Hayes Canyon Campground

For Illinoisans eager to explore the unparalleled beauty of the Shawnee National Forest, particularly those with a passion for horseback riding, Hayes Canyon Campground in Eddyville, IL, is the ultimate destination. This "mom and pop campground" is not just a place to stay; it's a vibrant community and a meticulously maintained base camp offering exceptional access to some of the most stunning landscapes in Southern Illinois. Known for its incredibly kind and helpful staff, this campground truly embodies Midwestern hospitality, making every visitor feel like family.

Hayes Canyon Campground has earned a stellar reputation, especially among the equestrian community, for its top-notch facilities catering to both humans and horses. However, its appeal extends far beyond horse riders, welcoming hikers, backpackers, hunters, and nature lovers of all sorts. With its strategic location near iconic natural wonders like Bell Smith Springs and the Garden of the Gods, it serves as the perfect launchpad for unforgettable outdoor adventures. The consistent positive feedback from guests highlights the campground's commitment to creating a friendly, comfortable, and truly memorable experience.

Whether you're looking for a weekend escape with your equine companions, a family vacation immersed in nature, or simply a friendly place to unwind and explore Illinois' "most beautiful part," Hayes Canyon Campground delivers. This article will provide a comprehensive look at what makes this campground a must-visit for locals, covering its location, extensive services, unique features, and how to plan your perfect trip.

Hayes Canyon Campground is ideally situated at 1 Hayes Canyon Camp Lane, P.O. Box 186, Eddyville, IL 62928, USA. This prime location places it deep within the heart of the Shawnee National Forest, a vast and diverse natural landscape in Southern Illinois. For residents across Illinois, particularly those in the central and southern regions, the drive to Eddyville is scenic and manageable, leading you directly into an outdoor enthusiast's paradise.

The campground's greatest locational advantage is its adjacency to the extensive trail system of the Shawnee National Forest. This means that world-class hiking and, critically for many visitors, horseback riding trails are immediately accessible from the campground property. Reviewers specifically praise the "well-marked and maintained" trails to the west, which are often on the campground's property, and acknowledge the vast network of trails available in the National Forest to the east. Iconic natural landmarks like Bell Smith Springs and the Garden of the Gods, celebrated for their unique rock formations and breathtaking views, are conveniently located nearby, making them easy day trips from the campground.

Despite its immersive natural setting, Hayes Canyon Campground is accessible via well-maintained roads. While it offers a sense of being "away from it all," the town of Eddyville provides basic services. Larger towns with more extensive amenities are within a reasonable driving distance, ensuring that campers have access to supplies if needed. This balance of secluded natural beauty and practical accessibility makes Hayes Canyon Campground an ideal base for exploring the rich outdoor offerings of Southern Illinois.

• RV Campsites: Hayes Canyon Campground offers 34 RV campsites suitable for day, weekend, week, or longer rentals.
• Full Hookups: Nearly all RV sites feature full hookups, including 30-amp electric hookups, city water, and sewer connections. Some sites also offer 50-amp service. (Note: Campers may need extra long hoses/cords as hookups can be up to 30 feet from the parking pad).
• Tent Camping: While primarily known for RV and equestrian camping, other campers, backpackers, and hikers are also welcome, implying space for tent camping.
• Cabin Rentals: Two cabins are available for rent, offering a more comfortable stay.
• Rental RVs: Three rental RVs are also available, providing options for those without their own RV.
• Horse/Mule Pens: Many campsites have pens (approx. 10x10 ft) for horses right at the campsite, offering convenience and peace of mind. Some sites also feature covered pens and stall mats.
• Horse Manure Pickup: Wheeled carts are provided at each campsite for manure, which the staff empties daily.
• Concrete Wash-Bay: A free concrete wash-bay is available for washing horses, along with several hydrants with hoses/sprayers on gravel roads.
• Clean Restrooms and Hot Showers: Consistently praised for their cleanliness.
• Coin-Operated Laundry Facilities: Available in the community room.
• Community Room: A designated indoor space for guests.
• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available at the campground office and throughout the campground.
• Camp Store: A small store selling basic toiletries, camping supplies (RV electrical adapters, lighter fluid), apparel, ice cream novelties, bagged ice, firewood, shavings, hay, and alfalfa.
• Firewood, Shavings, Hay, Alfalfa Delivery: These items can be purchased and delivered directly to your campsite.
• Picnic Table and Fire Ring: Every campsite includes these essential amenities.
• Email Communication: Highly responsive email communication for reservations and inquiries.
• Stock Trailer Rental: A 3-horse, bumper-pull stock trailer is available for rent to explore different parts of the Shawnee.

