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. There’s no better place to do that than with an 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 in difficulty to accommodate hikers of all ages and experience. The most popular area for hiking, and the second most photographed site in the state is Garden of the Gods. A short 1/4-mile hike from the parking lot will put you on top of this unique geological structure and offers expansive views of the Illinois wilderness.
Pounds Hollow recreation area is the perfect place to spend a day with the family. The area has a large 25-acre lake, hiking and equestrian trails that take you up into the surrounding hills. Or, let the kids take a swim or fish from the convenient pier. Rent a kayak to paddle around the lake from the Garden of the Gods Outpost.. There are also picnic tables available for a lunch in the trees.
Those looking for a longer hike can take on the 3-mile Little Grand Canyon Trail that winds through the base of the canyon along the towering, 300-foot bluffs.
Rim Rock, Millstone Bluff, Sand Cave, Burden Falls, and Jackson Falls are just a few of the other areas to hike and enjoy. Shawnee National Forest has a hike or natural wonder that any member of the family won’t soon forget.
Activities for the Whole Family
Hiking isn’t the only way to enjoy the Shawnee Forest. Families can also enjoy canoeing and kayaking on many of the 11 lakes in the forest, enjoy the miles of equestrian trails, with horse and pony rental at Giant City Stables or Lake Glendale Stables.
Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour offers a 3 hour adventure through the trees with 8 zip lines and 2 suspension bridges.
Also, nature and wine lovers alike can all agree that the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail is a must visit. This 35-mile stretch of highway 127 and 51 delights visitors, taking them over rolling hills through the Shawnee National Forest and delivering them to any of the 11 award-winning wineries along the way. Families traveling along the trail can stop for a picnic or visit one of the specialty shops, or take a scenic drive up Bald Knob mountain.
Camping
As the sun starts to set, there are many places to gather the family around the campfire to share stories, talk about your favorite of the day’s events, and roast a marshmallow or two. If you’re looking for a night under the stars or full RV hook-ups, the Shawnee Forest Campground is a great home base. This campground is close to many Shawnee hiking trails and also has two miles of walking paths that are wrapped around the two large ponds, perfect for catch-and-release fishing.
Cabins
For a rustic cabin getaway, there are a few options. Shawnee Forest Cabins have fully furnished one and two-bedroom cabins where the whole family can cozy up for a night’s sleep before tomorrow’s adventure begins. Some of the cabins even have hot tubs, an ideal place to relax and take in the fresh air and starry nights, and maybe enjoy a bottle of wine you picked up on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. You may even want to try to stay a night in a Tree house!
Larger families, or those traveling with a dog might want to check out Rim Rock’s Dogwood Cabins which is pet friendly and has varying price points. The largest can accommodate up to 9 people. While you’re planning your family getaway, consider Shawnee National Forest. Hike, paddle, swim, drink, eat, and enjoy quality family time. There’s something for everyone in the Shawnee National Forest at a price that makes sense.
For a list of lodging options in the Shawnee National Forest, please visit: https://southernmostillinois.com or call 1-800-C-IT-HERE