Camp in the Trail of Tears State Forest

Trail of Tears State Forest lies within one of the most rugged landscapes in Illinois. The hills are steep, and the soil is shallow and susceptible to erosion. Cliffs are all around and streams with gravel bottoms are in the narrow forest filled valleys.

In 1838-39 the Cherokee, Creek, and Chickasaw nations were forced by the U.S. Army to move from the southeast to reservations in Oklahoma Territory. They wintered here in primitive camps. Bitter cold and starvation claimed hundreds of lives. The cruel trek came to be known as the "Trail of Tears." The State Forest's name memorializes the tragic event.

The CCC constructed many of the stonework stabilization walls and log stone shelters within the picnic area and along the Forest roads.

The Trail of Tears State Forest of today encompasses 5114 acres administered by the Illinois Division of Land Management. The nursery is operated by the Division of Forest Resources.

Both Class C (tent camping with vehicle access) and Class D (backpack) camping sites are available at the 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). 

More information on camping and enjoying the state forest can be found here.