LITTLE LUSK TRAIL LODGE CAMPGROUND

little lusk trail lodge campground

Hello, fellow Illinois outdoor enthusiasts! If you're searching for the ultimate camping experience that combines natural beauty, modern comforts, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, look no further than LITTLE LUSK TRAIL LODGE CAMPGROUND. Nestled on a breathtaking 85-acre property in Stonefort, Illinois, this campground is a true gem in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest. For those of us living in the Prairie State, it offers an ideal retreat for families, equestrians, and anyone eager to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of Southern Illinois. It’s a place where memorable moments are made, and the worries of daily life simply melt away amidst the peaceful surroundings.

LITTLE LUSK TRAIL LODGE CAMPGROUND is far more than your average camping spot; it's a meticulously maintained and thoughtfully designed destination. Imagine waking up to the tranquility of the forest, with the crisp Illinois air invigorating your senses. Whether you're planning a fun-filled family getaway with activities for the kids, or an adventurous horse-riding expedition through miles of scenic trails, this campground is equipped to cater to your every need. What truly sets it apart, as highlighted by numerous satisfied campers, is the incredible hospitality of the staff and owners. Described as "kind, welcoming staff" and "wonderful ladies" who are attentive and helpful, they create an atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. The emphasis on cleanliness, from the "clean and well kept" grounds to the "clean showers and bathrooms with hot water," ensures a comfortable and worry-free stay. This dedication to guest satisfaction and the natural beauty of the surroundings make LITTLE LUSK TRAIL LODGE CAMPGROUND a highly recommended choice for locals seeking a top-notch outdoor experience right here in Illinois.

LITTLE LUSK TRAIL LODGE CAMPGROUND boasts an excellent location at 50 Barger Rd, Stonefort, IL 62987, USA. This address places it perfectly within the eastern half of the sprawling and picturesque Shawnee National Forest, a renowned natural treasure in Southern Illinois. For residents of Illinois, this means a convenient and relatively short drive to access some of the state's most captivating outdoor environments. Whether you're coming from Chicago, Springfield, St. Louis (just across the border), or any other part of Illinois, the journey to Stonefort offers a scenic prelude to your outdoor adventure.

The accessibility of LITTLE LUSK TRAIL LODGE CAMPGROUND is a significant advantage for local users. While it provides a wonderful sense of being "away from it all" and deeply connected to nature, it’s also "just minutes away from anywhere you want to be in the eastern half of Shawnee National Forest." This strategic positioning allows for easy day trips to explore numerous points of interest within the forest, such as Burden Falls (the tallest falls in Illinois), Bell Smith Springs (known for its scenic canyons and primitive swimming holes), and the iconic Garden of the Gods. This balance of secluded tranquility and convenient access to attractions makes it an ideal hub for exploring the rich outdoor offerings of Southern Illinois.

Navigating to the campground is generally straightforward, with well-maintained roads leading into Stonefort. Once you arrive, you’ll appreciate the ease of access to the campground itself, even for larger RVs, allowing you to quickly settle in and start enjoying your vacation. Its location ensures that you spend more time hiking, riding, and relaxing, and less time on the road, making it a perfect escape for Illinoisans looking to maximize their outdoor recreation.

LITTLE LUSK TRAIL LODGE CAMPGROUND prides itself on offering a comprehensive array of services and amenities designed to enhance the comfort and enjoyment of all its guests, whether they are families, equestrians, or general campers. The thoughtful provisions ensure a convenient and relaxing stay:

• Spacious Campsites: The campground offers 50 spacious campsites, many with electric and water hookups, and 7 sites also include sewer hookups. There is also a central sewer dump available.
• Comfortable Lodge Rooms: For those seeking a blend of camping and comfort, the lodge features six private rooms, each with a full bath and a small refrigerator. Linen and towel service are included.
• Clean Bathhouse & Laundry: Guests consistently praise the "clean showers and bathrooms" with hot water, located in the bathhouse. Laundry facilities are also available in the Lodge for a small fee.
• Horse Accommodations: A major highlight for equestrians, the campground offers free highlines behind most campsites and provides covered box stalls and open pens for rent. They also sell hay and shavings.
• On-Site Store: Firewood, hay, shavings, and ice are available for purchase on-site, providing essential camping supplies.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Both horses and other pets are welcomed, allowing the entire family to enjoy the outdoor adventure together.
• Event Barn: A beautiful Event Barn is available for special gatherings such as rustic weddings, anniversary parties, and family reunions.

