Welcome to Southernmost Illinois- with a rich historic
heritage, spectacular national forest, and two great rivers
Visitors can gaze the same day on the mighty Mississippi River near
Wolf Lake and the Ohio River at Golconda or stand beside both great
rivers at the confluence at Cairo.
Southernmost Illinois is unique in its blend of fascinating things to see
and do during a day, a week or a month's vacation.
Cairo, at the southern tip of the state, is rich in Civil War history and
riverlore.Union County has wonderful orchards, wineries, antiquing, picturesque
hamlets and awesome scenery.
A fun cave awaits travelers at Ferne Clyffe State Park and visitors come
from near and far to visit Metropolis, home of Superman and Harrah's
Metropolis Casino.
Ancient trees, magnificent rock formations, and unusual plants and
wildlife await explorers from the Cache River Natural Area to Horseshoe Lake.
Hikers and horseback riders can follow trails that lead to lofty bluffs,
caves and springs throughout Pope County.
Fisherman and hunters will find an abundance of fish and wildlife.
Cyclists will marvel at both the Tunnel Hill Bike Trail in Johnson County
and the 5 mile Horseshoe Lake Hiking/Biking Trail.
Quiet hills and scenic Ohio River towns beckon visitors to Hardin County for a different Kind of vacation.
This corner of Illinois offers a pleasant diversion for travelers seeking the road less traveled featuring the mighty Ohio River and the lush Shawnee National Forest
This guide offers information on the many magnificent sites worth a
visit in southernmost Illinois. We hope you will find this guide helpful and will soon visit the
region’s many recreational and historic treasures.