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# ShawneeForest.com: Shawnee National Forest Information

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://www.shawneeforest.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [What Makes Turkey Hunting in Shawnee a True Public Land Adventure?](https://www.shawneeforest.com/turkey-hunting-shawnee-public-land-adventure/): If you've spent any time around turkey hunters in Illinois, you've probably heard about Shawnee. Not in a loud, over-hyped way, more like a quiet mention from someone who has been there and keeps going back. At over 280,000 acres of public hunting land in Illinois spread across 13 Southern Illinois counties, it's the kind of place that earns its reputation without needing to advertise.
- [Sunrise vs. Sunset Hikes at Shawnee National Forest: Which One Wins?](https://www.shawneeforest.com/hiking-trails-illinois-shawnee-sunrise-vs-sunset/): There's no wrong time to hike, but there are better ones. Anyone who's spent time on hiking trails in Illinois knows that the experience can vary a lot depending on the season, the weather, and even the time of day. Sunrise and sunset in a place like Shawnee National Forest hit just different. They both have something going for them, but not in the same ways. So let's get into it.
- [Which Wineries Are Part of The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail?  ](https://www.shawneeforest.com/shawnee-hills-wine-trail-wineries-guide/): The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail is made up of eleven locally loved wineries, all located within the Shawnee Hills American Viticultural Area. They’re close enough to visit several in one day, but different enough that each stop feels like a new experience.
- [Shawnee National Forest Lakes: Finding Your Ideal Boating Season](https://www.shawneeforest.com/shawnee-national-forest-lakes-best-boating-season-guide/): Let’s be honest, life is busy. Work emails, deadlines, notifications, you know the drill. Sometimes you just need to escape somewhere that feels like it has nothing to do with Wi-Fi, traffic, or your inbox. That’s when you can visit the top boating spots of Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois.
- [Camping at Pounds Hollow Recreation Area: Tips and Reservations](https://www.shawneeforest.com/pounds-hollow-camping-guide/): If you just need to get out of the house, leave the notifications behind, step out of the car, and hear nothing but the wind in the trees and the splash of water–that’s exactly what Pounds Hollow Recreation Area in southern Illinois offers. Nestled in the Shawnee National Forest, this little gem of a lake is surrounded by forests that feel endless. It’s the kind of place where you can swim, hike, fish, paddle, or just sit on the sand and stare at the water for as long as you want.
- [A Simple Guide to Pomona Natural Bridge Tour](https://www.shawneeforest.com/pomona-natural-bridge-tour-guide/): Some hikes are all about endurance. Others are about discovery. The Pomona Natural Bridge in Southern Illinois falls into that second category. It’s not long or exhausting, but it’s packed with moments that make you stop, look, and just enjoy where you are.
- [Which Lakes In Southern Illinois Are Best For Combining Camping, Hiking, And Water Recreation?](https://www.shawneeforest.com/southern-illinois-lakes-camping-hiking-recreation/): Imagine this: You wake up in your tent, the smell of fresh pine in the air, a cup of coffee in hand, birds singing around you. You step outside, and there it is—the lake, calm and sparkling under the morning sun. That’s Southern Illinois.
- [Why Is The Smithland Pool Considered One Of The Best Fishing Areas On The Ohio River?](https://www.shawneeforest.com/why-smithland-pool-best-fishing-areas-on-ohio-river/): If you’ve ever been down in Southern Illinois, you know there’s something special about its rivers. They’re not just waterways—they’re destinations. And if you’re into fishing, the Smithland Pool on the Ohio River is one of those spots that sticks in your memory.
- [Why Plan a Horseback Riding Trip in Shawnee National Forest, Illinois?](https://www.shawneeforest.com/plan-horse-riding-trip-shawnee-il/): Some places make you breathe differently — slower, deeper, easier. Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois is one of them. The scenic horseback riding trails in Shawnee National Forest, Illinois, roll through quiet woods, open fields, and cliffs that seem to rise right out of time. It’s peaceful here. You hear birds, water, wind — and the steady sound of hooves on dirt.
