Johnson Creek Recreation Area

Located on a northwest finger of beautiful Kinkaid Lake, Johnson Creek Recreation Area offers a variety of outdoor activities. Here you will find something for everyone in the family, from camping and kayaking to hiking along the lake, biking the scenic roads and horseback riding.

Reservations

Campground is first come-first serve. No reservations.

General Information

Maps and Guides

Johnson Creek Recreation Area Guide and Map

Johnson Creek Campground featuring large campsites, hitching posts and highline poles, it is one of the few Forest Service campgrounds that allows equestrians and their stock. Double and triple campsites accommodate larger groups. Equestrian trails lead from the campground and link to the extensive Kinkaid Lake trail system. There are no boat rentals at Johnson Creek.

Boat Launch: Recommended for small watercraft, such as canoes, kayaks or small boat with motor. It is located in the large parking lot on the left upon entering the recreation area.

Water Activities: One of the larger lakes (2750 acres) in southern Illinois, Kinkaid Lake is popular for fishing, swimming, sunbathing, water skiing, boating, canoeing, kayaking and waterfowl hunting.

Fishing Regulations: Lg./Smallmouth bass -16” min. Daily limit=3
Pure Muskellunge – 48” minimum length
White/Black or Hybrid Crappie – 9: min. Daily limit=25
For site specific regulations or to obtain a fishing license go to Illinois fishing regulations.

Watercraft Motor Restrictions: None.

Campground open from 3/15 - 12/15 Boat Launch & picnic area - Open year-round.

Pets are alowed only on a leash.
Picnic areas open 6am-10pm.
Use trash receptacles
Camp only at designated campsites.
Stay on the designated trails.
Please Pack It In, Pack it Out when on trails.
Camp at least 150 feet from the lakeshore.
No horseback riding is allowed in the day-use areas.

Day Use: No Fee
Single Campsite - $10/night - 8 people & 2 vehicle max
Double Campsite - $12/night
Triple Campsite - $15/night Payment cash or check only.

Address: 521 N. Main Street Jonesboro, IL 62952
Phone: 618-833-8576
Hours: Tuesdays & Thursdays 8:00 am - 4:30 pm (closed 11:30 am -12:30 pm) (Closed on federal holidays)

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 37.83444444

Longitude: -89.52055556

Directions

From Murphysboro: Take Highway 149 west 7 miles to Highway 3; then north 4.5 miles on Highway 3 to Highway 151. Turn right onto Highway 151 and go 4 miles to recreation area.
From St. Louis: Take either Highway 3 or Highway 4 south to Chester, IL. Then south 18 miles on Highway 3; turn left onto Highway 151 and go 4 miles to recreation area.