp Cadiz in Elizabethtown is an outstanding choice. Its suitability stems from its genuine rustic charm and its prime location within the vast and beautiful Shawnee National Forest.

Firstly, the unparalleled quietude of Camp Cadiz is a major draw. In a world increasingly filled with noise and distractions, finding a campground that is "super quiet" and where nights are truly peaceful is a rare commodity. This allows Illinois residents to fully disconnect, relax, and appreciate the natural sounds of the forest, providing a much-needed mental reset. For those who value solitude and a genuine escape from urban or suburban environments, Camp Cadiz offers that tranquility in spades.

Secondly, its location within the Shawnee National Forest makes it an ideal base for countless outdoor activities. Whether you're interested in hiking scenic trails, exploring the unique geological formations of Southern Illinois, or engaging in seasonal activities like hunting, Camp Cadiz puts you right in the heart of the action. The proximity to major natural attractions, though not explicitly detailed in time, implies easy access to the region's renowned beauty, allowing locals to maximize their time enjoying the outdoors rather than traveling.

Finally, the basic yet functional amenities like clean bathrooms and on-site water (even if requiring jugs for RVs) provide sufficient comfort for a rustic camping experience without detracting from the natural setting. This makes it particularly suitable for self-sufficient campers or those who prefer a more traditional tent camping approach. The apparent lack of extensive commercial services ensures that the focus remains on nature and quiet enjoyment. For Illinois locals who prioritize a quiet, secluded, and authentic connection with the wilderness, Camp Cadiz offers an affordable and deeply satisfying camping adventure that truly embodies the spirit of Southern Illinois' great outdoors.