- [Why Is Shawnee National Forest a Must-Visit for RV Campers?](https://www.shawneeforest.com/shawnee-rv-camping-riverfront-sites/): Imagine this: you wake up in your RV to the sounds of birds chirping, a gentle breeze through the trees, and sunlight peeking in through the window. You step outside, stretch, and take a deep breath of the crisp, pine-scented air. This is RV camping, Shawnee National Forest, Illinois—adventure without giving up comfort.
- [What Are The Best Upland Game & Bird Hunting Locations in Illinois?](https://www.shawneeforest.com/upland-game-hunting-locations-il/): If you're the kind of person who finds peace in the woods, who's happiest waking up before sunrise with gear in hand, there's a good chance Shawnee National Forest has been calling your name. It's not just a hunting destination—it's a place where you can still feel truly connected to the land.
- [How to Plan a Memorable Trip to Cave-in-Rock State Park, Illinois?](https://www.shawneeforest.com/plan-cave-in-rock-state-park-trip/): If you’ve never heard of Cave In Rock State Park, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Tucked along the Ohio River in Southern Illinois, it’s one of those places you almost stumble upon. But once you’re there, it sticks with you.
- [Why is Illinois a Great Spot for Tent Camping?](https://www.shawneeforest.com/why-illinois-great-spot-for-tent-camping/): If you’re interested in tent camping near Shawnee National Forest — one of the best areas in Illinois for nature lovers — you’re in luck. Several great campgrounds welcome tents and small trailers, and all of them offer easy access to hiking trails, lakes, and some amazing scenery.
- [Garden of the Gods: The Perfect Friends’ Trip Destination in Southern Illinois](https://www.shawneeforest.com/garden-of-the-gods-perfect-friends-trip-destination/): 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 Illinois is exactly that kind of place.
- [Tent or RV? What are the best camping spots in Shawnee National Forest?](https://www.shawneeforest.com/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. 
- [Why Do Campers Love Staying At Oak Point Campground?](https://www.shawneeforest.com/why-campers-love-oak-point-campground/): Read on to know the compelling reasons why Lake Glendale camping is a favourite among campers.
- [Top 4 Primitive Camping Spots in Shawnee National Forest](https://www.shawneeforest.com/primitive-camping-shawnee-national-forest-top-spots/): With hundreds of acres of public land, Shawnee National Forest is one of the best places in Illinois for primitive backpacking and dispersed camping. Whether you're hiking for a weekend or just want a quiet lakeside spot to relax, it lets you enjoy nature on your terms.
- [Horse Camping Adventures in Shawnee National Forest: Trails & Tips](https://www.shawneeforest.com/horse-camping-shawnee-national-forest-trails-tips/): If you love horses and the outdoors, horse camping in Shawnee National Forest is something you should experience at least once. This beautiful forest in southern Illinois is full of peaceful trails, quiet campsites, and wide-open spaces where you and your horse can relax and explore.
- [Top 5 Campsites Near Shawnee National Forest in Illinois](https://www.shawneeforest.com/top-5-campsites-shawnee-national-forest/): For those who enjoy the outdoors, Shawnee National Forest is unquestionably a beautiful location. The 280,000 acres of lush forests, sparkling lakes, and dramatic rock formations are something more beautiful than you have ever heard or read about. Whether you're a camper or a first-timer, Shawnee National Forest has something for everyone. But camping is the real fun here. From primitive tent camping to RV sites and even horse camping, you can find everything. 
- [Complete Guide to Camping at Cave In Rock State Park](https://www.shawneeforest.com/cave-in-rock-state-park-camping-guide/): Cave In Rock State Park is an ideally located, spectacular destination along the Ohio River in southern Illinois. If you have been looking for a great place for camping and outdoor fun, visit this place without a second thought!  Now, what can travellers do here? Enjoy nature, explore history, or just relax, soaking up the beautiful views. Read on to know about camping at Cave In Rock, plus some more exciting things to do nearby!
