School’s Out, But Learning Doesn’t End
In Southernmost Illinois, summer has a way of turning everyday moments into discovery, where curiosity doesn’t wait for a classroom, and exploration happens naturally
May 13, 2026
Spanning 289,000 acres, Shawnee National Forest is nestled in Southern Illinois between the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. It features strikingly beautiful oak-hickory forests, flourishing wetlands, lush canyons, razorback ridges and unique geological features. All seasons bring a different experience.
Discover activities and events from around the region.
We have a lot of options from Airbnbs to campgrounds, cabins and motels.
Take a sneak peak of what southernmost Illinois has to offer!
Half day and Full day adventures await you!
In Southernmost Illinois, summer has a way of turning everyday moments into discovery, where curiosity doesn’t wait for a classroom, and exploration happens naturally
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
Looking for a romantic escape? Or maybe a girls getaway? Come for the wine, and stay for the experience along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail! Take the Shawnee
The days are growing longer, and the birds are starting to sing again, that means spring is on the way. It’s time to get the family back outside and take time to reconnect with nature
In Southernmost Illinois, summer has a way of turning everyday moments into discovery, where curiosity doesn’t wait for a classroom, and exploration happens naturally
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
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel Get inspired and discover something new in Shawnee Forest Country. Check out our video library and plan your visit today!
OUR GUIDE IS FULL OF REASONS TO VISIT SOUTHERNMOST ILLINOIS! DISCOVER THE SCENIC SHAWNEE NATIONAL FOREST, OUR STATE PARKS, HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS, UNIQUE SHOPS, FABULOUS RESTAURANTS, AND CASINO ACTION!
THERE’S LODGING FOR EVERY TASTE: COZY BED AND BREAKFASTS, CONVENIENT AND COMFORTABLE MOTELS AND HOTELS, PLENTIFUL CAMPSITES AND DELUXE CABINS.
TO REQUEST A GUIDE of SHAWNEE FOREST COUNTRY BE MAILED TO YOU, CLICK HERE.
#yessitb
Subscribe To Our Seasonal Newsletter
Stay in the know for news, events, and adventures in Shawnee Forest Country
