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

Tunnel Hill State Trail

This scenic 45-mile-long hiking and biking trail runs along a converted rail bed through farmland, hills/bluffs and bottomland areas.The trail passes through the Shawnee National Forest and Cache River State Natural Area, with railroad trestles and an old train tunnel as picturesque markers along the way.

CITY: Vienna

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

Mermet Springs

Scuba dive at this unique spring-fed stone quarry and marvel at underwater treasures such as a submerged airplane (actually used in the movie U.S. Marshals) and a cement petting zoo. Mermet Springs offers on-site instruction and equipment rental.

CITY: Belknap

Giant City State Park

Spectacular woodlands and sheer sandstone walls create a challenge for rock climbing and rappelling, as well as hiking. Outdoor lovers will also find horseback riding, a lookout tower, cabins and a swimming pool. Dine at historic Giant City Lodge, known for its homemade fried chicken dinner.

CITY: Makanda

Carlyle Lake

The largest man-made lake in Illinois (26,000 acres), is a premier location for outdoor sports. We known to sailors, it is one of the best and most challenging for sailboats. There is also boating, fishing, hunting, bird watching, sand beaches, and camping areas. Hotels, cabins and golf courses make the area a true outdoor lover's playground.

CITY: Carlyle

Pomona Natural Bridge

This natural geologic sandstone formation spans 90 feet across a ravine in a mature beech, oak and hickory forest. Nearby is an easy hiking trail dotted with picnic sites.

CITY: Pomona

Superman Statue

Visit Superman Square in Metropolis to have your picture taken with the 15-foot-tall statue of the Man of Steel. A statue of Lois Lane is located nearby. Across the street is the Super Museum, showcasing rare Superman memorabilia and selling superhero souvenirs.

CITY: Metropolis

Giant City Lodge

The 34 cabins offered at Giant City State Park include 12 one-room cabins and duplex cabins nestled in the bluffs near the lodge, featuring a living room and deck overlooking the woods below. An outdoor swimming pool is on site. Giant City Lodge's full-service restaurant features a popular all-you-can eat chicken dinner. Closed Dec. and Jan. every year.

CITY: Makanda

Cache River State Natural Area

Nationally renowned for its ancient cypress-tupelo swamp, this natural area contains 100 threatened or endangered plant and animal species, and 11 state champion trees. Visitors enjoy birding, hunting, wildlife watching, and hiking. Bikers can access the Cache River via the Tunnel Hill State Trail.

CITY: Belknap

Egyptian Hills Resort

Egyptian Hills Resort is your passport to the Ultimate outdoor family vacation. Whether you are into waterskiing, wakeboarding, tubing, sport fishing, or pleasure boating; the Lake of Egypt is a boater’s paradise. All within a stone’s throw of your cabin. Within minutes of your cabin, your family can enjoy guided expeditions such as; horseback riding, rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, geo-caching, wildlife photography and many other outdoor activities. Whether planning a single activity or multiple activities for your group, we at Egyptian Hills are your personal concierge in planning your ultimate outdoor family vacation. Whether onsite or through one of our partner guides, all activities are tailored for all ages and experience levels.

CITY: Creal Springs

Rustic Hideaway Cabins

Private log cabins in a wooded setting. Hot tub on covered back deck. Full kitchen including dishes. TV/VCR. Linens and paper products supplied. Fireplace. Loft.

CITY: Jonesboro

Shawnee Hills Wine Trail

The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail features 12 award-winning wineries located along a 25-mile scenic drive along highway 127 and highway 51 in the Shawnee National Forest. Along the way have a picnic, go on a hike, visit a shop, and stay in a cozy B&B or cabin. Many of the wineries host special events throughout the summer and fall.

CITY: Carbondale

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

Blue Sky Vineyard

Along the majestic Shawnee Hills Wine Trail you’ll find Blue Sky Vineyard—a stunning Tuscan-inspired winery and vineyard. Stroll through the vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and relax on the outdoor terrace with the rolling countryside as your tapestry.

CITY: Makanda

Rend Lake

It's all about the water at Rend Lake, where you can swim, boat, water ski and fish. Relax at Rend Lake Resort, tee off at the 27-hole Rend Lake Golf Course or do some target practice at the Rend Lake Shooting Complex. Also located at Rend Lake is the Southern Illinois Art & Artisans Center, featuring more than 800 artists.