• Equestrian Focus: Premier destination for horse riders, with direct access to well-marked and maintained trails, both on campground property and in the adjacent Shawnee National Forest.
• Super Friendly & Helpful Staff/Owners: Repeatedly praised as "extremely kind and helpful" and "some of the nicest people."
• Proximity to Shawnee National Forest: Direct access to an extensive trail system for hiking, horseback riding, and exploration.
• Near Iconic Natural Attractions: Perfectly located by stunning sites like Bell Smith Springs, Garden of the Gods, Jackson Hole, Indian Kitchen, Salt Peter's Cave, Natural Bridge, and Owl Bluff.
• Variety of Accommodations: Offers RV sites (many full hookup), tent sites, cabins, and rental RVs to suit different preferences and budgets.
• Dedicated Horse Amenities: On-site horse pens, covered pens, stall mats, manure pickup service, and wash-bays enhance the experience for horse owners.
• Excellent On-site Amenities: Clean bathrooms, hot showers, laundry, community room, camp store, and reliable Wi-Fi.
• Detailed Maps: Provides very detailed, sturdy maps of the trails.
• Community Atmosphere: The friendly staff and overall vibe foster a welcoming and inclusive environment.
• Scenic Beauty: Located in what is consistently described as the "most beautiful part of IL."

While specific, widely advertised "promotions" in the traditional sense might vary, Hayes Canyon Campground focuses on providing excellent value and services that act as ongoing benefits for its guests. Given its popularity and often being "fully booked months in advance," particularly during peak seasons and holiday weekends, their primary "offer" is the high-quality experience and unique amenities they provide.

However, based on their reservation policies, here are some things to consider:

• Flexible Stay Lengths: They offer rentals for a day, weekend, week, or longer, providing flexibility for various trip durations.
• Gift Certificates: You can purchase gift certificates, which can be a thoughtful way to give the gift of camping at Hayes Canyon.
• Bulk Item Savings: Purchasing firewood in larger quantities (e.g., 50 pieces vs. 25 pieces) offers a slight per-piece saving. Similarly, buying hay and shavings on-site can be convenient.

It is always recommended to contact Hayes Canyon Campground directly via phone or email for the most up-to-date information on rates, availability, and any potential seasonal specials they might be running. Early booking is strongly advised, especially if you plan to visit during popular times or require specific accommodations like covered horse pens or cabins.

Address: 1 Hayes Canyon Camp Lane, P.O. Box 186, Eddyville, IL 62928, USA

Phone: (618) 672-4751

Mobile Phone: +1 618-672-4751

Email: info@hayescanyon.com (as found on some official Illinois tourism sites) or use the contact form on their website.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. They prefer payments via cash or check, as credit/debit cards are not accepted to keep costs low. A deposit (roughly 50% of the stay) is generally required to guarantee rentals.

For Illinois residents, Hayes Canyon Campground in Eddyville represents an exceptional and highly suitable choice for an outdoor adventure. Its prime location within the Shawnee National Forest means that some of the state's most beautiful and iconic natural attractions – including the beloved Bell Smith Springs and Garden of the Gods – are just a stone's throw away. This accessibility allows locals to maximize their time enjoying nature rather than spending it on long commutes.

What truly sets Hayes Canyon apart for locals is its unique blend of a welcoming, "mom and pop" atmosphere with comprehensive amenities, especially for equestrian enthusiasts. Whether you own horses or simply love the idea of being surrounded by them, the campground caters wonderfully to this niche, providing well-maintained on-site trails and direct access to the vast forest trail system. The consistently praised "kind and helpful" staff truly makes visitors feel at home, fostering a community spirit that encourages repeat visits.

Beyond the horse-friendly features, the campground offers comfortable RV sites with full hookups, clean modern restrooms, laundry facilities, and reliable Wi-Fi, ensuring a pleasant stay for all types of campers. For those who prefer more comfort, the availability of cabins and rental RVs provides flexible options. For Illinoisans seeking an authentic outdoor experience where natural beauty meets genuine hospitality, and where adventure on foot or horseback awaits right outside their camper door, Hayes Canyon Campground is undoubtedly a top choice. It’s a place to disconnect, explore, and create cherished memories in the heart of Southern Illinois' most breathtaking landscapes.