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The Makanda area offers a variety of unique lodgingoptions, a small sampling includes cabins in Giant City State Park, theMakanda Inn & Cottages, Oak Grove Cabins, as well as suites at Blue Sky Vineyards   With its breathtaking natural beauty and unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation, a trip to Giant City State Park and the Makanda area offers loads of fun. From camping and horseback riding to fishing and rappelling, it’s an outdoor lover’s paradise. 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 book direct with the property, or through a local property management site like sivr.rentals.  You could unlock exclusive savings, personalized support, and a seamless travel 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 a chilly day.  Discover the Southern Illinois Coffee Trail,  featuring over 60 different coffee shops spread over 450 miles. The trail is officially live from Read more

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 family, friends, or solo, Southernmost Illinois has something for everyone. Whether it’s a quick getaway or a full week of exploring, Southernmost Illinois invite visitors 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 and Shawnee Forest Country. Some are just a short walk from the trailhead, while others require a little more effort. Either way, every waterfall you 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 adventure to the Shawnee National Forest in Southernmost Illinois. Hiking Take time to enjoy one of the many beautiful hikes in the forest which range Read more