Shawnee Forest Country

America’s Hidden Wilderness

Ancient bluffs, crystal springs, rolling vineyards, and small-town warmth — all waiting in Southernmost Illinois.

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Roam for Gnomes at Giant City State Park

Roam for Gnomes on a Winter Adventure at Giant City State Park, Makanda IL. Tucked in the stunning

Cozy Up to the Southern Illinois Coffee Trail

The coffee trail is back by popular demand, and the trail runs even longer, starting in August and

Makanda: Gateway to Giant City and Outdoor Adventure | Easily fill a 3 or 4 day getaway! 

The Makanda area offers a variety of unique lodgingoptions, a small sampling includes cabins in Giant City State

Sip & Savor along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail

Looking for a girls getaway? Or maybe a romantic escape? Come for the wine, and stay for the

The Smartest Way to book a Southern Illinois Stay: Book Direct

Planning a getaway along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, or the breathtaking trails of the Shawnee National Forest,

Follow the Tunnel Hill State Trail

Hike, bike and like the views along 50 miles of the Tunnel Hill Trail through Shawnee Forest Country.

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Make room for an unexpected detour. Browse trails, local makers, scenic drives, restaurants, and seasonal inspiration in the official Southernmost Illinois Visitor Guide.
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Seasonal Spotlight

Every Season Tells a Different Story

Spring wildflowers carpet the forest floor. Summer brings cool swimming holes and starlit skies. Autumn ignites the bluffs in gold and crimson. Winter reveals frozen waterfalls and silent trails.


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Discover the Region

Ancient Sandstone Bluffs

Hike through towering sandstone formations, discover hidden canyons, and stand atop Pine Hills for views that stretch to the horizon.

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Wineries & Breweries

Shawnee Hills Wine Trail

Wind through rolling hills dotted with award-winning wineries. Sip, savor, and meet the makers behind Southern Illinois’ most celebrated vintages.
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Parks & Wildlife

Nature’s Hidden Gems

Crystal-clear swimming holes, ancient rock shelters, and miles of trail through one of the Midwest’s most beautiful natural areas.
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Experiences Worth the Drive

From sandstone bluffs to vineyard valleys, Southernmost Illinois rewards every kind of traveler.

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See the forest, waterways, wineries, and road trips of Southernmost Illinois in motion.

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Drift Along the Cache River
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The Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau promotes travel and tourism across the Shawnee Forest Country region.

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  • P.O. Box 378 Anna, Illinois 62906

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