Wine Trail Wilderness camp

Wine Trail Wilderness is a 37-acre private campground nestled in the heart of Southern Illinois’ Shawnee National Forest, located along the renowned Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. The property offers peaceful, back-to-nature camping experiences surrounded by hiking trails, forests, and creeks, all within walking distance of several acclaimed wineries, including Pomona Winery and Hickory Ridge Winery. Wine Trail Wilderness is a creative, welcoming base for travelers looking to explore Southern Illinois wine country and reconnect with the land.

Set amid the forests and hills of the Shawnee National Forest, the campground is the passion project of Jon Womack, a retired Spanish teacher and self-taught builder. Campsites are spread out across the property, some set beside wildflowers, others near newly planted trees that will soon grow into shady groves, while some of Jon’s best-loved projects include the upcycled GrainZebo (a former grain bin turned social hub), a bocce ball court, and a characterful new outhouse he is currently building using the frame of an old truck.