- [How to Plan a Wine Lovers’ Weekend on the Southern Illinois Wine Trails](https://www.shawneeforest.com/weekend-southern-illinois-wine-trails/): Are you a wine lover planning a trip to Southern Illinois? Then this post is for you! The tour will take you through some rugged hills and lush forests, where you relish an authentic wine culture in the heart of Southern Illinois. The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail in Southern Illinois awaits seasoned wine connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike to taste some of the finest wines, great food, and unmatched adventure. The vineyards offer an extraordinary combination of wines, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality.
- [6 Reasons to Explore The Little Grand Canyon](https://www.shawneeforest.com/6-reasons-to-explore-little-grand-canyon-illinois/): If you have been planning for the best hikes in Shawnee National Forest, this is your call. Every year, tourists from all over the world take in the beauty of the Little Grand Canyon. Standing among the on-lookers, you, too, will be taken aback by what lies before you. From breathtaking views of bluffs, waterfalls, rock formations, and rock windows, there's so much waiting to be discovered!  
- [How Do You Plan a Hunting Trip to the Shawnee National Forest?](https://www.shawneeforest.com/how-do-you-plan-a-hunting-trip-to-the-shawnee-national-forest/): If you're planning a hunting trip to the Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois anytime soon, you're in for a rewarding treat. Learn why the Shawnee National Forest is the perfect hunting spot and how to plan your first hunting adventure in this diverse wilderness.
- [What to Pack for Garden of the Gods Camping: A Complete Checklist](https://www.shawneeforest.com/packing-checklist-garden-of-the-gods-camping/): Shawnee Forest is the heaven on earth, situated in southern Illinois. When you explore this destination, you will also come across the Garden of the Gods, a scenic and breathtaking spot where whatever rock formation you see is not man-made but nature-made. Garden of the Gods is the perfect getaway for a weekend trip with your friends and family. 
- [Top 5 Southern Illinois Lakes For Bass Fishing](https://www.shawneeforest.com/5-southern-illinois-lakes-for-bass-fishing/): Southwest Illinois has some of the best lakes in the Midwest for bass fishing. With its beautiful scenery, different water bodies, and healthy fish populations, this area is a secret gem for those wanting to go for bigmouth bass fishing in Southern Illinois . Get your fishing gear ready, and let us explore the best lakes in Illinois for bass fishing.
- [Hiking Trails in Illinois You Don’t Want to Miss](https://www.shawneeforest.com/hiking-trails-illinois-you-dont-want-to-miss/): Let’s uncover the best hiking trails from all corners of the state. These will help you experience the wild side of Illinois!
- [5 Caving Adventures In Illinois You Can’t Miss](https://www.shawneeforest.com/5-caving-adventures-in-illinois/): If you love caving, then this post is for you! Caves are beautiful and mysterious places that fascinate travellers of all ages. Caves in Illinois have something to offer everyone – from the kids with a sense of adventure to the oldest person who enjoys quiet.
- [What Makes the Horse Riding Experience in Illinois So Popular?](https://www.shawneeforest.com/why-horse-riding-in-illinois-is-popular/): Located on the southern side of Illinois, Shawnee Forest is a heaven on earth. While local visitors enjoy these captivating scenarios while trekking, many tourists are encouraged to experience Shawnee Forest’s horseback riding in Illinois. It is one of the most fulfilling moments and allows you to enjoy scenic views in the most adventurous way possible. 
- [The Best Time to Camp in Shawnee National Forest: Seasonal Tips](https://www.shawneeforest.com/best-time-to-camp-shawnee-national-forest/): Want to know what it's like to camp in the great outdoors? Go camping in Shawnee National Forest, which defies Midwest stereotypes. Sitting at the foot of Illinois, it offers a chance to see wooded hollows, undulating hills, stone escarpments, and diverse wildlife!
