Discover the Natural Wonders of Shawnee National Forest
Explore the breathtaking beauty and diverse landscapes of Shawnee National Forest, a natural paradise for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers.
Shawnee National Forest is a breathtaking natural paradise in Illinois, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Explore its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless recreational opportunities.
A brief summary to Shawnee National Forest
- Herod, Illinois, 62946, US
- +1800-699-6637
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Pack plenty of water and snacks before hitting the trails, as amenities are limited within the forest.
- Consider visiting during the fall for stunning foliage and cooler hiking temperatures.
- Always check trail conditions and maps at the visitor center before setting out.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching—Shawnee is home to a variety of bird species.
- Be mindful of wildlife and maintain a safe distance, especially during the early morning and evening hours.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Discover more about Shawnee National Forest
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Red Cedar Hiking Trail - Red Cedar Falls
8.2 km
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Historic Bell Hill Wedding Venue
8.3 km
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Southern Illinois University
12.1 km
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Underground Public House
13.5 km
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R. Buckminster Fuller and Anne Hewlett Dome Home
13.6 km
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The Varsity Center
13.9 km
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Hundley House
14.0 km
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Carbondale Pavilion
14.4 km
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Inspiration Point Trailhead
14.5 km
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Little Egypt Pediatric Dentistry
15.0 km
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Southernmost Illinois Tourism
15.1 km
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Anna City Park
17.0 km
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Anna-Jonesboro Trail of Tears and Lincoln-Douglas Debate site
17.3 km
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Southern Illinois Historic Preservation
18.2 km
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General John A Logan Museum
18.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Feather Hills Vineyard and Winery
3.9 km
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Cliff View Park
5.6 km
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Visions
5.8 km
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Makanda Boardwalk
5.8 km
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Peachbarn Winery & Café
6.3 km
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Trillium Trail
6.4 km
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Stonefort Nature Trail
6.9 km
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Giant City State Park Equestrian Campground and Trailhead
6.9 km
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Giant City Stone Fort Site
7.0 km
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Devil’s Standtable Nature Trail
7.1 km
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Giant City Visitor Center
7.4 km
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Giant City Nature Trail
7.5 km
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Giant City State Park
7.7 km
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Pomona Natural Bridge
7.7 km
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Giant City Stables
7.8 km
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Essential places to dine
Von Jakob Winery & Brewery
4.6 km
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Mase's Place
12.4 km
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Longbranch Cafe & Bakery
14.5 km
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Walker's Bluff
23.0 km
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Goreville Food Market
26.4 km
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El Tequila Mexican Restaurant
26.9 km
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Goreville Grill
27.1 km
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Whiffle Boy's Pizza & More
27.2 km
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The Cross-Eyed Bear
29.8 km
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Red Lobster
30.4 km
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O'Charley's Restaurant & Bar
30.5 km
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20's Hideout Steakhouse
30.7 km
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Fazoli's
32.2 km
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The Vault Cafe on the Square
33.4 km
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Bennie's Italian Foods
33.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rainmaker Art Studio
5.8 km
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Makanda Country Store
5.8 km
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Makanda General Store
5.8 km
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P B & J
5.8 km
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Makanda Trading Company
5.8 km
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Jinny Pearl's
5.9 km
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Cobden Village Shops
8.6 km
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Cobden Village Shops - Packrats Paradise
8.6 km
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Blend Tea and Crepe Lounge
13.5 km
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Shawnee Trails Wilderness
13.6 km
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Grand Avenue Mall
13.7 km
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Scooter's Coffee
13.8 km
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Fresh Foods
13.8 km
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Hollywood 22 inc
13.9 km
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Neighborhood Co-op Grocery
13.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Makanda Inn
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Havisham Bourbon Bar
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Giant City Lodge
8.0 km
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Fuzzy's Tavern
8.3 km
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Harbaugh's Cafe
13.4 km
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Quatro's Deep Pan Pizza
13.7 km
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Traxx
13.7 km
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LEVELS
13.8 km
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Pagliai's of Carbondale
13.9 km
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Key West Bar
13.9 km
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Italian Village
14.1 km
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PK’s Bar
14.1 km
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The Cellar
14.2 km
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Mary Lou's Grill
14.2 km
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Aban Kitchen
14.2 km
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