Looking for a girls getaway? Or maybe a romantic escape? Come for the wine, and stay for the experience along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail! Explore more than just our wines. Set in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest, the trail offers sweeping panoramic views, a relaxing lack of Read more
Planning a getaway along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, or the breathtaking trails of the Shawnee National Forest, or maybe an escape to the tranquil waters of the Lake of Egypt? Before you head over to third-party travel platforms, there is a better way to book your stay. Try to Read more
The coffee trail is back by popular demand, and the trail runs even longer, starting in August and continues through December, giving you more time to enjoy every flavorful stop along the way! There is nothing like a refreshing ice coffee after a scenic hike or sipping hot coffee on Read more
The heat of the summer brings peach time to Southernmost Illinois. Peaches provide a bounty of sweetness all Summer long. There are several stops to consider when journeying through #ShawneeForestCounty. the orchards, farmers markets, wineries, and restaurants are taking full advantage of what the in season fruit offers. Ramble over Read more
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. Spring break offers the perfect opportunity to reconnect with the great outdoors. If you’retraveling with Read more
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 to spend an entire day, or even a full weekend, chasing waterfalls throughout Southernmost Illinois Read more
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 and one another. There’s no better place to do that than with a spring break Read more
Winter is a great time to enjoy the slower, quieter side of Shawnee Forest country. The cooler temperatures mean no bugs and the trees are bare, allowing you to see much further into the forests. Bluffs hidden behind the summer foliage emerge dramatically into sight. The cooler temperatures mean no Read more