- [Southern Illinois Wine Trails for Beginners: Tips for First-Time Visitors](https://www.shawneeforest.com/southern-illinois-wine-trail-tips/): Look no further than the Southern Illinois Wine Trails for wine lovers planning your next adventure. For both wine enthusiasts and casual tourists, the wineries in the southern IL, which are perfectly located in the center of the Shawnee National Forest, provide an immersive and unforgettable experience.  
- [Discover the Best of Southern Illinois: A Weekend Wine Trail Guide to Top Wineries](https://www.shawneeforest.com/southern-illinois-weekend-wine-trail-guide/): If you're planning a weekend getaway with stunning views, great wine, and fun things to do, the Southern Illinois Wine Trail Southern region is the perfect place. This beautiful area has amazing wineries and scenic hills and forests, making it a great spot for both wine lovers and nature fans. 
- [The Ultimate Guide to Primitive Camping in Shawnee National Forest](https://www.shawneeforest.com/ultimate-guide-primitive-camping-shawnee-national-forest/): If you love camping, Shawnee has a little bit of everything—from spots for RVs and tents to special areas for horse camping. But if you're looking for a real outdoor adventure, primitive camping (also called dispersed camping) is the way to go.
- [Shawnee National Forest: Your Go-To Guide for RV Camping Adventures](https://www.shawneeforest.com/shawnee-national-forest-your-go-to-guide-for-rv-camping-adventures/): If you are looking for a place for an awesome RV camping trip, check out Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois! This beautiful place has a lot to offer, with different camping options and tons of fun activities. It’s perfect for families, adventurers, and anyone who loves nature. Whether you have a plan for a weekend trip or a longer road adventure, Shawnee National Forest has something for you. 
- [Top 5 Must-See Rock Formations On Your Garden of the Gods Camping Trip](https://www.shawneeforest.com/must-see-rock-formations-garden-of-the-gods-camping/): Nestled within Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois, the Garden of the Gods is a captivating landscape. Formed by over 320 million years of wind and water erosion, it is the best option for Garden of the Gods camping destination.  
- [Must-Have Gear for Hiking the Little Grand Canyon Trail](https://www.shawneeforest.com/must-have-gear-hiking-little-grand-canyon-trail/): The Little Grand Canyon walking trail offers a rewarding experience with its breathtaking views and unique geological structure. The trails are a great way for nature lovers to connect with it up and close. Hiking involves a lot of walking as well as a bit of climbing and you will need the best gears to make it enjoyable. 
- [Guided Hiking Tours in Shawnee National Forest: What to Expect](https://www.shawneeforest.com/shawnee-national-forest-hiking-tours-guide/): Exploring the Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois is a great dream for outdoor lovers. Known for its diverse landscapes, many animals, and beautiful nature, this area has some of the best hiking trails in Illinois. 
- [Exploring the Little Grand Canyon Walking Trail](https://www.shawneeforest.com/exploring-little-grand-canyon-walking-trail/): Little Grand Canyon in Shawnee National Forest is one of the most loved places to go on a hike in Southern Illinois thus far. While it may not seem to be much at the beginning of the trail, the Little Grand Canyon is a must and a hike you will not soon forget. The trail is a 3.6-mile loop, which you can break up into a section to overlook, but the 3-mile loop makes this trail amazing.
- [Ziplines in Shawnee Forest](https://www.shawneeforest.com/ziplines-in-shawnee-forest/): Have you ever wanted to fly? Now, you can. Fly through the Shawnee Forest Canopy at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour with Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tours, an exhilarating Zipline experience that gives you an aerial view of the beautifully diverse Shawnee Forest, the only National Forest in Illinois.
- [Shawnee Forest eBiking](https://www.shawneeforest.com/shawnee-forest-ebiking/): When eBiking in Southern Illinois, you will find yourself deeply immersed in the region’s magnificent scenery. Shawnee Hills eBike Rentals, located in Jonesboro, Illinois, along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, makes the long-lost joy of cycling more accessible than ever with pedal-assist power eBikes.
