Located near Golconda Illinois, Dixon Springs State Park is small, but packs a lot into a small place. It offers camping, picnicking, hiking, group cabins with a shower house and even a modern pool complete with lifeguard and a 45-foot waterslide. Its central location makes it an excellent place to stay while exploring the Shawnee National Forest.
Cliffs and huge boulders line the small canyon valley alongside of a small creek that is central to the park. The hiking trails are quite nice, and lead to some very interesting rock formations that are creatively name like Ghost Dance, Pluto’s Cave, Rib Wrencher and Devil’s Workshop. Our favorite trail is the Bluff trail.
Camping and Picnicking
Three shaded picnic area offer tables and grills. There are two picnic shelters with playgrounds.
There is a Class B electric camping area with a dumping station and ten primitive sites in a beautiful pine forest.
Also available: Basketball courts, Horseshoe pits, Volleyball courts and last time we visited an Archery range.
Local amenities
If you forget something. you can find what you need just a few minutes away in Golconda (10 miles) or for more options Vienna (14 miles).
Final Assessment from a Campers point of view
We enjoy staying here, however most of the campsites are pretty close and not level. The parks location makes it ideal for exploring the Shawnee National Forest. Be sure to check out the Chocolate Factory located next to the park.
Directions
From Harrisburg: Take Highway 145 south 30 miles, then take exit to Rt. 146. At the stop sign turn right and the park entrance is 1 mile on the left.
From Metropolis: (intersection I-24 & Hwy 145): Take Highway 145 north 16 miles, then take exit to Rt. 146. At the stop sign turn right and the park entrance is 1 mile on the left.
From I-24 traveling East: Take exit #16 to Rt. 146. At the stop sign turn left and the park is 13 miles on the left.
From I-24 traveling West: Take exit #16 to Rt. 146. At the stop sign turn right and the park entrance is 13 miles on the left.
For more detailed information on the park visit IDNR