Garden of the Gods

Explore the dramatic rock formations, cliffs and trails of the most visited site in the Shawnee National Forest. Millions of years in the making, the Garden of the Gods provides spectacular views unlike anywhere in the Midwest. See Camel Rock, Anvil Rock, Devil's Smoke Stack and other magnificent rock formations in this hiker’s and photographer’s wonderland.

CITY: Karbers Ridge

Shawnee National Forest

The Shawnee National Forest is famed for its awesome Garden of the Gods, and is home to the Rim Rock Recreational Trail (the forest has a system of 403 miles of equestrian/hiking trails). Hikers are greeted by magnificent jutting walls of rock covered with emerald-green moss, and paths that meander through canyons under the forest canopy. Nestled between the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, the stunning Shawnee National Forest landscape features rolling hills, lakes, creeks and rugged bluffs.

CITY: Harrisburg

Timber Ridge Outpost & Cabins

Nestled in the beautiful hills of the Shawnee National Forest, Timber Ridge offers something for everyone, from families and honeymooners to outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy some Southern hospitality while staying in a real log cabin or one-of-a-kind treehouse. Each of the units, including the treehouse, is equipped with a bathroom, kitchenette, heating and air conditioning.

CITY: Elizabethtown

Cave-in-Rock State Park

Wander along the Ohio River and step into the large cavern, steeped in history of river pirates. Enjoy the spectacular river views from the lodge perched atop the overhanging bluffs. Cabins, picnic areas, camping and showers available.

CITY: Cave In Rock

Willowbrook Cabins

Nestled in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest. Excellent deer and turkey hunting. Only 6 miles to the Ohio River and Golconda Marina, but still tucked away in the forest. Just above Lusk Creek. Come visit our little piece of heaven in the Shawnee.

CITY: Golconda

Double M Campground / Cabins

We offer 2 cabins and 131 campsites. Enjoy the biking/running trails, bird/eagle watching, hiking, horseback riding trails, hunting, rock climbing, rappelling and the Shawnee National Forests.

CITY: Junction

Cave In Rock State Park Lodge

Lodging nestled in the Shawnee National Forest on Pirates' Bluff, units have a private balcony providing a breathtaking view of the Ohio River. Duplex cabins include a large living area containing two queen size beds, satellite TV and VCR. Bath includes full tub and shower facilities. Within walking distance to the "Cave" of Cave-In-Rock, the Ohio River free ferry to Kentucky Amish Country is nearby. Garden of the Gods, Tower Rock, Rim Rock and all the rest of the natural wonders Southern Illinois has to offer are minutes away. Kaylor's Restaurant is right in our cabin complex, is open seven days a week and also offers an outstanding view of the river. We offer year round lodging for Southern Illinois travelers. We now have two private homes available with full cooking facilities.

CITY: Cave In Rock

Arrowhead Lodge

Five furnished lodges each with kitchenettes, private bath with amenities. Perfect for travelers, hunters, fishermen and hikers. Affordable family lodging in the heart of the Shawnee Forest. Excellent hunting and fishing on both private and federal land. Children and pets welcome. Centrally located 6 miles north of Elizabethtown and 4 miles south of Karbers Ridge. Owner: Jerry Haney.

CITY: Elizabethtown

Barren Creek Cottages

Located at Bay City, at the Smithland Pool on the Ohio River. Boat launch, hook-ups and floating docks. Completely furnished.

CITY: Golconda

Shawnee Trails End

Come ride the Shawnee National Forest, in Southern Illinois. See the beautiful countryside, the scenic back roads, endless trail, and enjoy all the Shawnee National Forest has to offer. Such as scenic bluffs, spring flowers, wildlife, streams, waterfalls, and awesome rock formations.