- [Mom’s Guide to the Shawnee National Forest](https://www.shawneeforest.com/moms-guide-shawnee-national-forest/): And if you’re planning a trip to Illinois’s beautiful Shawnee National Forest – a 280,000-acre home to waterfalls, unusual sandstone rock formations, swimming holes and trees lush with leaves that will help everyone keep their cool on a hot summer day or will dazzle with bursts of color in autumn - we’ve got you covered.

## Pages
- [Sitemap](https://www.shawneeforest.com/sitemap/)
- [Sand Cave](https://www.shawneeforest.com/sand-cave/): Check out Sand Cave, a little known historical gem of Shawnee National Forest! Take in a unique sampling of the original landscape of Illinois, while hiking an easy walking trail to what is known as the largest sandstone cave in North America! The mouth of Sand Cave is nearly 30 feet wide and set into the rock approximately 100 feet constituting a jaw-dropping experience for any hiker or equestrian.
- [Millstone Bluff](https://www.shawneeforest.com/millstone-bluff/): Experience prehistoric Illinois on your hike at Millstone Bluff. This unique peak into a prehistoric Native American community offers more variety than any other archaeological dig in Southern Illinois. This Mississippian dwelling area was inhabited between 1492, when Columbus “discovered” the New World, and 1540, the year Hernando De Soto began his trek through the Southeastern United States.
- [Jackson Falls](https://www.shawneeforest.com/jackson-falls/): Want to add extreme sports to your natural adventure at Shawnee Forest? Hike the trails at Jackson Falls Recreation Area and go rappelling, rock climbing, or bouldering at an array of over 60 distinct climbing areas all while experiencing some of the most beautiful sites Shawnee National Forest has to offer.
- [Iron Furnace](https://www.shawneeforest.com/iron-furnace/): Enjoy a picnic lunch under the wooden pavilion, play in the brook, or peak into historical American industry with a visit to Illinois Iron Furnace Historical Site, the last iron furnace structure in existence in the state of Illinois!
- [Burden Falls](https://www.shawneeforest.com/burden-falls/): Need some vacation shots of a truly unique waterfall or would you rather go hunting for wildlife in an area with as little human impact as possible? Experience Burden Falls Wilderness Area! This 3,775 acre state designated wilderness area is comprised mainly of second-growth hardwood forests with a variety of tree species including blackjack oak, post oak, and white oak interspersed with various pine forest plantations and hosts stunning waterfalls at its southern border.
- [Bell Smith Springs](https://www.shawneeforest.com/bell-smith-springs/): Beautiful view of the rock formations that span the waterways of Bell Smith Springs
- [Rim Rock Trail Illinois](https://www.shawneeforest.com/rim-rock-trail-illinois/): View magnificent scenery from the top of Rim Rock! Known for their outstanding floral beauty, the upper and lower trails are flush with woodland flowers each Spring! The trail at Rim Rock is so beautiful that it was designated a National Recreation Trail in 1980 and makes a perfect setting for picnicking or hiking. However, the beauty here is not only found at surface level; Rim Rock has deep connections with American history!
- [Pounds Hollow Lake](https://www.shawneeforest.com/pounds-hollow-lake/): Do you and your family enjoy boating, hiking, or swimming? Experience all this and more at Pounds Hollow Recreation Area! Pounds Hollow offers a variety of outdoor activities that are sure to appeal to the entire family. The twenty-five acre lake surround thousands of scenic woodland creates a plethora of natural diversions. Finished in the 1940’s by the Civilian Conservation Corps Men (CCC), the lake at Pounds Hollow and the surrounding trails continue to provide plenty of activities for an entire weekend, or you can pack it all into a day!
- [Big Foot](https://www.shawneeforest.com/big-foot/): “It was actually my wife’s idea,” says DeVore, who — together with his wife Carrie — owns Shawnee Forest Cabins, a popular place to stay for hunters, hikers and others drawn to the natural beauty of Southern Illinois. “She came across a small Big Foot statue for sale awhile back. The kids loved it, and she said, ‘we need one of these at the cabins.’” And with that, the idea for Sassy was born.