LITTLE LUSK TRAIL LODGE CAMPGROUND is distinguished by its exceptional features and highlights, which create a truly unique and enjoyable camping experience for its visitors. These aspects are frequently lauded by satisfied customers and contribute to its reputation as a top-tier destination:

• Direct Trail Access to Shawnee National Forest: One of the most compelling features is the direct connection to "hundreds of miles of trails" within the Shawnee National Forest, including the Lusk Creek Wilderness area and Bay Creek Wilderness area. Three trailheads lead directly from the campground, offering immediate access to stunning scenery, creeks, and waterfalls.
• Family-Friendly Activities: The campground offers "so many fun things for kids," including bounce houses, a playground, an obstacle course, chalk, a water table, and a dedicated fun play area within the lodge. This makes it an ideal spot for families with children.
• Equestrian Paradise: Beyond just horse accommodations, the campground is designed for horse lovers, offering easy exploration of "beautiful horses" on-site and vast opportunities for "amazing horse-riding adventures" on dedicated trails.
• Community & Fellowship: The lodge features a large gathering area with a big screen TV, kitchen, and dining area, along with a large covered porch, often used for "fellowship" and events like "Cowboy Church," fostering a friendly community atmosphere where "many new friends have been made." The owners also host various events like live bands, potlucks, and cook-offs.
• Pristine & Well-Kept Grounds: Visitors consistently highlight the campground's cleanliness and meticulous maintenance, describing it as "beautiful" and "spotless."
• Quiet and Respectful Environment: The campground is noted for being "quiet at night," with "all the campers respectful," ensuring a peaceful retreat for everyone.
• Fishing Ponds & Swimming Hole: The campground boasts "some of the best fishing in the area located right on our campground," and also has a "great swimming hole," providing additional recreational opportunities on-site.

For bookings, inquiries, or to learn more about the diverse offerings at LITTLE LUSK TRAIL LODGE CAMPGROUND, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 50 Barger Rd, Stonefort, IL 62987, USA
• Phone: (270) 205-7138
• Mobile Phone: +1 270-205-7138

It is always recommended to contact the campground directly to check availability, especially during peak seasons, and to get the most up-to-date information on rates and specific amenities for your planned stay.

For us Illinois residents, LITTLE LUSK TRAIL LODGE CAMPGROUND is an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for numerous reasons. Firstly, its convenient location in Stonefort means that a spectacular outdoor escape is just a manageable drive away, allowing for spontaneous weekend trips or longer, more immersive vacations without the hassle of extensive travel out of state. This accessibility makes it a prime choice for maximizing leisure time and minimizing travel stress.

Secondly, the campground offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to a wide range of interests, making it ideal for diverse groups of local campers. Families will particularly appreciate the abundance of kid-friendly activities, from playgrounds and bounce houses to a dedicated play area in the lodge. This ensures that younger campers are entertained and engaged, allowing parents to truly relax. For equestrians, the specialized facilities, including highlines and stalls, combined with direct access to hundreds of miles of horse trails in the Shawnee National Forest, are unparalleled. This makes it a go-to destination for horse owners across Illinois seeking top-tier trail riding opportunities.

Finally, the consistent feedback on the "kind, welcoming staff" and "wonderful owners" speaks volumes about the hospitality you can expect. The emphasis on cleanliness, quiet nights, and a respectful camping community creates a truly comfortable and enjoyable environment for everyone. Whether you're seeking adventure on the trails, a peaceful family retreat, or a social gathering with fellow campers, LITTLE LUSK TRAIL LODGE CAMPGROUND offers an authentic, high-quality outdoor experience that celebrates the natural beauty and community spirit of Southern Illinois. It's a place where locals can easily create cherished memories and return to year after year.

LITTLE LUSK TRAIL LODGE CAMPGROUND

50 Barger Rd, Stonefort, IL 62987, USA