CITY: Herod

34 Ranch Horseman's Campground

34 Ranch offers the largest privately-owned horseman's campground in Southern Illinois. Located in Hardin and Pope Counties in the midst of the beautiful Shawnee National Forest. Open year round. One cabin is primitive without plumbing. The other two have both baths and kitchens. The ranch also has 250 modern campsites and can accommodate RV's. Rents out cabins and one trailer. Owner: Tom Luchies.

CITY: Herod

Lock & Dam 51 Houses-Golconda

Four Historic Lock-keepers houses, recently renovated for overnight rentals overlooking the Ohio River. Period furnishings, fully equipped kitchens, front & back porches, TVs and phones.

CITY: Golconda

Cave-in-Rock State Park Lodge and Cabins

Lodging nestled in the Shawnee National Forest on Pirates' Bluff, units have a private balcony providing a breathtaking view of the Ohio River. Duplex cabins include a large living area containing two queen beds and Sat TV/VCR, Bath has full tub and shower facilities. Within walking distance to the "Cave" of Cave-in-Rock, and the Ohio River free ferry to Kentucky Amish Country is nearby. Kaylor's Restaurant located in the cabin complex, is open seven days a week and offers an outstanding view of the river. Offers year round lodging. Concessionaires: Annie and Marty Kaylor.

CITY: Cave-in-rock

San Damiano Retreat Center and Shrine

Covering 200 acres of the bluffs of the Ohio river and surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest, this is a place of beauty, quiet and calmness. Private cottages have all the conveniences, plus dining room, conference center, hiking, fishing and chapel.

CITY: Golconda

Super 8 - Harrisburg

Hot tub- suites available free continental breakfast- non smoking & handicapped rooms available.

CITY: Harrisburg

Economy Inn & Suites

Well established, friendly hometown motel. Queen beds, specials, kids free under 12, free coffee and tourism information. Close to Shawnee National Forest and Garden of Gods Recreation Area.

CITY: Harrisburg

Saline Creek Pioneer Village

This fascinating pioneer village includes the original Saline County Pauper Farm (now a three-story museum), an old jail, an 1859 one-room schoolhouse, the Cain Church, several 1800s log cabins, a barn and country store.

CITY: Harrisburg

The Bar B Q Barn

One of Harrisburg's most popular home cooking restaurants, the speciality is fresh pit style BBQ sandwiches. Open Monday through Saturday for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Stop in before hiking in the Garden of the Gods.

CITY: Harrisburg

Shawnee Home Place

Three bedroom house rental near the Ohio River and the Shawnee National Forest.

CITY: Elizabethtown

Lafayette Inn

Located in three historic structures covering 2/3rds of the city block, two blocks west of the public square on Route 13.

CITY: Harrisburg

How the West Was Won - Shawnee National Forest

An all-star cast is featured in this frontier drama about the western expansion of the United States in the early 1800s, as seen through the eyes of two pioneer families. Parts of the movie were filmed in Southern Illinois' Shawnee National Forest and Cave-in-Rock State Park, named for its limestone cave that once harbored real river pirates.

CITY: Harrisburg

Bear Branch Lodging

Features 5 cabins and a lodging facility on the highest hilltop in Pope County, overlooking and literally surrounded by the beautiful Shawnee National Forest. Most cabins have private baths, kitchenettes and charcoal grills outside.

CITY: Eddyville

Paula Switzer Lodging

2 bedrooms with sleeping accomodations for 5, a full size, and 2 twin beds and a rollaway. A stocked kitchen

CITY: Golconda

Chocolate Factory

The Chocolate Factory prides itself in offering quality gourmet chocolates in a wide variety of mouth watering flavor, formulated with only the finest ingredients. Our irresistible silky smooth blended chocolates make delicious rich candies for any occasion!

CITY: Golconda

Cedar Hill River Resort

One and two bedroom cabins nestled in the Shawnee National Forest along the Ohio River. Each cabin is fully furnished with a private setting and breathtaking view. Whether you are planning a family vacation or a private getaway weekend, Cedar Hill River Resort is the place to experience one of Illinois' best kept secrets.

