WINTER ESCAPES AND SCENIC LANDSCAPES
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 […]
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 Shawnee National Forest, Giant City State Park is a hidden gem offering […]
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 continues through December, giving you more time to enjoy every flavorful stop […]
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 Park, theMakanda Inn & Cottages, Oak Grove Cabins, as well as suites […]
Follow the Tunnel Hill State Trail
Hike, bike and like the views along 50 miles of the Tunnel Hill Trail through Shawnee Forest Country. The Tunnel Hill State Trail offers bicyclists, hikers, walkers and runners with […]
Take a hike!
Hike more, worry less! Get the family back outside and take time to reconnect with nature and one another. The fresh air is good for your mind, body and soul. […]
Cedar Lake Multi-Use Trails
Cedar Lake has always welcomed visitors to fish and boat within the 1,750-acre reservoir and swim off of Poplar Camp Beach– but with recent improvements to trails and the introduction […]
Chasing Waterfalls in Shawnee Forest Country
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 […]
Go on Adventure for Your Holiday Tree
Enjoying the fresh air while hiking the forest in search of the perfect Christmas tree, can be a wonderful way to begin the holiday season. Create special memories by bringing […]
Set Up Camp Here!
Set up camp in the middle of Shawnee Forest County. We have several options for you. Big rig friendly, Shawnee Forest Campground, Vienna, IL. is in the middle of Southernmost […]