Welcome To ShawneeForest.com
Embark on exhilarating solo and family escapades in the Shawnee National Forest! Picture a world where even mud and rocks add an unexpected twist to the adventure. Believe it or not, it happens here! Forget crowded amusement parks or dull museums; enter the National Park in Illinois, where kids revel in outdoor attractions while adults delve into American and pre-America history, untouched nature, and breathtaking views. It’s not just about family picnics; try rock climbing, indulge in top-notch fishing, or experience kayaking and canoeing. Ever dream of staying in a log cabin or sleeping in a real treehouse? Your chance is here; come explore a bit!
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Shawnee Forest
Explore any of these beautiful and majestic hikes in the Shawnee National Park in Illinois for incredible views and getting up close and personal with rock formations and indigenous history or enjoying family-oriented adventures with beautiful waterfalls, natural land bridges, and so much more.
Eastern Shawnee
Eastern Shawnee
Central Shawnee
Eastern Shawnee
Come and walk over or under the only natural land bridge found in Shawnee National Park in Illinois!
Cabins and Lodging in the Shawnee Forest
Bigfoot @ Shawnee Forest?
Be sure to check in with Sassy the Sasquatch when visiting Garden of the Gods at Shawnee Forest! Unlike her big brother, she is very social!
Vineyards and Wine Here?
Shawnee National Forest Maps
GPS Map of the Shawnee (PDF/730k)
This map has GPS coordinates for many of the major attractions within the Shawnee National Forest. It is highly recommended for all tourist to the southern Illinois area.
Pre-Vacation Planning Map (PDF/1024K)
Interactive map listing many of the more popular attractions within the forest and linking to more detail. This map is great to use during the planning phase of vacation or hike to the Southern Illinois area or the Shawnee National Park in Illinois.
Latest From Our Blog
Why is Illinois a Great Spot for Tent Camping?
When most people think about camping, they usually picture mountains or the Pacific Northwest. But honestly, Illinois has some of the top spots for tent campers, too. From peaceful forests to rock formations, this state offers a perfect mix of nature without the...
Garden of the Gods: The Perfect Friends’ Trip Destination in Southern Illinois
Group trips can be hard to plan. Someone wants to chill, someone wants an adventure, and someone always forgets to pack socks. But when the destination has a little bit of everything? That's when a memorable tour happens. And the Garden of the Gods in Southern...
Tent or RV? What are the best camping spots in Shawnee National Forest?
There's nothing like camping in Shawnee National Forest. Tucked away in Southern Illinois, this forest is full of natural beauty—giant rock formations, deep woods, and peaceful lakes. It's the perfect place to escape, relax, and breathe in the fresh air. Whether...