CITY: Elizabethtown

River Rose Inn - Elizabethtown

The River Rose Inn Bed & Breakfast offers luxurious accommodations and gourmet breakfasts served in the formal dining room. Inside the inn you may relax in the formal living room or the cozy parlor on the second floor. The wraparound mosaic tile porch provides the perfect excuse to watch the paddle wheelers and barges meander by or simply delight in the morning and evening breezes under the Magnolia Tree.

CITY: Elizabethtown

Arrowhead Lodge

Affordable family lodging in the heart of the Shawnee Forest. Furnished lodges include kitchenettes, private baths with amenities. Perfect for travelers, hunters, fishermen, hikers. Excellent hunting and fishing on both private and federal land. Minutes from Garden of the Gods, Rim Rock Trail, Pounds Hollow Lake, High Knob, River to River, Jones Lake/Saline Recreation Area, Cave-In-Rock, Lakes Tucumseh & Whoopie Cat, Iron Furnace, Tower Rock, Stone Face, Ohio River and much more. Children and pets welcome. Centrally located 6 miles North of Elizabethtown and 4 miles South of Karbers Ridge.

CITY: Elizabethtown

John Marshall House Museum

The third oldest brick building in Illinois and the first bank before Illinois was a state. This 2-story museum, only steps away from the Ohio River, displays pioneer furnishings, documents, photos and historic memorabilia.

CITY: Old Shawneetown

American Fluorite Museum

The American Fluorite museum is located on the site of the Rosiclare Fluorspar and Mining Co., which was once the largest fluorspar mining company in the U.S. It features photographs, ore specimens, mining paraphernalia and colorful dioramas.

CITY: Rosiclare

Marshall House

Tour one of the oldest brick buildings in Illinois, now a two-story museum with pioneer furnishings, documents and historic memorabilia. A Lewis & Clark historical marker is also located in Shawneetown.

CITY: Shawneetown

Rose Hotel State Historic Site

The Rose Hotel is believed to have been constructed around 1830 by James McFarland, and operated as a tavern and inn serving Ohio River travelers. It is currently run as a bed and breakfast.

CITY: Elizabethtown

Williams Hill Pass

The bunkhouse cabins accommodate four people. Each cabin includes heat, air-conditioning, electricity, table and chairs, a full bed bunk bed and linens. Picnic tables and fire rings are provided outside the cabins for meal preparation. Showers and bathrooms are located in the air conditioned shower house at the Welcome Center. Williams Hill Pass is a family-oriented OHV park located between Mitchellville and Rudement just off Illinois Route 34 in southern Saline County on the north slope of Williams Hill, the highest point in Southern Illinois.

CITY: Harrisburg

Hogg Hollow Winery

View works by local artists and enjoy free wine tasting at this Golconda winery.

CITY: Golconda

River Rose Inn Bed And Breakfast

Elegant Greek Gothic mansion nestled on the historic Ohio River. Four luxurious rooms plus a romantic cottage. Private baths, fireplaces, outdoor swimming pool, and whirlpool tubs for two. Gourmet breakfast included.

CITY: Elizabethtown

Buel House

Situated at the base of the Ohio River bluffs, this two-story log structure, built in 1840, has been continuously occupied by generations of one family for 146 years. It was listed on the National Registry of Historic Places in 1976.

CITY: Golconda

Bay City Cabin

Two Bedroom, two bath, equipped kitchen, large deck with screened porch overlooking the Ohio River at the site of the filming of US Marshal. Boat ramp 1/2 mile.

CITY: Golconda

The Corn Crib

Offers locally grown strawberries, Mirai sweet corn, potatoes, cabbage, cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, green beans, turnips, melons and zucchini. Open mid June to mid October, Monday through Friday 9am to 6pm and Saturday 9am to 3pm. Closed on Sundays.

