Garden of the Gods: Illinois's Natural Masterpiece
Explore dramatic rock formations and panoramic views at Illinois's Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest. A natural wonder!
Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest is a stunning recreation area featuring unique sandstone rock formations and panoramic views. Hike the short Observation Trail for iconic sights like Camel Rock, or explore longer trails through the surrounding wilderness.
A brief summary to Garden of the Gods
- Herod, Illinois, 62947, US
- +1618-658-2111
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the day or on weekdays to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons in April and October.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as some trails can be uneven and rocky.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking longer trails.
- Be aware of your surroundings and stay on marked trails, as there are steep cliffs and venomous snakes in the area.
- Pack out all trash and dispose of it properly to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
Getting There
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Driving
From Harrisburg, Illinois, take Highway 145 south for 5 miles, then turn onto Highway 34 south for 10 miles. Turn east onto Karbers Ridge Road for 2.5 miles, then north onto Forest Road/Garden of the Gods Road for 1.5 miles. Finally, turn left onto the Garden of the Gods Entrance Road. Parking is free in one of the two large lots serving the Observation Trail. Additional parking is available at the Backpacker's Parking Lot and Hitching Post Trailhead.
Discover more about Garden of the Gods
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Garden of the Gods Outpost
3.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Garden of the Gods Outpost, a perfect blend of nature, dining, and shopping in Illinois.
Martha Furnace (National Historic Site)
13.4 km
Discover Illinois' industrial heritage at Martha Furnace, a preserved 19th-century iron production site nestled in a peaceful, wooded setting.
Southeastern Illinois College
17.0 km
Southeastern Illinois College: Education, arts, and athletics converge in the heart of Little Egypt, offering diverse opportunities for students and the community.
Corn Crib on Potts Inn Historic Site
17.4 km
Explore the Corn Crib at Potts Inn Historic Site in Elizabethtown, Illinois, and discover the region's captivating agricultural heritage.
Carrier Mills Archaeological District
22.3 km
Discover the rich heritage and serene beauty of the Carrier Mills Archaeological District, a hidden gem in Illinois showcasing ancient Native American history.
John Marshall House Museum
24.0 km
Explore pioneer life and banking history at the John Marshall House Museum in Old Shawneetown, Illinois' historically rich landmark.
Historical Marker
24.2 km
Explore the Historical Marker in Eldorado, Illinois, and connect with the rich tapestry of local history that shaped this charming town.
Shawneetown Bank State Historic Site
24.2 km
Visit the historic Shawneetown Bank, Illinois' oldest bank building, and discover the rich history of this early commercial center.
Miller Grove Town National Historic Site
25.4 km
Explore the Miller Grove Town National Historic Site in Simpson, Illinois, where history meets nature in a captivating and tranquil setting.
Berry's Ferry John Berry Homesite on Trail of Tears
26.7 km
Explore Berry's Ferry in Smithland, KY, a significant historical site on the Trail of Tears that honors the Cherokee Nation's enduring spirit and legacy.
William Rondeau Hermitage Historic Site
26.9 km
Experience the historical charm of the William Rondeau Hermitage, a serene landmark steeped in Kentucky's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Four Points, River to River Trail
26.9 km
A key intersection on the River to River Trail, offering access to the scenic Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois.
Golconda Historic District
27.8 km
Discover the charm of a bygone era in Golconda Historic District, where 19th-century architecture meets the tranquil beauty of the Ohio River.
John Dupont House Historic Site
34.2 km
Step back in time at the John Dupont House Historic Site in New Burnside, Illinois, and explore 19th-century architecture and local history.
Shady Rest Historic Site
35.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Camel Rock
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting Camel Rock in Herod, Illinois, where unique geological formations meet stunning natural beauty.
Indian Point Trailhead
0.6 km
Explore the serene beauty of Indian Point Trailhead in Herod, Illinois, a hiking paradise featuring breathtaking views and tranquil nature trails.
Shawnee Bigfoot Statue
3.1 km
Explore the quirky Shawnee Bigfoot Statue in the Garden of Gods, Illinois—where folklore meets stunning natural beauty.
