Are you eager to discover the best hikes, campsites, places to stay, and top things to do in the breathtaking Shawnee National Forest? Read this blog for a quick weekend guide before you book your tickets to this natural wonder!
When coming to the Shawnee Forest, expect unreliable cell service and a few hiking trails to be overgrown, slippery, or difficult. With these in mind, plan a Shawnee National Forest adventure accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. However, the essential thing is finding primely located cabin rentals in Illinois to encounter the nearby recreation areas, wilderness areas, and other developed camping areas in the forest easily and conveniently!
From the best easy hiking trails to where to camp in the Shawnee National Forest, here’s a weekend guide to one of the most incredible spots in Illinois!
Places to Explore in Shawnee National Forest
Hiking Garden of the Gods Recreation Area
Hiking in the Garden of the Gods Observation Trail of the Shawnee National Forest is probably the best thing you can do here. For good reasons, it is the most scenic (and most popular!) point in the Shawnee Forest.
On this short trail, you can appreciate a diverse range of geological formations, such as sandstone hoodoos, overlooks of the forest below, and grand canyons. The trail is especially beautiful at sunset and moderately crowded.
If you want to do only one thing in the Shawnee National Forest, stick to the plan of exploring the Garden of the Gods!
Pounds Hollow Recreation Area
Pounds Hollow Recreation Area in Illinois is a nature lover’s paradise. This serene spot, surrounded by lush green forests, is home to the picturesque Pounds Hollow Lake, perfect for fishing, swimming, and hiking on the Rim Rock trails. Its proximity to Garden of the Gods and Shawnee Forest Cabins, just 10 miles away, makes it an ideal base for outdoor adventures.
Families and solo travelers will like it here as it’s friendly for everyone and has affordable accommodation options with the best amenities. It’s a lovely getaway into nature where you can unwind and have fun outdoors.
Hiking Rim Rock Trail
Rim Rock Hiking Trail is a quick drive from the Garden of the Gods area and a great choice for hiking with kids. The main trail has many cool overlooks and a cave.
Please note that some of the trail may be closed, making access to the Ox Lot Cave along the main trail may be difficult. However, the cave is accessible through the lower trail, and repairs have been made to the staircase that connects the two trails.
Hiking Little Grand Canyon
The Little Grand Canyon trail is a unique experience in the Shawnee National Forest. This three-mile loop, featuring overlooks and a canyon, is one of the most popular hikes in the forest, especially in the spring when the landscape comes alive with vibrant colors.
Packing for a hike in the Shawnee National Forest
Here are a few things you need to pack with you while hiking in the forest-
- Quick dry shorts for hiking
- Lightweight, long pants for rugged areas
- Solid day hiking pack
- UPF hoodie for sun protection
- First aid kit & emergency communication
- Food, water, snacks
- Solid hiking boots
- Trekking poles (depending on the trail)
- Binoculars
Accommodations in Shawnee National Forest
Exploring places in the Shawnee National Forest lets you get close to nature. Choose from established campsites or dispersed campgrounds, and find the perfect option for cabin rentals in Illinois to make the most of your visit. With fantastic hiking trails, Shawnee National Forest offers memorable adventures.
Discover our top lodging options for an unforgettable experience-
- Treehouse with Hot Tub – Our treehouse cabin is a guest favorite. It features a suspension bridge leading to a private hot tub among the trees. The cabin also includes a loft bedroom, fireplace, WiFi, satellite TV, a queen bed, and a sleeper sofa.
- 1 Bedroom Hot Tub Cabins – Perfect for couples or small families, these cabins offer a private hot tub, fireplace, WiFi, satellite TV, full kitchens, a queen-size bed, and a sleeper sofa suitable for children.
- 2 Bedroom Hot Tub Cabins – Ideal for family getaways or retreats, these cabins provide full kitchens, WiFi, satellite TV, fireplaces, new hot tubs, two queen beds, and sleeper sofas accommodating children.
The bottom line
For the best Shawnee Forest cabin rentals in Illinois, look no further than the most reviewed cabins in Southern Illinois: The Shawnee Forest Cabins! Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway with a hot tub or a cozy spot close to the Garden of the Gods, we offer a variety of options with convenient access to the unspoiled beauty of Shawnee National Forest. Reserve your stay now and prepare for the ultimate retreat at our exclusive cabins.
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