CITY: Shawneetown

Lost Coyote Camp

One room cabin rental near hunting, fishing, biking and horseback riding areas.

CITY: Simpson

China Buffet Harrisburg

Delicious Chinese Food Buffet to take out or eat in. Lunch and Dinner and Saturday and Sunday it's all day Buffet.

CITY: Harrisburg

A-Frame at Cave-in-Rock, The

A-frame cabin located along the Ohio River National Scenic Byway overlooking the Ohio River on Tower Rock Road west of Cave-in-Rock. Managed by Anne and Marty Kaylor, concessionaires at Cave-in-Rock State Park Lodge.

CITY: Cave-in-rock

Mackie's Pizza of Harrisburg

The best place in Harrisburg for homemade pizza from the crust, thick or thin, to the homemade sauce and toppings. Also, great stromboli, 5 kinds of salads, and cheese bread stix.

CITY: Harrisburg

Austin Acres Kamp Outback

Affordable family lodging, cabins, campers and primitive camping. One cabin has kitchenette, covered shelter, air, tv/vcr, wood burning stove, electric and water shower available. One cabin has sleeping for six or more, electric, water, grill and shaded area. We have excellent walking and riding trails, 40 acres. Horses welcome. Lots of shaded areas for tent camping and fishing pond. We are minutes away from Ohio River, Tower Rock Park boat ramp, Elizabethtown boat ramp, good eating places, LakeTucumseh and Woopie Cat, Iron Furnace, Stone Face, Garden of the Gods, Rim Rock, Cave-in-Rock and lots of scenic views. Children and pets welcome.

CITY: Elizabethtown

Lake Glendale Beach & Campground

Beautiful beach located on the shore of an 80 acres lake in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest. Beach open Memorial Day-Labor Day, 7 days a week. Concessions available

CITY: Glendale

Thomas Farmhouse

Fully-furnished kitchen and linens. Sleeps 8.

CITY: Golconda

Allen's Apartment

Apartment with 7 beds and 1½ baths.

CITY: Golconda

The Thomas House Bed & Breakfast

Country setting with a view of Shawnee National Forest. Guests have access to the whole house. Children welcome. Basement games, outdoor enjoyment, full breakfast on sun porch, common room with fireplace, pool table, and private jogging road.

CITY: Junction

Little Lusk Trail Lodge

6 lodge rooms with full baths, fireplace and big screen TV with satellite dish.

CITY: Eddyville

Tequilas Mexican Restaurant Harrisburg

Authentic Mexican food; the best in Saline County.

CITY: Harrisburg

Shawnee Hills Country Club

This fun, challenging course includes nine, 36 par holes, and is open spring, summer and fall. The club offers a full pro shop and snack bar.

CITY: Harrisburg

Cedar Hill River Resort

One and two bedroom cabins nestled in the Shawnee National Forest along the Ohio River. Each cabin is fully furnished with a private setting and breathtaking view. Whether you are planning a family vacation or a private getaway weekend, Cedar Hill River Resort is the place to experience one of Illinois' best kept secrets. Owners: Mike and Carol Tipsord

CITY: Elizabethtown

Rosiclare River Walk

Located in Rosiclare City Park, the River Walk offers great views of the Ohio River. The walk is handicapped accessible with benches for those who want to rest and enjoy the view.

CITY: Rosiclare

Comfort Inn

Modern motel, built in 2000, with king and queen beds, indoor pool, continental breakfast, tourism information and more. Only minutes from Garden of the Gods Rec. Area and Shawnee Nat'l Forest.

CITY: Harrisburg

Shawnee Homeplace

Shawnee Homeplace is a two-bedroom brick home with modern comforts in the middle of 450 acres along the Ohio River three miles southwest of Rosiclare. Enjoy the trails, Ohio River frontage, abundant wildlife or the peace and quiet of the porch. Owner: Laura Lamar. Mailing address PO Box 329, Elizabethtown, IL 62931 Opening: April 2009 (1 rental ).

