Sand Ridge State Forest RV & Campground Guide
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The 7,200-acre Sand Ridge State Forest is located southwest of Peoria and offers a pleasant break from the sea of agriculture that encompasses the entirety of Illinois. It is also the largest forest in the state and features lush trees, native oak-hickory woodlands, pine plantations, grasslands, and beautiful prairies that will take your breath away upon first sight. There are also opportunities for fishing, hiking, biking, swimming, and hunting. Sand Ridge State Forest is near Manito, San Jose, and Green Valley.
Spring 30-75 F
Summer 61-88 F
Fall 32-80 F
Winter 15-52 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Sand Ridge State Forest
If you want to enjoy a comfortable trip to Sand Ridge State Forest without having to spend a fortune, you can rent an RV from RVshare. With an RV, you will not have to worry about lodging and can enjoy all the modern amenities during the trip.
Sand Ridge State Forest RV Park and Campground
Sand Ridge State Forest Campground is the most convenient place to stay when exploring the area. This RV park and campground offers a serene environment for those who want to spend quality time with their families and go hiking in peace. This campground is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends with you. The trails are sandy and may require more effort than paved trails. These trails will bring you through the stunning pine forest to open grasslands where you can rest, have a picnic, or enjoy bird-watching. There is an archery range within the state park along with guided hunting tours, snowmobile and equestrian trails, cross-country skiing options, and dog-training playgrounds. If you are interested in geocaching, this campground will offer plenty of options for you.
Pop-Up Paradise RV Park and Campground
This campground is located inside Red Gate Farm, LLC. Upon your arrival, you will receive an info packet to help guide you throughout your stay. There is a pond at this campground along with short hiking trails nearby, where you can go for an excellent picnicking experience with your family. You can also see white-tail deer, wild turkey, and other animals at the pond during sunset or sunrise. This campground is only two miles away from the world-famous Lincoln's New Salem State Park and Historic Site.
What to Do at
Sand Ridge State Forest
Inside Sand Ridge State Forest
Visitors can enjoy activities such as snowmobiling, skiing, fishing, boating, camping, hiking, and hunting. There are also geocaching ventures for enthusiasts, and you can take part in ranger-led archery programs that are fun for kids and adults alike. There are 55 miles of trails and 150 miles of fire lanes for equestrian enthusiasts. During the winter season, the trails are packed with 4 inches of snow. There are also rifles and handguns available for shooting.
How to Get to
Sand Ridge State Forest
If you are coming from the west, east, or south, you can take IL Route 136 to Mason County Road 2800E and turn north at the end of the route. You will need to drive for another six miles, and you will reach the village of Forest City. Once you turn west on this road, you will find Mason County Road 2300N. This road will lead you to the state park.
If you are coming from the north, you will need to take IL Route 29 south out of Pekin to Manito Road. You will need to take a west turn here and drive another 20 miles to get to Manito. In Manito, you will come across a giant sign that will say “Mason County Road 2500N.” You will need to take a right turn at the sign and drive for another six miles. The entrance to the park should be in front of you.
Entering Sand Ridge State Forest
The park is open year-round and is free for everyone.
Sand Ridge State Forest Per vehicle : $0.0
Sand Ridge State Forest offers the best cross-country skiing, trap shooting, archery, and hiking trails in the region. You can also go hunting, hiking, or camping without worrying about getting lost; the trails are filled with signs and directions. There are hundreds of gorgeous places in the park where you can capture memorable pictures with your family. When you post about the area on social media, be sure to tag RVshare. You can also send your photos and stories to [email protected]. We may even feature your pictures on our next blog.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sand Ridge State Forest
There are plenty of activities to enjoy all year at Sand Ridge State Forest. From picnicking and hiking trails to 26 miles of snowmobiling trails and 50 miles of equestrian trails, there is something for everyone.
The park is a nesting stop for migrating birds, including ovenbird, indigo bunting, scarlet tanager, and veery. Other wildlife in the park includes deer, quail, turkeys, squirrels, pheasants, and doves.
The Pine Camp campground in Sand Ridge State Forest offers 24 RV-friendly sites. Site amenities include fire pads, picnic tables, water spigots, and vault toilets. There are no water, electric, or sewage hookups.
Yes, reservations for camping spots are required. Campers can place reservations six months in advance and up to four days before the date of arrival. There is a $5 reservation fee.
Sand Ridge State Forest is pet-friendly. However, dogs must be on a leash and under supervision at all times. Pet owners must clean up after their pets. Pets are not permitted in cabins.
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