High Knob Lookout
5.0 km
Discover breathtaking views and serene hikes at High Knob Lookout in the enchanting Shawnee National Forest, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventurers.
Herod Cave Historic Site
5.6 km
Explore the captivating natural beauty and geological wonders at Herod Cave Historic Site, a must-visit historical landmark in Illinois.
Rim Rock National Recreation Trail
9.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Rim Rock National Recreation Trail in Illinois, a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure for every nature lover.
Illinois Iron Furnace (National Historic Site)
12.7 km
Explore the Illinois Iron Furnace, a National Historic Site revealing the area's rich industrial past amidst stunning natural beauty.
Lusk Creek Canyon Nature Preserve
16.7 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife at Lusk Creek Canyon Nature Preserve in Eddyville, Illinois, a true outdoor paradise.
Indian Kitchen Trailhead
19.0 km
Discover the tranquility of Indian Kitchen Trailhead, a breathtaking hiking area in Eddyville, Illinois, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventures.
Saline County Area Museum (Saline Creek Pioneer Village and Museum)
19.5 km
Explore the rich history at Saline County Area Museum, where the past comes alive through engaging exhibits and charming pioneer structures.
Bay Creek Wilderness
21.8 km
Explore the natural wonders and serene landscapes of Bay Creek Wilderness in Stonefort, Illinois, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and outdoor adventures.
Burden Falls Trailhead
23.2 km
Explore the natural beauty and serene landscapes of Burden Falls Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in Stonefort, Illinois, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Cave-In-Rock State Park
25.2 km
Explore the natural beauty and rich history of Cave-In-Rock State Park, a premier destination for outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes in Illinois.
Sand Cave - Underground Railroad National Historic Site
25.6 km
Uncover the history of the Underground Railroad at the Sand Cave National Historic Site, a captivating landmark rich in natural beauty.
Redbud Campground
25.7 km
Experience the tranquility of Redbud Campground in Shawnee National Forest, a perfect retreat for camping and outdoor adventures.
Essential places to dine
Gap Bar
5.0 km
Experience delicious grilling at Gap Bar in Herod, Illinois - where every meal is crafted with care in a friendly atmosphere.
Double M Campground
10.2 km
Discover tranquility at Double M Campground in Junction, Illinois - your ultimate outdoor retreat with dining options!
Trails End Grill
10.3 km
Discover Trails End Grill: A charming restaurant in Junction offering delicious American cuisine and scenic views near Garden of the Gods.
The Red Onion
14.8 km
Discover The Red Onion: A charming American eatery in Equality offering exquisite seafood and steak dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
E'Town River Restaurant
19.1 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine in a unique riverside setting at E'Town River Restaurant in Elizabethtown, Illinois.
El Ranchito Restaurant
19.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at El Ranchito Restaurant in Harrisburg – where authentic cuisine meets warm hospitality.
Johnson Southern Style Bar-B-Q
20.0 km
Discover authentic Southern barbecue flavors at Johnson Southern Style Bar-B-Q in Harrisburg, Illinois - a must-visit for every food lover.
steam café
20.1 km
Experience the rich flavors of coffee and fresh pastries at Steam Café in Harrisburg - your go-to spot for breakfast and lunch delights.
Bar-B-Q Barn
20.7 km
Experience the best barbecue in Harrisburg at Bar-B-Q Barn—where smoky flavors meet warm hospitality.
Shotgun Eddys
20.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Shotgun Eddys, Eddyville's favorite grill known for hearty portions and friendly service.
Don Luna
20.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Don Luna - where delicious meets affordable in Harrisburg's culinary scene.
Lincoln Street Grille & Pub
21.2 km
Discover the charm of Shawneetown at Lincoln Street Grille & Pub – where delicious grilled fare meets warm hospitality in a vibrant setting.
Gillio's Pizza
21.3 km
Savor delicious handcrafted pizzas at Gillio's Pizza in Shawneetown—where every bite feels like home.
Dad's BBQ, Inc
23.0 km
Discover mouthwatering barbecue and delightful breakfast at Dad's BBQ, Inc in Eldorado - a true taste of American comfort food.