CITY: Rosiclare

The Refuge

1500 sq. ft. 2 bedroom, 1 bath, full kitchen, large living room. 4 twin beds, 1 king and 1 full bed. 1/2 block off Main St in Golconda. Boat parking available. All are welcome.

CITY: Golconda

Shawnee Chief Motel

This mom and pop motel has been family owned since 1958 and offers the traveler relaxing accommodations close to the scenic Ohio River and the Shawnee National Forest. Nineteen units plus six efficiency are available.

CITY: Shawneetown

Cave in Rock Motel

Reasonably priced sleeping units one mile North of Cave In Rock on Hwy 1. Located at the entrance to the Shawnee National Forest. Seven units near Garden of the Gods, Cave In Rock, free ferry across the Ohio to Kentucky and Amish Country, Rim Rock/Pounds Hollow Lake, Tower Rock and all that Southern Illinois has to offer. Extremely affordable rates.

CITY: Cave In Rock

Cave In Rock Motel

Seven units, ac, children 15 and under free.

CITY: Cave-in-rock

Dixon Springs State Park

Dixon Springs State Park is one of several state parks in the Illinois Shawnee Hills. Park visitors may enjoy the varied wildlife, take a swim in the outdoor pool or simply soak up the relaxing atmosphere of the moss-covered boulders, craggy overhangs, and rushing brook.

CITY: Golconda

Little Lusk Trail Lodge & Campground

Centrally located in the Shawnee National forest, campgrounds have all the hookups; lodge has 6 rooms; beach, fishing, horseback riding at its best; box stalls for horses; hunters welcome; great hiking & mountain biking.

CITY: Stonefort

The Rose Hotel Bed & Breakfast

Built 1812, one of the oldest "hotels" still in existence; listed on the national register of historic places. The stately home with a sweeping verando and gazebo over looks the mighty Ohio River. Gourmet breakfast.

CITY: Elizabethtown

Blue House, The

This charming old house is located in the historic town of Elizabethtown on the Ohio River Scenic Byway, dating back to the late nineteenth century. The country style furnishings throughout the house will make you feel right at home. There are two bedrooms and two baths, plus a large living room and dining room. A full kitchen provides you the opportunity to prepare what you prefer or you can dine at one of the local restaurants. The large yard provides privacy but allows plenty of room for play. You will enjoy the great view of the Ohio River with your morning coffee, or while enjoying a glass of wine in the evening from one of the regions wineries. Owner: Larry Brinker

CITY: Elizabethtown

E'Town River Restaurant

Floating restaurant right on the Ohio River, with fresh catfish served daily.

CITY: Elizabethtown

Golconda Dari-Barr

coffee shop restaurant

CITY: Golconda

Mitchellsville Country Store

Hot food, sodas, snacks, fresh baked Mennonite breads and desserts along with groceries and gasoline. Owners: Jim and Melissa Kuhlmann and David and Debbie Fox.

CITY: Harrisburg

Harbison's Country Market

Deli sandwiches, burgers, fish on Fridays, groceries and gas. Located on the way to Garden of the Gods. Formerly Shaffer's Country Store.

CITY: Herod

Pleasant View Lodging

Lodging nestled in the heart of the Shawnee Forest. One furnished cabin (sleeps up to 4) and one furnished modern modular home (sleeps 5-7) that includes all amenities. Perfect for travelers and hunters. Located on private ground that joins government land. Located close to Garden of the Gods, Rim Rock Trail, Pounds Hollow Lake, High Know and other recreational sites.

CITY: Elizabethtown

Strictly Outdoors Outfitters

This 12,000 Sq. Ft. store, just minutes from the Shawnee National Forest, has it all for the outdoorsman; fishing, camping, hunting & hiking equipment, boots, canoes, shoes, and even information on places to go and things to do in So. Illinois.

