Shawnee National Forest

Visited Garden of the Gods. Lots of beautiful high cliffs and rocks to climb. The climbing is optional and fun for the adventurous. If you stick to the tail you'll find it too be a relatively easy hike. Not recommend for younger children as the are no rails and steep cliff edges to stand upon if you desire. Also not recommended if you're afraid of heights. That said, it's an amazingly beautiful place, a short trail hike(3/4 of a mile), and well worth seeing. The history tells of a body of water that once covered the entire area. It's interesting. A nice day-visit location.
5 7 years ago (27-05-2018)

The Shawnee national forest is a beautiful place. From hiking trails through wooded areas to fantastic views from rock overlooks, the Shawnee will not disappoint. The trails are well maintained and the workers are friendly. It is a great place to visit for hiking, camping, and spending time with friends and family! I highly recommend that you come and take a hike or camp here at some point, as it is absolutely an enjoyable time in nature.
5 7 years ago (13-05-2018)

Perfect area for some of Illinois' preeminent hiking. All kinds of trails and campgrounds for varying skill and age levels. Garden of the Gods and the Little Grand Canyon are classic trails to hit, but there is loads to discover in this National Forest. Perfect for anything from a day trip, an extended weekend, or even week-long treks. The breweries, wineries, and shops throughout the region are an added bonus.
5 7 years ago (02-05-2018)

I went here for the eclipse in 2017. I was told by a friend that he went here and absolutely loved it. He said the cliffs and rocks were unreal. Being from the Midwest, I had no idea this kind of place was so close! I saw that Garden of the Gods was in the path of totality, and decided I would be seeing the eclipse here regardless of how crowded it was. In spite of the crowd, I was able to enjoy simply sitting in nature and taking in God's glory. The eclipse was fantastic too. Our camping experience the day before the eclipse was fun as well! We just found a spot in the wood that was flat, plopped our tent down, and relaxed. I have plans to return here for my next camping trip, and will likely make this a spot I frequently visit to enjoy the great outdoors. Don't hesitate to visit this wonderful gem hidden in the Midwest.
5 7 years ago (08-05-2018)

Want to Hike, camp or horse ride it's great! Primitive camping mostly. Most beautiful in Fall or spring. Check out the Chocolate Factory Inc on highway 146, exit16 off of I24 Vienna Golconda exit. The Chocolate Factory Inc sets 11 miles from Vienna and 10 miles from Golconda. There is no other food or gas between except chocolate and ice cream.
5 7 years ago (25-05-2018)