- [Hotels & Motels](https://www.shawneeforest.com/hotels-motels/): If camping and cabins are not your thing, there are a variety of hotel and motel options in Southern Illinois that give you the convenience of modern day living and still offer short drives to some of the most beautiful locations in Shawnee National Forest.
- [Camping](https://www.shawneeforest.com/camping/): The Shawnee National Forest offers visitors over 280,000 acres of prairies, rivers, meadows, lakes, ponds, and waterfalls, perfect for hiking, fishing, horseback riding, swimming, and more. Visitors to the park will enjoy the variety of camping and lodging options available including primitive camping, RV camping in Illinois, and horse camping, with many locations near the famed Garden of the Gods, the second most photographed spot in all of Illinois.
- [Cabins and B&B’s](https://www.shawneeforest.com/cabins-and-bbs/): Offering many of the amenities of home and a private and unique glimpse into the Shawnee National Forest. Enjoy evening campfires and scenic views in the heart of nature with a variety of options cabins near Shawnee National Forest, including charming treehouses for a truly elevated experience. Embrace the tranquility and natural beauty of Southern Illinois with our distinctive accommodations.
- [Ferne Clyffe – Waterfall](https://www.shawneeforest.com/ferne-clyffe-waterfall/): The waterfall hike at Ferne Clyffe (Fern Cliff) State Park deserves to be on the must see list for every visitor to Southern Illinois! Although I’ve lived in the area for the past 14 years, I am just now getting around to doing it. What a mistake I’ve made. The park offers all types of adventures from backpacking and hiking to camping and fishing on Ferne Lake. There are a lot of pavilions with playgrounds that are all very well kept, not to mention there is a waterfall in Shawnee Forest with climbing opportunities! Ferne (“Cliff”) State Park is an ideal place to visit during your Shawnee Forest adventure in Southern Illinois.
- [Pomona Natural Bridge](https://www.shawneeforest.com/pomona-natural-bridge/): The Pomona Natural Bridge located in Pomona Illinois is a great quick hike for all ages. This hidden hiking treasure is a 15-30 minute drive from several Southern Illinois towns such as Carbondale, Cobden, Alto Pass, Murphysboro and Anna.
- [Heron Pond](https://www.shawneeforest.com/heron-pond/): Located in Little Black Slough Nature Preserve is a wonderful piece of wetlands landscape unique to Southern Illinois: Heron Pond, located near Belnap, Illinois, and part of the Cache River State Natural Area. Heron Pond is home to over 100 endangered and threatened plant and animal species on the Ohio River flood plain. These wetland locations are an important resource for migrating birds and other unique plants and animals and are a prime location to view nature at it’s finest.
- [Little Grand Canyon](https://www.shawneeforest.com/little-grand-canyon/): Forget what you've heard about Illinois being nothing but flat prairie land. Tucked away along southern Illinois' scenic Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, the Little Grand Canyon trail offers a 365 foot climb from the canyon floor and a panoramic view of the Big Muddy River and the Mississippi floodplain.
- [Cave in Rock](https://www.shawneeforest.com/cave-in-rock/): Among these attractions stands the historic cavern of Cave In Rock State Park. Acquired by the State of Illinois in 1929, the popular cavern is located in the village of Cave In Rock . Burrowed out by the winds and water of time, the white limestone shines out along the shoreline of the Ohio with an array of flora and fauna. Each year thousands of visitors, both from across the US and the local area, walk the gravel trail down to the Ohio’s edge and stand in awe of the massive opening leading into the mouth of the limestone cathedral.
- [Garden of the Gods](https://www.shawneeforest.com/garden-of-the-god/): Looking for spectacular views with a short hike among some of the most unique rock formations in the United States? Look no further than Garden of the Gods in Southern Illinois. The most popular hike in the Shawnee National Forest, Garden of the Gods gives tourists amazing insight into the geologic structure of Southern Illinois and a view that stretches for miles high over the pristine hills of Shawnee Forest.
