Located between the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers in Southern Illinois, the Shawnee National Forest is a treasure of natural beauty ideal for outdoor recreation. The Forest’s landscape features rolling hills, open lands, lakes, green forests, creeks, and rugged bluffs.
The region’s mild weather throughout the year makes a visit enjoyable during any season. Adventure enthusiasts are greeted by magnificent walls of rock covered with emerald-green moss and paths that stretch through grand canyons under the forest canopy.
About the Wildlife
The area is home to more than 500 wildlife species, including 48 mammals, 237 birds, 57 amphibians, 52 reptiles, and 109 fish species. Seven federally listed endangered and threatened species inhabit the Forest, with 33 species considered regionally sensitive. Staying in the top cabin rentals in Illinois lets you have a personal and close encounter with these species.
Other areas include-
- 7 Congressionally-designated Wilderness Areas
- 4 National Natural Landmarks
- 10 Research Natural Areas
- 80 other designated Natural Areas
These regions are considered vital for botanical, ecological, or zoological reasons. If you plan to visit Shawnee National Forest, check out the local attractions listed in this blog.
Top 5 places to visit in Shawnee National Forest
- Garden of the Gods
Visitors to the Shawnee National Forest can explore an area unlike any other. One such place is the awesome Garden of the Gods Recreation Area, which has rock formations and cliffs made of sandstone over millions of years. Today, these marvelous structures are embedded within a lush green forest and scenic landscape.
The observation trail gives access to unique locations and scenic views of the surrounding Garden of the Gods Wilderness. Stay overnight at the cabins for rent in southern Illinois for an unforgettable visit!
- Bald Knob Cross
Bald Knob Cross in the Shawnee National Forest is located near the small town of Alto Pass, Illinois. It towers above the landscape over 111 feet and is visible more than 7,500 square miles. Famous as a national symbol of faith, the 111-foot-tall cross, when illuminated at night, is seen over 7,500 square miles atop the most prominent elevation in the area.
Visit here to immerse yourself in the serene beauty and spiritual ambiance of the Bald Knob Cross of Peace. Complement your journey with a stay at the top-rated Shawnee Forest Cabins.
- Rend Lake
Find your next adventure at Rend Lake, IL. Located in the heart of southern Illinois, it is a recreational haven for visitors and a natural haven for wildlife. Rend Lake has 18,900 acres of water and 20,000 acres of land. Campers can also explore the public campgrounds here.
Several boat ramps allow boaters to access the lake. Beaches, picnic sites, and trails offer the best backdrop for outdoor fun. Luxury cabins in the area provide special opportunities for recreationists.
- Pounds Hollow
Pounds Hollow Campground and Lake are hidden gems among the Shawnee Hills. Here, you can relax and rewind from the daily hustle. At Pounds Hollow Lake, visitors can even fish, swim, camp, nature watch, and hike. The place is large enough to provide visitors with seclusion during their visit.
Other Attractions here include-
- Rim Rock National Recreation Trail
- Ohio River National Scenic Byway
- Garden of Gods Wilderness
- Illinois Iron Furnace Historic Site
- High Knob scenic point
- Garden of the Gods Recreation Area
- River to River Trail
- Cave-in-Rock State Park.
- Fort Massac
- Crab Orchard lake
Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is 44,000 acres of land with diverse flora and fauna. The major habitats include bottomland hardwood forests, oak-hickory upland forests, brushland, prairie, cropland, grazing units, wetlands, and lakes. The refuge also consists of a 4,050-acre designated wilderness area.
This wildlife refuge is where you can unplug from the stresses of everyday life and reconnect with nature. Visiting a national wildlife refuge is an excellent way to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you enjoy hiking, canoeing, picnicking, wildlife photography, hunting, camping, or birdwatching, visit Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge to explore nature at its best.
The bottom line
Southern Illinois blends old-world charm with modern style, with several outdoor parks, lakes, museums, shops, and much more. When it comes to Shawnee, even the locals might find it overwhelming to fit everything into one weekend or a season! If you’re planning a visit to Shawnee, consider the above attractions to enjoy with the family. A Shawnee Forest Vacation also means you will have many lodging options. Whether you want an upscale hotel or cozy cabin rentals in Illinois, Shawnee Forest Cabins offers an abundance of stay destinations having all the modern amenities. Browse them all and book your stay now!
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