Camp Pine Ridge

For those of us here in Illinois, the pursuit of a perfect outdoor escape often leads us to seek places that combine the tranquility of nature with well-maintained facilities. Camp Pine Ridge, located in the picturesque landscape of Makanda, offers just that – a serene and memorable camping experience that consistently earns high praise for its cleanliness, maintenance, and overall atmosphere. While it's particularly well-known as a fantastic Scout camp, its welcoming environment extends to all who wish to enjoy the peace of the pine trees and the beauty of Southern Illinois.

Imagine sending your children to a youth camp where their primary feedback is not about issues or complaints, but about how relaxing and memorable their time was. This is the experience Camp Pine Ridge consistently delivers. It’s a testament to their dedication that even the most discerning young campers have "ZERO complaints about cleanliness, maintenance issues, facilities." This focus on providing a pristine and functional environment sets Camp Pine Ridge apart, ensuring that your time is spent enjoying the outdoors, not worrying about the upkeep of your surroundings. Whether you're a family looking for a clean and safe place to create lasting memories, or an individual seeking a peaceful retreat where "the pine trees whisper you to sleep," Camp Pine Ridge is a truly special destination within our own backyard.

Camp Pine Ridge is perfectly situated at 1139 Pine Ridge Ln, Makanda, IL 62958, USA. This location places it squarely within the heart of Southern Illinois, a region renowned for its stunning natural beauty, particularly within the Shawnee National Forest and near the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. For Illinois residents, this means a manageable drive to a truly immersive outdoor setting.

Makanda itself is a charming village known for its artistic community and its gateway status to numerous hiking trails and natural wonders. The campground's address on "Pine Ridge Ln" hints at the serene, forested environment that awaits visitors. Its proximity to major natural attractions like Giant City State Park and Little Grassy Lake makes it an ideal base for exploration. While tucked away enough to offer a sense of escape, Camp Pine Ridge is still conveniently accessible from various parts of Illinois via well-maintained state routes, ensuring a smooth journey to your peaceful retreat. The drive through this scenic part of the state only adds to the anticipation of a relaxing and memorable camping experience.

Camp Pine Ridge, while celebrated for its rustic charm and natural setting, also provides essential services and amenities that ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. While specifically known for its youth and scout programs, its facilities are designed to accommodate various camping needs.

• Campsites: The camp offers a mix of camping options, including dedicated tent camping areas and sites suitable for RVs, with some having electric hookups (typically 50/30/20 amp). However, it's important to note that full hookups (water and sewer at the site) are generally not available for RVs, meaning campers should be prepared for dry camping or utilizing central water spigots and off-site dump stations.
• Clean Facilities: A consistent highlight from reviews is the exceptional cleanliness of the facilities, particularly the vault toilets, which are regularly maintained. Some areas may also have restrooms with running water and newly built showers.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available from central water spigots, though typically not at individual campsites for RVs.
• Outdoor Shelters/Pavilions: Many camping areas feature pavilions, offering communal spaces for groups or families.
• Youth & Scout Programs: As a prominent Boy Scout camp, it offers comprehensive scouting programs, including character building, citizenship education, and personal fitness development. This includes activities like archery, BB guns, and various outdoor skills training.
• Cabin/Lodge Rentals: Beyond traditional camping, Camp Pine Ridge also offers cabin and lodge accommodations, such as Musgraves Lodge and Troop Lodge, which are equipped with basic amenities like bunks, refrigerators, and wood-burning stoves (with outdoor water and latrines).
• On-Site Activities: For scout groups and potentially other campers, activities like kayaking, canoeing, fishing on Little Grassy Lake, BB range, and archery range are available.
• Dining Hall & Meeting Spaces: Facilities like Bailey Lodge and Akela's Pavilion are available for meetings, events, and potentially meals for organized groups.

• Pristine Cleanliness and Maintenance: This is arguably Camp Pine Ridge's most outstanding feature. Reviewers consistently laud the cleanliness of the facilities, from restrooms to general grounds, ensuring a worry-free and pleasant camping environment.
• Beautiful Pine Forests: The name "Pine Ridge" is well-deserved, with towering pine trees that contribute to a serene atmosphere, often noted for their soothing "whispers" that help campers relax and sleep.
• Expansive 150-Acre Haven: The camp encompasses a vast area, providing ample space for exploration, privacy between sites, and a true sense of being immersed in nature.
• Located within Shawnee National Forest and Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge: This prime location offers breathtaking natural backdrops, abundant wildlife, vibrant wildflowers, and captivating sunsets, enhancing the overall outdoor experience.
• Access to Little Grassy Lake: The camp is situated along the shores of Little Grassy Lake, providing opportunities for water-based activities like kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, along with a swimming area and fishing pier.
• Spacious and Private Sites: Many campsites, particularly the rustic ones, are well-spread out, offering a good degree of privacy for campers. Even electric sites are generally roomy.
• Ideal for Scout Groups: Camp Pine Ridge is exceptionally well-suited for Boy Scout activities, offering a robust program and facilities tailored to youth development and outdoor education.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: Though not explicitly mentioned in the provided snippet, the positive experience of the daughter "having ZERO complaints" often implies a supportive and efficient staff ensuring smooth operations. (General knowledge of scout camps also supports this.)
• Great for Stargazing: With its location away from major light pollution, the campground provides excellent opportunities for stargazing on clear nights.

Address: 1139 Pine Ridge Ln, Makanda, IL 62958, USA

Phone: (618) 660-7708

Mobile Phone: +1 618-660-7708

For us Illinoisans, Camp Pine Ridge in Makanda stands out as an exemplary choice for a refreshing and memorable outdoor experience. We understand the importance of finding a place where you can truly unwind, and this campground consistently delivers a clean, well-maintained, and incredibly peaceful environment. The fact that a youth camper had "ZERO complaints about cleanliness, maintenance issues, facilities" speaks volumes about the care and dedication invested in this site, assuring adults that their stay will be comfortable and worry-free.

The natural beauty of Camp Pine Ridge is a major draw. Nestled among whispering pine trees and within the expansive Shawnee National Forest and Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, it offers a genuine immersion into the Illinois wilderness. This isn't just a place to park a camper or pitch a tent; it's an opportunity to connect with nature, whether through serene walks, enjoying the sounds of wildlife, or simply relaxing by Little Grassy Lake. The availability of lake activities like kayaking and fishing further enhances its appeal for those who love water recreation.

While particularly well-regarded as a Scout camp, its fundamental strengths – cleanliness, beautiful setting, and a tranquil atmosphere – make it highly suitable for all Illinois families and individuals seeking a restorative getaway. It’s an ideal spot to introduce children to the joys of camping in a safe and supportive environment, or for adults to simply unplug and enjoy the quiet solace of the woods. Camp Pine Ridge provides that perfect blend of rustic charm and reliable comfort, making it a top-tier choice for your next outdoor adventure right here in Southern Illinois.

Camp Pine Ridge

1139 Pine Ridge Ln, Makanda, IL 62958, USA