Lake of Egypt

The southeast side of the Lake of Egypt is surrounded by Shawnee National Forest and open to primitive camping in the general forest area. Hickory Ridge Boat Launch is a gravel launch situated on the eastern finger of Lake of Egypt in Johnson County.  Popular recreation activities include fishing, water sports, mushroom hunting, primitive camping and variety of hunting activities. No waterfowl hunting is allowed on the Lake.

General Information

From Marion:  Go east on State Route 13 for 5 miles to Hwy 166, then south (right) onto Hwy 166 for 8.5 miles to Creal Springs Road. Turn south (right) onto Creal Springs Rd., go 3 miles to Recreation Road (#870 on this map). Turn right (west) onto Recreation Road for 2 miles to the Lake of Egypt Camping.

From Paducah, KY:  Travel west on Interstate 24 (I-24) into Illinois for 35 miles to Exit 14. Take Exit 14 and turn right onto Hwy 45 north. Go 5.5 miles north to Tunnel Hill Road, then turn northwest (left) onto Tunnel Hill Rd. for about 1 mile to Creal Springs Rd. Turn right onto Creal Springs Rd. and go 4 miles to Recreation Road (#870 on this map). Turn left(west) onto Recreation Road for 2 miles to the Lake of Egypt Camping Areas.

Large gravel parking area.

Overnight parking is allowed along the side of Forest Service Roads, however do not block road or gates or cause resource damage.

Camping Regulations in General Forest Areas:  
Primitive camping is allowed ¼ mile outside developed areas within Shawnee National Forest. There is no fee for primitive camping and it’s allowed any time of year. Don’t trespass on private land, and do not cut down live trees, shrubs or other vegetation. Camp and wash at least 150 feet from any water source. Pack out your garbage and make sure campfires are completely out.

Campers may camp up to 14-days in one location. Camping is not allowed in the 80 designated natural areas or within 150 feet of lakes and streams or near trails.