Liz's Cafe
23.1 km
Discover Liz's Cafe in Eldorado: A cozy American eatery offering delicious comfort food in an inviting atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rose Clare Craft & Antique
19.7 km
Explore unique crafts and antiques at Rose Clare Craft & Antique in Rosiclare, Illinois - a treasure trove of local culture and history.
The FACTORY
20.1 km
Experience the charm of Harrisburg at The FACTORY, where local goods meet unique gifts in a welcoming atmosphere.
Shawnee Hills Antique Mall
20.5 km
Explore the charm of Shawnee Hills Antique Mall, where timeless treasures and unique collectibles await in Harrisburg, Illinois.
R61 Resale Boutique
20.9 km
Explore the charm of R61 Resale Boutique in Harrisburg, IL, where every thrifted item tells a story and unique treasures await discovery.
Friendly Farms
22.3 km
Explore Friendly Farms in Eddyville, Illinois, where home goods meet local charm and unique craftsmanship awaits every visitor.
Country Cottage
22.4 km
Discover your creative side at Country Cottage, a charming scrapbooking store in Harrisburg, IL, offering supplies and workshops for all skill levels.
The Big Red Barn
27.1 km
Discover unique antiques and collectibles at The Big Red Barn in Raleigh, Illinois, where history comes alive through timeless treasures.
Shawnee National Forest
27.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty of Shawnee National Forest, a hidden gem in Southern Illinois for outdoor adventures.
Blue i Leather and Goods
35.0 km
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Chocolate Factory
35.2 km
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Magpie Market House
48.6 km
Explore the charm of Marion, Illinois, at Magpie Market House, where local craftsmanship meets unique gift shopping.
Wit and Wisdom - Creative Customs
49.8 km
Explore Wit and Wisdom in Marion for custom t-shirts and embroidery services that capture your unique style and memories.
Glacier’s End
49.9 km
Experience the best of local produce and artisanal goods at Glacier's End, a charming grocery store and farm shop in Marion, Illinois.
Perfectly Posh Boutique
50.0 km
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Whimsy, A Children's Clothing Store
50.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Jacs Place
12.0 km
Discover the charm of Jacs Place, a cozy bar and store nestled in the stunning Shawnee National Forest, perfect for a relaxing retreat.
Aces
18.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Elizabethtown at Aces, your go-to bar for drinks, live music, and unforgettable local vibes.
E'Town Tap
19.0 km
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JoJos Bar
19.5 km
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Town Square Pub
20.2 km
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Layton's Old Town Bar and Grill
24.3 km
Discover the charm of Layton's Old Town Bar and Grill, where delicious food meets vibrant local culture in Shawneetown, Illinois.
Lusk Creek Liquor and Gaming
27.9 km
Discover Lusk Creek Liquor and Gaming: The perfect blend of delicious grill cuisine and exciting gaming in Golconda, Illinois.
The Levee Lounge
28.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Golconda at The Levee Lounge, a premier grill offering a delightful menu in a cozy setting.
Sullys
40.0 km
Discover the charm of Sully’s, a cozy bar in Creal Springs, IL, where great drinks and friendly faces await you.
Triple E BBQ Lake of Egypt
48.1 km
Discover the authentic Southern barbecue experience at Triple E BBQ Lake of Egypt, where savory flavors meet beautiful lakeside views.
Sunbar
49.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Vienna at Sunbar, where craft cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere await you.
Ned's Shed
49.6 km
Delicious handcrafted hamburgers await at Ned's Shed, a charming eatery in Vienna, Illinois, perfect for burger lovers seeking an unforgettable meal.
Southbound Bar & Liquor
49.7 km
Discover the lively spirit of Marion at Southbound Bar & Liquor, a vibrant space perfect for enjoying drinks and local culture.
Pookie's Beer, Burgers & Bocce
49.7 km
Experience the best burgers and lively bocce at Pookie's Beer, Burgers & Bocce in Marion, IL—a culinary delight for food lovers and tourists.
John Brown's On the Square
49.7 km
Discover the heart of Marion at John Brown's On the Square, where live music meets great food in a vibrant bar setting.