- [Blog](https://www.shawneeforest.com/blog/): Explore the hidden gems of Southern Illinois with the Shawnee National Forest Blog. From breathtaking hikes to unique wildlife and local attractions, we bring the beauty of nature right to your screen. Stay updated, explore, and plan your next adventure in the heart of Shawnee!
- [Home](https://www.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!
- [Wine](https://www.shawneeforest.com/wine-trail/): Spend your afternoon, or the whole weekend, unwinding and chatting over a glass of locally prepared wine with southern Illinois wine trails. Feel free to enjoy a quiet stroll through a vineyard, or attend one of the many festivals offered nearly year-round at the wineries. Music festivals, local artisans, and even grape-stomping are featured activities of wineries in southern IL! Enjoy the good life taking in the breathtaking scenery of Southern Illinois, while visiting the region’s booming wine industry.
- [Boating](https://www.shawneeforest.com/boating/): With so many unique waterways to experience, Shawnee Forest is one of the most varied and adventure-filled locations for boating in Southern Illinois. Southern Illinois marinas at some of Shawnee Forest’s premiere lakes and river passages offer a variety of services such as docking, boat rentals, full service stations, and outfitting equipment and supplies. Engage with local culture by night and experience amazing boating opportunities by day when you visit any of the water-filled attractions in Shawnee National Forest.
- [Horseback Riding](https://www.shawneeforest.com/horseback-riding/): Horseback riding in the Shawnee National Forest is a unique adventure that you won’t want to miss out on. With miles and miles of equestrian trails, riders come from all over the country to enjoy the scenic woodlands while camping and horseback riding in Illinois.
- [Lodging](https://www.shawneeforest.com/lodging/): From cabins and camping in Shawnee Forest to Bed & Breakfasts and Hotels in the small towns of Southern Illinois, there’s a wide range of lodging options. Whether you prefer rustic accommodations or modern amenities, you'll find the perfect place to stay. Shawnee National Forest offers a variety of choices to meet your needs during your visit. The area’s accommodations cater to different preferences and budgets, making it easier to enjoy everything the forest has to offer. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in nature or relax in comfort, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few suggestions for where to stay. These lodging options in Southern Illinois will help make your time in Shawnee National Forest even more memorable.If visiting for the 4th of July, Labor Day or hunting season, book early. While it’s not impossible to get lodging, it is more difficult. Keep in mind the Shawnee National Forest is spacious, so look for lodging close to major highways and other amenities.
- [Hunting](https://www.shawneeforest.com/hunting/): The Shawnee National Forest is the single largest publicly owned land in Illinois and is by far the most popular hunting destination in the entire state. With an astoundingly large size of over 280,000 acres over 200,000 football fields, this Southern Illinois forest sprawls across 13 sparsely-populated counties which are home to over 146 miles of rivers and more than 200 individual lakes. This count doesn’t include the massive Ohio River and Mississippi River that dominates the forest’s borders. It’s no wonder that this public hunting land in Illinois attracts hunters from all over the country who are looking for prize game harvests and getting face-to-face with the primal origins of man.
- [Fishing](https://www.shawneeforest.com/fishing/): Travel a large waterway that courses through six states, including Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, and West Virginia. Southern Illinois offers a truly unique Ohio River experience, where the natural beauty of the river meets a wealth of outdoor adventures. Catch a wide assortment of over 150 different species of river fish native to the area, making it a perfect destination for fishing enthusiasts. Explore the spectacular region through your favorite activities like boating, kayaking, and hiking along scenic trails. To make your visit even more special and memorable, book a cozy, quiet cabin rental near the Ohio River. Relax and unwind in comfort while enjoying the peaceful surroundings of this remarkable area.
- [Hiking](https://www.shawneeforest.com/hiking-trails-illinois/): Hikers and backpackers come from far and wide to get the chance to see the myriad of wildlife and beautiful views available in Southern Illinois’ Shawnee National Forest. From avid hikers that want to hike the extensive River to River Trail to less experienced hikers who want to pack a variety of hiking experiences into a weekend, the hiking trails in Illinois have everything you could possibly want spread across the beautiful rolling hills of Southern Illinois.