Trail of Tears State Forest

Reserve Your Campsite

Both Class C (tent camping with vehicle access) and Class D (backpack) camping sites are available at Trail of Tears State Forest. Some locations have log shelters with adjacent privies. Group camping is available at a few sites. The forest's gravel roads are closed to vehicles from December 24 through the end of the spring wild turkey hunting season (generally the second week in May). All camping access is by foot only during that period (Class D). For information on group camping or special access concerns (during the winter-spring months), contact the site superintendent headquarters at (618-833-4910).

Campsite reservations are available through the ExploreMoreIL™ website. Campers without a reservation may register upon arrival with the "silent host" self-registration system.

Trails

The fire trails are open all year for hiking. There are hiking trails at Trail of Tears State Forest, including one designed for cross-country running. Other trails pass through hills and valleys where one can appreciate the lush vegetation and abundant wildlife. See the trail map link below.

Trail Map: Trail of Tears Map

Horseback riding is permitted along designated horse trails. Access and trailer parking are available at the equestrian trailhead along the county blacktop road. Horseback use and horse trailer parking is not permitted on or along roads or fire trails (except where those are part of a horse trail), on hiking trails, or anywhere south of the blacktop road. The horseback trails are open for use from May 1 to October 31. These trails may be closed temporarily in the event of heavy rains during the riding season; it is best to call the site for a current report on trail conditions (618-833-4910). A detailed map of the horseback trails is available upon request and can be found at the link below.

​Accessibility at Trail of Tears:

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Park terrain is very rugged and can be difficult to navigate.

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Parking - The park has mostly limestone rock parking lots, roads, campsites, and building access areas. The North Large Shelter does have a large oil & chip parking lot with several accessible parking spaces. The concrete sidewalk is 50' away from these parking spaces. Shelters 1 & 2 also have designated ADA-compliant parking spaces with a concrete sidewalk within a 50' distance. The sidewalk also provides access to a nearby vault toilet.

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Service animals are welcome, and there is a frost-proof water hydrant at the White Barn.