Raccoon Ridge Campground

red hills state park camping

Are you an Illinoisan looking for a serene and well-equipped camping destination that offers both comfort and access to natural beauty? Raccoon Ridge Campground, nestled within the picturesque Red Hills State Park in Sumner, IL, is an excellent choice for your next outdoor adventure. This campground is part of a cherished state park, providing a fantastic opportunity for locals to explore the diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities that Southern Illinois has to offer.

Raccoon Ridge Campground, as a component of Red Hills State Park, is known for its commitment to providing a quality experience for its visitors. While specific reviews for "Raccoon Ridge Campground" in Sumner, IL, are limited to general positive feedback like "Great place... loved it... great staff... goin back again soon," the extensive information available for Red Hills State Park itself allows us to paint a comprehensive picture. This feedback, though brief, strongly suggests a positive atmosphere and well-managed facilities, which are key for a relaxing and enjoyable camping trip.

Red Hills State Park is a local treasure, characterized by its wooded hills, picturesque meadows, and a tranquil 40-acre lake. For Illinois residents, this means direct access to hiking trails, fishing, boating, and picnicking opportunities right from your campsite. The park’s dedication to maintaining its natural beauty and providing visitor amenities makes Raccoon Ridge Campground a suitable and appealing choice for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.

This article will delve into the location and accessibility of Raccoon Ridge Campground within Red Hills State Park, detail the services and features you can anticipate, and ultimately, highlight why this spot is perfectly suited for Illinois locals seeking their next memorable outdoor escape. Get ready to discover the charm and convenience of camping in southeastern Illinois!

Location and Accessibility

Raccoon Ridge Campground is located within Red Hills State Park, near Sumner, IL 62466, USA. This places it in Lawrence County, in the southeastern part of Illinois, strategically positioned between Olney and Lawrenceville on U.S. Route 50. This area is known for its unique topography, featuring "Red Hill" — the highest point between Cincinnati and St. Louis, offering a distinct landscape compared to much of the flat Illinois terrain.

For Illinois residents, accessing Raccoon Ridge Campground is straightforward. U.S. 50 provides a direct route, making the park easily reachable from various parts of the state. From Central Illinois cities like Springfield or Champaign, or even from the greater Chicago metropolitan area, the drive leads you through the changing landscapes of Illinois, culminating in the scenic beauty of the Red Hills region. Its proximity to U.S. 50 ensures good road conditions and minimizes travel time once off major interstates.

The park itself is divided into two sections by U.S. 50, with the campground primarily located in the south section. This setup provides a sense of immersion in nature while still being convenient to the main highway. Sumner, as a small local community, offers basic services and supplies if needed, ensuring campers have access to necessities without venturing far.

The location within Red Hills State Park is a significant advantage, providing direct access to the park's 967 acres of high wooded hills, deep ravines, meadows, and a 40-acre lake. This means outdoor activities are literally steps away from your campsite. The carefully preserved environment of Red Hills State Park, combined with the accessibility of Raccoon Ridge Campground, makes it an attractive and practical choice for Illinois residents looking to explore a different side of their home state.

Services Offered

As part of Red Hills State Park, Raccoon Ridge Campground offers a range of services designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, catering to various preferences from tent camping to RVs with hookups:

• Campsites: The campground offers a total of 103 RV sites and 103 tent sites, indicating ample capacity. These include 103 electric-only sites (with 86 providing 30 Amps and 17 offering 50 Amps) and 5 pull-through sites, accommodating various RV sizes (max RV length 46 ft). There is also a dedicated group site.
• Modern Restrooms: The campground provides well-maintained bathhouses with modern utility buildings that include flush toilets and hot showers, a significant convenience for campers.
• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available for RVs, making waste disposal convenient for those with self-contained units.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit or grill, allowing campers to prepare meals and enjoy campfires.
• Water Access: Potable water is available throughout the campground.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Raccoon Ridge Campground is pet-friendly, allowing well-behaved pets on leash, aligning with the "Pets Welcome" policy of Red Hills State Park.
• Playground: A playground is available for children, enhancing the family-friendly atmosphere of the park.
• Concessions/Camp Store: While not explicitly listed for "Raccoon Ridge," state parks often feature concessions or a small store for essentials like firewood, ice, and snacks.
• Online Reservations: Most sites are reservable through the ExploreMoreIL™ online reservation system, allowing campers to plan their trips in advance. Some sites may also be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Cabin Rental: Red Hills State Park also offers one cabin for rent, which can sleep up to 6 people and includes amenities like air conditioning, heating, and a private shower, offering an alternative to traditional camping.

