EXPLORE SHAWNEE FOREST COUNTRY

ROMANTIC STAYS IN SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Starscapes in the Shawnee National Forest are brilliant, breathtaking, and a new experience for many city dwellers. They are also very romantic, as are the canyons and flora that abound, which makes this a great

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Summer Adventures in Shawnee Forest Country

With its breathtaking natural beauty and unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation, a trip to the Shawnee National Forest offers a variety of trails and attractions. Garden of the Gods and Rim Rock/Pounds Hollow Recreational area

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GET OUR VISITORS GUIDE

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.

Download our guide and start planning your adventure!

To request a guide to Shawnee Forest Country be mailed to you, CLICK HERE.

PLAN YOUR STAY

Plan your trip to one of the most established wine regions in the Midwest, featuring award-winning wineries along a 40-mile trail through the beautiful Shawnee National Forest. Visit www.shawneewinetrail.com to learn more.

Forest path

Great family adventures happen in the Shawnee National Forest! With dozens of state parks and a lush national forest, Illinois is an outdoors dream. Explore hiking and biking trails, kayak along the rivers, or stay in a secluded forest cabin.

Fort statue

Visit the many historic sites in Southernmost Illinois, from interactive sites like Fort Massac, to hiking through ancient rock formations or kayaking along giant Cypress trees. Experience jaw-dropping natural beauty and our deep history.

Located near Carbondale, the Southern Illinois Golf Trail rests in the beautiful Shawnee National Forest area and features five courses that offer visitors the rare chance to play golf year-round. The trail offers golf options for both serious and casual golfers.

The Creole House Hot Tub_Sunsets_Rocky Comfort Cabins

A quiet cabin in the woods; complete with a fireplace and quick access to the Shawnee Wine Trail. There are dozens of options located between the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers peppered throughout the Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois. 

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Find the perfect piece from one of countless art galleries in Illinois, including paintings, prints, pottery, hand-made jewelry, blown glass and sculptures. Explore the rich culture of Southernmost Illinois perfectly captured in a work of art.

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