TK Ranch Campground

For those of us in Illinois who seek genuine outdoor adventure, coupled with the peace and quiet that only our rural landscapes can offer, TK Ranch Campground in Golconda is a destination that truly stands out. Nestled in the heart of the magnificent Shawnee National Forest, this campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a gateway to some of Southern Illinois’s most spectacular natural beauty and a haven for both hikers and equestrian enthusiasts.

Here in Illinois, we appreciate places that offer a true escape, where the sounds of the city fade away, replaced by the calls of coyotes and owls under a vast, star-studded sky. TK Ranch Campground delivers this authentic experience, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation and exploration. It’s a place where the air is fresh, the trails are inviting, and the hospitality is as warm as a campfire on a cool evening.

What makes TK Ranch particularly appealing to us locals is its unique blend of rustic charm and essential amenities, all supported by an incredibly accommodating owner. Whether you’re looking to tackle a challenging segment of the River to River Trail, embark on a horseback riding adventure, or simply find a peaceful spot to unwind and reconnect with nature, TK Ranch Campground offers the perfect setting. It’s a testament to the beauty and welcoming spirit of rural Illinois, making it a highly recommended spot for our community to explore and enjoy.

TK Ranch Campground is conveniently situated at 584 Lusk Rd, Golconda, IL 62938, USA. This address places it squarely within the breathtaking Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois, a region renowned for its diverse landscapes, extensive trail systems, and abundant wildlife. For residents across Illinois, Golconda offers a fantastic destination that, while feeling wonderfully secluded, is still accessible.

The true highlight of its location is its direct proximity to a vast network of trails, including being in the "heart of a large trail system called The One Horse Gap Area." More importantly, TK Ranch borders the Shawnee National Forest on all four sides, allowing campers to "ride right out of camp into the forest." This direct access to miles upon miles of well-marked trails, including the famous River to River Trail, is an unparalleled advantage for hikers and especially for horseback riders. Imagine stepping out of your campsite and immediately being able to embark on an adventure into the heart of the Shawnee – it's an experience that truly defines a trip to TK Ranch.

While the campground is nestled in a rural setting, offering that desired "rural nightscape" and a sense of being "way out there" as some reviews suggest, it is still reachable. The journey to Golconda and then onto Lusk Road offers scenic views of Illinois's countryside, preparing you for the tranquility that awaits. The location is ideal for those looking to disconnect from urban life and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of our state, with abundant opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and wildlife viewing right at their doorstep.

TK Ranch Campground focuses on providing essential services that enhance the outdoor experience, particularly for RV and equestrian campers.

• Electric Hookups: All 40 sites are equipped with 30-amp electric hookups, with some also offering picnic tables and/or fire rings. This is a crucial amenity for RV campers, allowing for comfortable stays.

• Water Availability (Delivery Service): While water hookups are not directly at each site, the owner provides a unique and highly praised service of delivering water to campers and their horses throughout the day. This ensures a constant supply of water, overcoming the lack of direct site hookups.

• Dump Station: A dump station is available for RV waste disposal, a necessary convenience for those on extended trips.

• Horse Accommodations: The campground is exceptionally horse-friendly, offering:

  • Space available at campsites for 2-4 pens for horses or mules.

  • Prohibition against tying horses to trees or utility poles to protect the environment and animals.

  • Requirement for Negative Coggin's test for all horses/mules.

  • Designated areas for cleaning campsite stalls, pens, and picket areas before departure.

• Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are welcome at the campground, with the requirement that they are kept on a leash or tied at all times, and owners must clean up pet waste and control noise. Rabies vaccination is also required.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Available by request, these add to the traditional camping experience, perfect for outdoor meals and campfires.

• Trash Disposal: Campers are requested to put all trash in the designated dumpster.

TK Ranch Campground shines with several distinctive features and highlights that make it a truly special place for Illinois campers.

• Direct Shawnee National Forest Access: A paramount highlight is the campground's immediate border with the Shawnee National Forest on all four sides. This means guests can literally "ride right out of camp into the forest" to explore miles of magnificent, well-marked trails, including the famed River to River Trail.

• Equestrian Focus: TK Ranch is particularly suited for horse riders, with facilities and policies geared towards accommodating horses. The ability to bring your own horses and have dedicated space for pens at your campsite is a huge draw for the equestrian community in Illinois.

• Friendly and Accommodating Owner: Customer reviews consistently praise the owner, Kenny, for being "super friendly" and "very accommodating." This personal touch ensures that guests feel welcome and their needs are met, including the unique service of water delivery.

• Spectacular Rural Nightscape: For stargazers and nature lovers, the rural location provides an incredible opportunity to witness a less cloudy, unhindered night sky, perfect for observing stars and listening to the sounds of local wildlife like coyotes and owls.

