Shawnee National Forest, Southern Illinois Travel Guide

Getting There

• Car

  If you are in Carbondale, IL, take U.S. Route 51 South toward Anna. After approximately 18 miles, take a left onto IL-146 East. Continue for about 20 miles until you reach the intersection with IL-34. Turn right onto IL-34 South and follow it for about 10 miles. At this point, you will reach the town of Herod, where Shawnee National Forest is located. Make sure to keep an eye out for the signs directing you to the different areas of the forest. Parking is available at various access points within the forest, but some may require a small fee.

• Public Transportation

  Public transportation options in Southern Illinois are limited, but you can take a Greyhound bus to Carbondale, IL. From the Carbondale bus station, you will need to arrange for a rideshare service or taxi to get to Shawnee National Forest as there are no direct public transport routes to the forest. The distance from Carbondale to Shawnee National Forest is approximately 30 miles, and rideshare fares can vary, typically ranging from $30 to $50 depending on demand.

• Car

  If you are coming from Murphysboro, IL, head east on IL-149 until you reach IL-127 South. Take IL-127 South for approximately 10 miles, then turn left onto IL-146 East. Continue on IL-146 East for about 15 miles until you reach the intersection with IL-34, where you will turn right. After about 10 miles, you will arrive in Herod, the gateway to Shawnee National Forest. Look for signs indicating the various access points to the forest.

• Car

  From Harrisburg, IL, take IL-34 West for approximately 25 miles. You will pass through the town of Herod along the way, where you can stop for supplies if needed. After you pass through Herod, continue on IL-34 until you reach the entrance to Shawnee National Forest. Be aware that some areas may require a parking fee, so have cash ready for any potential costs.