Pine Ridge Campground

For Illinois residents seeking an authentic and affordable outdoor escape, Pine Ridge Campground in Junction, IL, presents an excellent choice. Nestled within the expansive and breathtaking Shawnee National Forest, this well-maintained campground offers a serene setting perfect for unwinding, exploring, and reconnecting with nature. It’s an ideal destination for those who appreciate a rustic yet clean camping experience, with the added benefit of being incredibly close to the stunning Pounds Hollow Lake.

Pine Ridge Campground caters to a variety of campers, from those who prefer the simplicity of tent camping to those with smaller RVs. What truly sets it apart is its commitment to providing a clean, accessible, and budget-friendly option for experiencing the natural beauty of Southern Illinois. With amenities designed to enhance your stay without detracting from the natural environment, Pine Ridge allows you to focus on the joys of outdoor living – whether that's gathering around a campfire, casting a line in a nearby lake, or simply enjoying the peaceful sounds of the forest. If you’re looking for a hassle-free, first-come, first-served camping spot that offers great value and immediate access to recreational opportunities, Pine Ridge Campground should undoubtedly be on your radar.

Pine Ridge Campground is conveniently located in Junction, IL 62954, USA, positioning it deep within the scenic Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois. This prime location places campers in the heart of a vast natural playground, offering a perfect blend of seclusion and accessibility to key recreational areas.

The most significant aspect of its location is its extremely close proximity to Pounds Hollow Lake. The campground is situated just a quarter of a mile down the road from this beautiful lake, making it incredibly easy for campers to access for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. To reach Pine Ridge Campground from Junction, you would typically head south or east on local roads that lead into the Shawnee National Forest, following signs towards Pounds Hollow Lake. While specific turns may vary depending on your starting point, the route often involves well-maintained forest roads. It is generally accessible by standard vehicles, though campers should always exercise caution on unpaved sections, especially after heavy rains.

The surrounding area is characterized by rolling hills, dense forest, and unique geological features that are characteristic of the Shawnee National Forest. This ensures that the journey to the campground is as scenic as the destination itself, providing a sense of anticipation for the natural beauty that awaits. The proximity to a major body of water like Pounds Hollow Lake significantly enhances the campground's appeal, offering diverse recreational activities right at your fingertips.

• Campsites: Pine Ridge Campground provides a total of 38 campsites. These are divided into 13 electric sites and 25 non-electric (primitive) sites, offering options for different camping preferences. Sites are described as having pea gravel and being mostly level, suitable for tents and small RVs (up to 25-30 ft).

• Electricity: The 13 electric sites offer 20, 30, and 50 amp service, accommodating a range of RVs and campers that require power hookups.

• Water Availability: Potable water is available at a central check-in station or designated spigots within the campground, allowing campers to fill up their water containers.

• Fire Pits: Each campsite is equipped with a fire pit, perfect for campfires, outdoor cooking, and warmth.

• Picnic Tables: Every site includes a picnic table, providing a convenient and dedicated area for meals and outdoor activities.

• Vault Toilets: The campground features vault toilets, which are reported by users to be very clean and well-maintained. These are basic, non-flushing facilities designed for rustic camping.

• No Dump Station: It is important to note that the campground does not have a dump station for RV waste. Campers with RVs will need to plan accordingly for waste disposal outside of the campground.

• First-Come, First-Served: Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not accepted. This allows for spontaneous trips but requires early arrival during peak seasons.

• Regular Ranger Patrols: The campground is regularly visited by rangers, ensuring cleanliness, safety, and adherence to rules, contributing to a well-managed environment.

• Proximity to Pounds Hollow Lake: One of the most significant highlights is the campground's close proximity to Pounds Hollow Lake, located just a quarter-mile down the road. This allows campers easy access for swimming, fishing, and enjoying the lake's serene beauty.

• Affordable Camping: With a nightly rate of just $10, Pine Ridge Campground offers an incredibly budget-friendly camping option, making it accessible for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.

• Variety of Sites: The availability of both 13 electric sites (with 20/30/50 amp service) and 25 non-electric sites caters to diverse camping needs, from those requiring power for small RVs to traditional tent campers seeking a more rustic experience.

