Trail of Tears State Forest: A Place of Remembrance and Recreation
Explore the trails and remember the past in the ruggedly beautiful Trail of Tears State Forest, a natural and historical landmark in Illinois.
Nestled in the rugged Ozark Hills of Southern Illinois, Trail of Tears State Forest offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Named in remembrance of the Cherokee, Creek, and Chickasaw nations' forced relocation in 1838-39, the forest provides a space for reflection and outdoor activities across its 5,114 acres.
A brief summary to Trail of Tears State Forest
- 3240 State Forest Rd, Jonesboro, Illinois, 62952, US
- +1618-833-4910
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check trail conditions before you go, especially if planning to horseback ride, as trails may close after heavy rains.
- Bring your own water, as there is no water access at the campsites.
- Be aware that cell service is limited within the forest.
- Register at the trailhead sign-in station before embarking on a horseback ride.
Getting There
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Driving
Trail of Tears State Forest is accessible by car via Illinois Route 127 and Route 3. From Murphysboro, take Highway 127 south to State Forest Road, heading east. From Jonesboro, take Highway 127 north to State Forest Road, heading east. From Wolf Lake on Route 3, take State Forest Road west. Follow State Forest Road to the forest entrance. There are no entrance fees. Parking is available at various points throughout the forest.
Discover more about Trail of Tears State Forest
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Anna-Jonesboro Trail of Tears and Lincoln-Douglas Debate site
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Southernmost Illinois Tourism
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Historic Bell Hill Wedding Venue
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Anna City Park
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Inspiration Point Trailhead
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Red Cedar Hiking Trail - Red Cedar Falls
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Southern Illinois University
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Century Casino Cape Girardeau
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Lorimier Cemetery
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The overlook of the Mississippi
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Himmelberger and Harrison Building
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Riverfront park
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Many Good Things Brewing
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The Boulevard Local Historic District
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Minglewood Brewery
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Peachbarn Winery & Café
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Cliff View Park
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Larue-Pine Hills National Natural Landmark
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Shawnee National Forest
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Feather Hills Vineyard and Winery
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Trail of Tears State Park
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Pomona Natural Bridge
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Giant City State Park Equestrian Campground and Trailhead
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Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
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Giant City Nature Trail
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Devil’s Standtable Nature Trail
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Giant City State Park Lodge & Restaurant
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Visions
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Essential places to dine
Von Jakob Winery & Brewery
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Mase's Place
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Beacon 53
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Cafe & Me
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Pasta + Sauce
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Chick-fil-A
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Broussard's Cajun Cuisine
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Port Cape Girardeau Restaurant and Lounge
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36 Restaurant & Bar
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Yuzu
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Kenny's Flippin Burgers
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Celebrations Restaurant & Bar
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Speck Pizza
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Urban Kitchen and Bar
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The Library
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Cobden Village Shops - Packrats Paradise
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Feelin Groovy
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Oldies but Goodies Antiques
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Rainmaker Art Studio
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Makanda Country Store
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Makanda General Store
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P B & J
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Makanda Trading Company
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Jinny Pearl's
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B Boutique
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Hempies
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Makanda Inn
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Giant City Lodge
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Social House Sprigg St.
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Spectrum Record Lounge
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Rude Dog Pub
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Blue Diamond Sports Bar
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Blush Ultra Lounge
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Harbaugh's Cafe
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Hypnotic Bar & Nightclub
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The Hangout
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Club Seven 7
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D'Ladium's Sports Bar
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Quatro's Deep Pan Pizza
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