Features / Highlights

Raccoon Ridge Campground, by virtue of its location within Red Hills State Park, boasts numerous features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for Illinois locals:

• Scenic Landscape: The park is characterized by its "high wooded hills, deep ravines, captivating meadows and year-round springs," offering a unique and picturesque setting that stands out in Illinois. The "Red Hill" itself provides panoramic views.
• 40-Acre Fishing Lake: A sparkling 40-acre lake is a central feature, ideal for fishing (largemouth bass, channel catfish, sunfish, bluegill, bullhead) and electric-trolling motor boating. A boat launching ramp is available for both rental and private boats.
• Extensive Trail System: The park offers a variety of trails for hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians, allowing visitors to explore the diverse ecosystems and enjoy the natural tranquility.
• Modern Amenities for Comfort: The presence of hot showers, flush toilets, and electric hookups (including 30 and 50 Amps) provides a comfortable camping experience that balances rustic charm with essential conveniences.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: Being a pet-friendly campground ensures that Illinois families can bring their beloved animals, making for a more inclusive and enjoyable outdoor adventure.
• Family-Friendly Activities: With a playground, opportunities for swimming, and ample space for outdoor games, the campground is well-suited for families with children.
• Unique Historical Significance: The park holds historical significance as the westernmost edge of the Vincennes Tract and the Indian boundary line, offering a unique educational aspect for visitors interested in Illinois history.
• Affordable Rates: While specific rates for "Raccoon Ridge" aren't broken out, Red Hills State Park's camping rates generally fall within a very reasonable range for Illinois State Parks, making it an accessible option for many locals.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Consistent with the positive feedback received, the park and campground facilities are generally well-maintained, ensuring a pleasant and clean environment for campers.

Contact Information

For reservations or specific inquiries about Raccoon Ridge Campground within Red Hills State Park, Illinois locals can utilize the following contact information. As Raccoon Ridge is part of a state park, inquiries are typically handled through the park office or the central Illinois State Park reservation system.

Address: Sumner, IL 62466, USA (Note: The park's main address often serves for campground inquiries.)

Park Office Phone: (618) 936-2469

For the most reliable and up-to-date information, it is highly recommended to use the official Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) website for Red Hills State Park or the ExploreMoreIL™ online reservation system. This system allows you to check campsite availability, make reservations, and review specific park rules and regulations. While phone calls are helpful for general inquiries, online booking is often the most efficient way to secure a campsite, especially during peak seasons.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

Raccoon Ridge Campground, situated within Red Hills State Park in Sumner, IL, is an exceptionally suitable and highly attractive destination for Illinois locals. It offers a compelling combination of natural beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and well-maintained facilities, making it an ideal choice for a memorable outdoor getaway within our state.

For Illinoisans, its location in southeastern Illinois provides a refreshing change of scenery, particularly with its unique "Red Hills" topography. This accessible escape means you don't have to travel far to immerse yourself in beautiful wooded landscapes, explore hiking trails, and enjoy a tranquil lakeside experience. The ease of access via U.S. 50 further enhances its appeal for weekend trips or longer vacations.

The comprehensive services offered, from electric hook-up RV sites to modern restrooms with hot showers, cater to a wide range of camping preferences, ensuring comfort for both seasoned RVers and traditional tent campers. The presence of a playground and a pet-friendly policy also makes it an excellent choice for families looking to enjoy the outdoors with all their loved ones.

Furthermore, the direct access to Red Hills State Park's myriad features – including a 40-acre lake for fishing and boating, extensive hiking trails, and picturesque picnic areas – means there's always an activity to suit every interest. This integrated recreational offering maximizes the value of your camping experience, allowing you to seamlessly transition from relaxation at your campsite to active exploration of the park.

In essence, Raccoon Ridge Campground at Red Hills State Park is more than just a place to stay; it's an invitation for Illinois locals to reconnect with nature, enjoy affordable recreation, and create lasting memories in one of our state's charming natural gems. Its blend of convenience, comfort, and natural allure makes it a highly recommended choice for your next Illinois outdoor adventure.

Raccoon Ridge Campground

Sumner, IL 62466, USA