• Hiking Haven: Beyond horseback riding, the campground serves as an excellent base for hikers. Its location "for cutting in half the One Horse Gap wilderness segment along the River to River Trail" makes it an ideal stop for those embarking on intense but beautiful hikes.

• Family-Oriented Atmosphere: Described as a "family-oriented camping destination," TK Ranch aims to provide a welcoming atmosphere for all types of campers, fostering a community spirit among visitors.

TK Ranch Campground offers a clear and straightforward pricing structure designed to accommodate various lengths of stay, providing value for both short-term and extended visits.

• Nightly Rate: A standard nightly rate of $25 per night is in effect as of March 21, 2022.

• Holiday Weekend Policy: For holiday weekends (Easter, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Columbus Day, and Veteran's Day), a 3-night minimum stay is required, and 100% of the payment is due 30 days in advance, which is non-refundable.

• Yearly Rentals: A significant offer is the yearly rental rate of $900.00 for nine months (March – November). This can be paid as a lump sum or in monthly installments of $100.00 for nine months, providing a very economical option for long-term campers.

• Off-Season Options (December-February): RVs can be left on site during the off-season, included with yearly rent if unplugged from electricity. There's an option to leave electricity on (for a refrigerator only) for $60 for the off-season. For active use of a campsite in the off-season, the fee is $12 nightly.

• Hunters Specials: Special rates are available for hunters during hunting seasons. A nightly rate of $35 applies. For November hunters wanting to leave their camper for December hunting, a fee of $75 (no electricity) or $95 (with refrigerator running) applies.

Payments are accepted via cash or checks only; credit or debit cards are not accepted. It's always best to contact Kenny directly for reservations and to confirm any current pricing or specific needs.

To book your stay or inquire further about TK Ranch Campground, locals in Illinois can easily reach out using the following details:

Address: 584 Lusk Rd, Golconda, IL 62938, USA

Phone: (618) 922-3925

Mobile Phone: +1 618-922-3925

The owners, Kenny and Terri Steele, encourage callers to leave a message due to occasional cell reception issues in the area. Email inquiries can also be sent to tkranchcampground@gmail.com. When making a reservation, it’s helpful to provide your dates, number of horses per site, approximate trailer length, and contact phone number.

For us Illinoisans, TK Ranch Campground isn't just another camping spot; it's a quintessential Southern Illinois experience that caters to our deep appreciation for nature, outdoor recreation, and genuine hospitality. Its unique combination of features makes it exceptionally suitable for locals seeking an authentic and memorable escape.

Firstly, its unparalleled location bordering the Shawnee National Forest is a massive draw. We understand the value of direct, immediate access to miles of trails for hiking and, especially, for horseback riding. For equestrian enthusiasts across Illinois, the ability to simply ride out of camp into the forest without having to trailer their horses elsewhere is a game-changer. Hikers, too, will appreciate the convenient access to segments of the iconic River to River Trail, making it easy to embark on beautiful, challenging treks. This proximity to such a vast natural playground allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the Shawnee's beauty.

The "spectacular rural nightscape," as noted by visitors, is another significant appeal. In our increasingly light-polluted world, the chance to witness a sky full of stars and listen to the natural symphony of coyotes and owls is a profound experience that many city dwellers and even suburbanites in Illinois crave. TK Ranch offers that serene disconnect, providing a true sense of escape and connection to the wild.

Furthermore, the genuine hospitality of the owner, Kenny, often referred to as "super friendly" and "very accommodating," resonates strongly with the Illinois spirit of neighborliness. His willingness to go the extra mile, like personally delivering water to sites, transforms a simple camping trip into a truly welcoming and comfortable stay. This personal touch fosters a sense of community among campers, making it feel less like a commercial enterprise and more like visiting a friendly local.

The provision of essential amenities, such as 30-amp electric hookups and a dump station, ensures that RV campers can enjoy the rustic setting without sacrificing necessary comforts. While water isn't directly at every site, the reliable delivery service is a testament to their commitment to guest satisfaction. The pet-friendly policy also means that our beloved furry family members can join in on the adventure, a key consideration for many Illinois families.

Finally, the flexible pricing, including appealing yearly rental options and hunter specials, demonstrates TK Ranch's understanding of diverse local needs and extended stays. It makes it a practical and affordable option for regular retreats or seasonal bases. TK Ranch Campground, with its blend of natural beauty, equestrian focus, essential amenities, and warm, local hospitality, truly offers an authentic and rewarding outdoor experience right here in our own Southern Illinois. It’s a place where memories are made under big skies and among friendly faces, making it a highly recommended destination for any Illinoisan.