• Well-Maintained and Clean: Customer reviews consistently highlight the cleanliness of the campground and the vault toilets. The presence of rangers who frequently patrol also contributes to the overall well-maintained environment.

• Spacious and Private Sites: While not overly numerous, the campsites are described as being "spaced well enough apart," offering a good sense of privacy and seclusion, especially during weekdays or off-peak seasons.

• Basic Amenities Provided: Each site comes with a fire pit and a picnic table, providing essential amenities for comfortable camping, including cooking and outdoor dining.

• First-Come, First-Served Flexibility: The no-reservation policy allows for spontaneous camping trips, offering flexibility for locals to head out whenever the mood strikes, though it's wise to arrive early during busy periods.

• Scenic Shawnee National Forest Setting: The campground is enveloped by the beautiful scenery of the Shawnee National Forest, offering amazing views, abundant trees, and a peaceful natural atmosphere perfect for relaxation and photography.

Pine Ridge Campground operates as a public recreation area managed by the US Forest Service. As such, it maintains a straightforward and consistent fee structure rather than offering traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. The current nightly rate for a campsite at Pine Ridge Campground is a highly affordable $10. This applies to both the electric and non-electric sites, providing excellent value regardless of your preference.

For eligible individuals, the campground typically honors federal passes such as the America the Beautiful Senior Pass or Access Pass, which may provide a 50% discount on the camping fee, reducing it to $5 per night. It is always advisable to present your pass upon arrival, as these discounts are subject to verification. Since the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, there are no booking fees or reservation charges. Campers simply pay the daily rate via an honor system, often at a self-pay station upon arrival. Any updates to pricing or applicable federal pass discounts would be communicated by the US Forest Service, and it’s always a good practice to verify the most current information before your visit by contacting the local ranger district.

For inquiries and information regarding Pine Ridge Campground and the surrounding Shawnee National Forest area, you can use the following contact details. While a direct campground office might not always be staffed, these numbers will connect you to the managing Forest Service office that oversees the area.

Address: Junction, IL 62954, USA

Phone: (618) 253-7114

Mobile Phone: +1 618-253-7114

These contact numbers likely direct you to the Forest Service office that manages the area, which can provide general information about the campground, current conditions, and nearby recreational opportunities. Since Pine Ridge Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations, direct inquiries about site availability on a specific date might not be possible over the phone, especially during peak seasons. However, they can assist with questions about amenities, rules, and road conditions.

For Illinois residents, Pine Ridge Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing outdoor destination for numerous compelling reasons. Its strategic location within the Shawnee National Forest, coupled with its direct proximity to the beautiful Pounds Hollow Lake, makes it an accessible and highly rewarding choice for a quick weekend getaway or a longer, more immersive nature experience.

The blend of affordability and well-maintained facilities is a major draw. At just $10 a night, Pine Ridge offers incredible value, allowing locals to enjoy frequent camping trips without a significant financial outlay. The presence of both electric and non-electric sites caters to diverse preferences, accommodating everything from small RVs needing power to traditional tent campers seeking a simpler experience. This flexibility ensures that a wide range of local outdoor enthusiasts can find a suitable spot.

Customer reviews consistently highlight the cleanliness of the campground and its vault toilets, a crucial factor for a comfortable camping experience. The consistent presence of rangers also ensures a safe and orderly environment. Furthermore, the "first-come, first-served" policy, while sometimes requiring an early arrival during peak times, provides spontaneity, allowing locals to decide on a last-minute trip when the weather is perfect or the mood strikes.

Perhaps most importantly, Pine Ridge Campground offers a genuine connection to Illinois's natural heritage. The "amazing scenery" and the "beautiful spot" described by reviewers underscore the immersive natural beauty that surrounds the campground. With Pounds Hollow Lake literally just down the road, opportunities for swimming, fishing, and simply enjoying the tranquil waters are abundant. For Illinoisans seeking a peaceful, clean, and budget-friendly camping destination that allows them to truly unwind and appreciate the state's outdoor treasures, Pine Ridge Campground is not just suitable – it's an ideal choice. It embodies the essence of accessible, enjoyable outdoor adventure right in their own backyard.