Main Brothers Campground

For Illinois residents looking to explore the natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities that the southern part of the state has to offer, Main Brothers Campground in Karnak stands out as a practical and well-positioned destination. This campground provides a straightforward and inviting experience for both RV and tent campers, serving as an excellent base for adventures, particularly for those keen on cycling the famed Tunnel Hill State Trail. While a more basic setup than some larger resorts, its focus on essential amenities and a well-maintained environment makes it a solid choice for those prioritizing access to nature and tranquility. Visitors consistently praise its convenient location and friendly atmosphere. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of Main Brothers Campground, detailing its strategic location, available services, key features, and why it is a highly suitable option for locals seeking an authentic Illinois outdoor experience.

Main Brothers Campground is conveniently located at 164-224 S Franklin St, Karnak, IL 62956, USA. This address places it firmly in Southern Illinois, making it an accessible retreat for residents throughout the region and beyond. Its proximity to major roadways ensures a relatively easy journey for campers coming from various parts of Illinois, including those from St. Louis, Missouri, or even central Illinois cities. A significant highlight of its location, repeatedly mentioned by visitors, is its direct access to the southern end of the renowned Tunnel Hill State Trail. This 45-mile rail-to-trail path offers unparalleled opportunities for biking and hiking, making the campground an ideal starting point for day-long excursions. Furthermore, its placement in Karnak means it's nestled within an area rich in natural beauty and close to the expansive Shawnee National Forest, providing a myriad of additional outdoor activities. Despite its rural setting, the convenience of a Dollar General store "just around the corner" means that essential supplies are easily accessible, blending the best of outdoor escape with practical needs. This blend of accessibility to major outdoor attractions and local conveniences makes Main Brothers Campground a highly appealing choice for Illinois locals.

Main Brothers Campground, managed by the Village of Karnak, provides a range of essential services designed to offer a comfortable and efficient camping experience. Their focus is on providing fundamental amenities for both RV and tent campers, ensuring a hassle-free stay.

• Tent Camping Sites: Available for $21.00 per night, catering to those who prefer a more traditional, primitive camping experience or tent camping within an RV site.
• RV Camping Sites: Priced at $25.00 per night, these sites are well-equipped for recreational vehicles.
• Electric Hookups: All RV locations offer electric hookup. Specifically, sites 1-5 and 7-12 have 50 amp electric hookup, while all other RV sites are 30 amp only.
• Water Hookups: Water hookups are available at all RV sites, providing convenient access to potable water.
• Sewer Hookups: Select RV sites (6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 19) are equipped with sewer hookups for added convenience.
• Dump Station: A vital service available at the campground entrance for proper wastewater disposal from RVs.
• Well-Maintained Restroom Facilities: The campground provides restroom facilities (though some reviews mention portable options), which are maintained for guest use.
• Reservation System: Reservations can be made by emailing or calling the Village of Karnak office, with a $20.00 non-refundable deposit required for RV spots, which is then applied to the final bill.

Main Brothers Campground, while "small and basic" as one review noted, offers distinct features and highlights that make it particularly appealing, especially for those seeking active outdoor pursuits in Southern Illinois.

• Direct Access to Tunnel Hill State Trail: This is arguably the biggest highlight. The campground is located at the southern end of the 45-mile Tunnel Hill Rail to Trail, providing immediate access for biking, hiking, and exploring the scenic route. The ability to ride directly from the campground to the trailhead is a significant advantage for cyclists.
• Proximity to Shawnee National Forest: The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the vast natural wonders of the nearby Shawnee National Forest, offering opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.
• Fire Rings: Campers appreciate the presence of nice fire rings at each site, perfect for enjoying campfires and cooking outdoors.
• Play Area for Kids: The presence of an area for kids to play adds to its family-friendly appeal.
• Group Cookout Area: A medium-sized area designated for group cookouts suggests the campground can accommodate small gatherings.
• Ability to Scrounge for Firewood: The option to collect fallen wood from the attached small nature trail or nearby main trail offers a more traditional camping experience, though caution with insects (mosquitos) is advised.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: The campground is generally pet-friendly, allowing campers to bring their furry companions along for their adventures (standard leash rules and waste cleanup apply).
• Nearby Dollar General: The convenience of a Dollar General store just "around the corner" means easy access to forgotten items or last-minute supplies.
• Good Site Spacing: Reviews indicate reasonable spacing between sites (30-40 feet side-to-side, 60 feet tail-to-stern), offering a degree of privacy.

To book your stay or inquire further about Main Brothers Campground, please use the following contact information:

Address: 164-224 S Franklin St, Karnak, IL 62956, USA

Phone: (618) 634-9311

Mobile Phone: +1 618-634-9311

For reservations, campers are advised to email karnakvillagehall@gmail.com or call the Village of Karnak office at (618) 634-9311. If no one is available, leaving a message with your name, number, desired dates, and whether you need an RV or tent site will ensure a call back on the next business day. There is also an emergency number for urgent issues: 618-771-3762.

Main Brothers Campground is an exceptionally suitable choice for Illinois locals, particularly those in Southern Illinois, seeking an authentic and active outdoor experience. Its primary appeal lies in its strategic location directly at the southern end of the Tunnel Hill State Trail, making it a perfect base for cycling enthusiasts and hikers eager to explore this renowned path. The campground's array of RV amenities, including various electric and sewer hookup options, coupled with dedicated tent sites, caters to diverse camping preferences. Its well-maintained, if basic, facilities and the convenience of a nearby Dollar General ensure a comfortable and practical stay. For those looking to delve into the vast natural beauty of the Shawnee National Forest, Main Brothers Campground provides easy access to countless adventures, from scenic drives to wildlife observation. It offers a peaceful and well-positioned launching point for exploring one of Illinois' most stunning natural regions, making it an ideal local destination for an outdoor getaway that combines activity with relaxation.

Main Brothers Campground

164-224 S Franklin St, Karnak, IL 62956, USA