The days are growing longer, and the birds are starting to sing again, that means spring is on the way. It’s time to get the family back outside and take time to reconnect with nature and one another. There’s no better place to do that than with a spring break adventure to the Shawnee National Forest in Southernmost Illinois, only a few hours from many major metropolitan areas such as Chicago and St. Louis, Memphis, Nashville and Indianapolis.
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. 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 spend your spring break in Shawnee Forest. Families can also enjoy canoeing and kayaking on many of the 11 lakes in the forest, enjoy the miles of equestrian trails, or try your hand at mushroom hunting during what is sure to be a great season.
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.
For more information about hiking and other activities in Shawnee, please check out www.southernmostillinois.com.
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 (www.shawneeforestcampground.com) is a great spring break 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 has 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 spring air, and maybe enjoy a bottle of wine you picked up on the Shawnee Wine Trail.
Larger families might want to check out Rim Rocks Dogwood Cabins. They offer different size cabins at varying price points that fit any budget. The largest can accommodate up to 9 people, and there are friendly animals to visit; a llama, alpaca, miniature cows, donkey’s, and horses as well as goats, chickens/guineas and dogs, most notable is Scout a Great Pyrenees.
While you’re planning your family getaway for this spring break, 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 complete listing of lodging options in the Shawnee National Forest, please visit: https://southernmostillinois.com/places-to-stay/cabins/ or call 618-833-9928.