The days are stretching out, the sun lingers longer… It’s the season of slow sips, shared meals, and finding the perfect seat outside.

The flowers are blooming, the days are stretching, and the Shawnee Forest is alive. Spring is coming to Southernmost Illinois. With it comes a need to step outside and explore after being stuck inside allwinter.

After heavy rains, Shawnee Forest Country transforms. Creeks begin to swell, and waterfalls, some gentle and subtle, others dramatic and roaring, start appearing across the forest. If you visit at the right time, it’s easy