CITY: Harrisburg

The Book Emporium

17,000 sq. feet of books! Over 1000 cookbooks; classics, novels, religious & childrens section, collectible paper back romances, westerns, local and war books. Bring in your re-read books for trade; will special order on any book still in publication.

CITY: Harrisburg

Dutton's Cafe

Family style with seating for 100. In business for over 20 years. Private dining room available for specials occasions. Specialties are catfish and blue gill. Plate lunch daily.

CITY: Cave In Rock

GeeJays

Family style home cooking, with daily specials.

CITY: Cave In Rock

Michael's Motel

Locally owned motel. Clean, secure, boat hook-ups, ample parking and cable TV.

CITY: Golconda

Horseshoe Bend Campground

Located in ridge above creek, over two mile creek bank fishing, natural marina on three mile creek, peaceful, scenic beauty.

CITY: Rosiclare

Austin Acres Kamp Outback

Affordable family lodging, camping cabins, campers and primitive camping. One cabin has kitchenette, covered shelter, air, TV/VCR, wood burning stove, electric and water shower available. One cabin has sleeping for six or more, electric, water, grill and shaded area. We have excellent walking and riding trails on 40 acres. Horses welcome. Lots of shaded areas for tent camping and fishing pond. Pets and children welcome.

CITY: Elizabethtown

Bri-Onna's

Specializing in good home cooking, just north of Cave In Rock on Rt 1.

CITY: Cave In Rock

Saline County Conservation Area

Long before the first settlers appeared, the Indians made salt from their "Great Salt Springs." This site encompasses nearly 1,250 acres of bottomland and heavily timbered hills.

CITY: Equality

Lake Glendale Stables

Trail ride in beautiful Southern Illinois. Hourly to full-day rates. Over night pack trips and lunch or dinner outings. Group rates and boarding available. Great horses for all riders, experienced or not. Professional guides, cool wooded trails.

CITY: Golconda

Rose Clare Crafts and Antique Mall

16 vendors in an old storefront.

CITY: Rosiclare

Shawneetown Bank

A fine example of Greek Revival architecture, the Shawneetown Bank was constructed in 1839-41 to house the offices of the Bank of Illinois at Shawneetown. The building housed numerous financial institutions into the 1930s.

CITY: Shawneetown

Bear Branch Log Cabin Restaurant

A rustic, authentic, log cabin restaurant set on the highest hill in Pope County. It is the centerpiece in The Bear Branch Horse Resort, a horse camp with 80 campsites and 6 cabins. Features down-home country cooking including catfish and steaks. The Rustic Log Cabin Restaurant, open Friday through Sunday, offers a quiet setting, great food, and a spectacular view. On regular weekends we open Friday & Saturday at 4 p.m. for dinner, Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. for breakfast. We also offer extended restaurant hours on Holiday weekends. Open all week during May and October (when reservations permit).

CITY: Eddyville

Old Shawneetown

Old Shawneetown features the first state bank in Illinois, built 1839-1840 in the Greek Revival style of architecture. Designed with four stories and five massive front columns, it looks out over the levy on the Ohio River.

CITY: Old Shawneetown

The Red Onion

Two-inch pork chops prime rib, steak, and catfish dinners. Also sandwiches.

CITY: Equality

Bay City General Store

Come sit on the front porch where Tommy Lee Jones rocked during the filming of US Marshals. Enjoy a soda and a gooey moon pie and hear the cha-ching of a 1913 cash register.

CITY: Golconda

Rudy's Barbeque

Rudy's is a full menu family restaurant since 1932, started by Rudy "King of Hobos." Seating for 70 and available for groups. Specialty house barbeque sauces for sale.

CITY: Shawneetown

Golconda Marina

One of the finest fishing and boating areas in the nation, this marina is the gateway to the Ohio River's Smithland Pool, constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The 619-acre full-service boat marina has more than 200 slips.

CITY: Golconda