Shawnee National Forest, Southern Illinois Travel Guide

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Discover Illinois's natural beauty: hiking, camping, and stunning landscapes await in the heart of Shawnee National Forest.

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Shawnee National Forest

Escape to the Shawnee National Forest, Illinois's only national forest, offering 289,000 acres of outdoor adventure between the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Explore diverse landscapes, from oak-hickory forests and wetlands to stunning bluffs and geological formations.

A brief summary to Shawnee National Forest

Herod, Illinois, 62946, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Shawnee National Forest.

Check the Shawnee National Forest website for alerts, warnings, and the latest information on trail conditions and closures before your visit.
Be prepared for limited cell service and GPS signal within the forest. Download maps or purchase a Forest Trail Map from the Friends of the Shawnee National Forest.
Bring your own drinking water, as forest streams may not be safe for consumption.
Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the forest's natural beauty.
Visit during the cooler months or weekdays to avoid crowds at popular spots like Garden of the Gods and Little Grand Canyon.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Buel House State Historic Site

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Shady Rest Historic Site

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Southern Illinois Historic Preservation

Explore Shawnee National Forest on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Shawnee National Forest, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Most destinations within the Shawnee National Forest are accessible by car. From major cities like St. Louis, expect a 2 to 2.5-hour drive. Once in the vicinity, navigate using major highways like Highway 145 or Highway 45, then follow forest service roads to reach specific trailheads or recreation areas. Be aware that some forest roads are unpaved and may be better suited for high-clearance vehicles. Parking is available at most trailheads and recreation areas, but it can be limited, especially during peak seasons. There is no fee to enter Shawnee National Forest. However, camping fees apply at designated campgrounds, typically around $10-$40 per night, payable in cash at a dropbox. Some popular recreation sites may have a $5 per vehicle admission fee in the future, with a $30 annual pass option. Check the official website for the latest updates on fees.

Discover more about Shawnee National Forest

Shawnee National Forest, nestled in Southern Illinois, is a sprawling natural playground encompassing 289,000 acres between the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Established in 1939 from exhausted farmland, the forest has since been revitalized by the Civilian Conservation Corps, becoming a diverse ecosystem of oak-hickory forests, wetlands, open lands, and unique geological features.The forest's history is intertwined with both Native American heritage and the environmental recovery efforts of the Great Depression. Although the Shawnee tribe didn't permanently settle the area, their influence resonates in the forest's name. The Civilian Conservation Corps played a crucial role in reforesting the land, planting trees to combat erosion and create recreational areas.Today, Shawnee National Forest offers a wide array of activities. Hike along the 160-mile River to River Trail or explore shorter loops like the popular Garden of the Gods Observation Trail. Discover unique rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic views. Camping options range from developed campgrounds with amenities to primitive backpacking experiences. Enjoy fishing, boating, horseback riding, and birdwatching amidst the forest's diverse landscapes.Whether you seek thrilling outdoor adventures or peaceful immersion in nature, Shawnee National Forest provides an unforgettable escape in the heart of the Midwest.