CITY: Benton

Makanda Boardwalk

This historic boardwalk dates back to the 1890s. Today it offers galleries featuring quality handcrafts created by local artisans and a country store.

CITY: Makanda

Alto Vineyards - Alto Pass

This award-winning winery's original Shawnee Hills Wine Trail location (Alto also has a Champaign outpost) offers free wine tasting and a gift shop, in addition to spring, summer and fall festivals with music and food.

CITY: Alto Pass

Kite Hill Vineyards Bed and Breakfast

Kite Hill's B&B is located on a 30-acre estate with a five-acre vineyard, all surrounding Kite Hill Lake. Start your day with a full three-course breakfast followed by a stroll through the vineyards or around the lake. After a full day of Southern Illinois activities, enjoy a complimentary wine tasting at the winery.

CITY: Carbondale

Big Creek Cabins

Big Creek Cabins is the perfect place for a romantic weekend or quick getaway from the busy rush of daily life. The moment you check-in to our fully furnished luxury log cabin, you can’t help but to slow down and relax. Unwind and get chin deep in the hot tub on the large cover decks overlooking a private pond all situated on 20 very secluded acres. Perhaps enjoy a game a pool on the executive pool table by the fireplace with family or good friends. There are many reasons why Big Creek Cabins is quickly becoming the most popular cabin retreat in Southern Illinois, but we want to personally invite you to a place where memories are made and experience them first hand.

CITY: Dongola

Super Museum

The Super Museum houses the mythical caped hero from the big green planet. The museum is filled with a $2.5 billion collection spanning 60 years, honoring the most famous hero of all time.

CITY: Metropolis

The Science Center of Southern Illinois

This center was designed for children ages 3-13 and their families. The science museum features several interactive hands-on exhibits dealing with a variety of basic concepts of science, as well as special events and programs.

CITY: Carbondale

Southern Illinois Wine Trail

Illinois' newest wine trail connects six wineries dotted throughout the southeast corner of the state. Visitors can enjoy both breathtaking vistas and friendly rural communities, all while sampling excellent red and white wines.

CITY: Vienna

Bob's Civil War Fort

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Germantown is a Civil War Fort. There is a jail, civil war cannons, a stage coach, a livery, log cabins, and much more.

CITY: Germantown

17th Street Bar & Grill

17th Street Bar & Grill offers a variety of award-winning barbeque and American favorites. Bon Appétit magazine picked 17th Street Bar & Grill's apple wood-smoked barbecue ribs as the best in the U.S. in 2007. Owner and pitmaster Mike Mills, reverently referred to in barbecue circles as The Legend, is a four-time World Champion and three-time Grand World Champion of Memphis in May, known as the Super Bowl of Swine. Pick up a bottle of 17th Street's award-winning barbecue sauce or Magic Dust rub while you're there.

CITY: Murphysboro

Stone Creek Golf Club & Resort

Nestled in the Shawnee National Forest, Stone Creek features an 18 hole-championship course and beautiful cabins. Stone Creek also offers a restaurant, clubhouse, and a scenic area for hiking and fishing.

CITY: Makanda

Bald Knob Cross

A national symbol of faith, this 111-foot-tall cross, when illuminated at night, can be seen over an area of 7,500 square miles atop the most prominent elevation in Southern Illinois. The cross is surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest.

CITY: Alto Pass

Cedar Rock Cabins

Fully furnished cabins in the Shawnee National Forest. Wooded paths wind up and down the hills past rock formations. Enjoy the screened in porch at dusk and view area wildlife. Relax in the hot tub under the stars.

CITY: Goreville

Southern Illinois Golf Trail

Golf is always in season on the Southern Illinois Golf Trail, where the mild weather allows for golfing nearly year round. Start putting in Marion and make the rounds through all five of the Trail courses—Kokopelli, Crab Orchard, Hickory Ridge, Stone Creek and Gambit—ending in the lush green hills of the Shawnee National Forest.

CITY: Carbondale

Flamm Orchards/Fruits & Cream Stand

Take a drive out to the orchards and buy in-season strawberries, peaches and apples. Flamm's Fruits & Cream Stand offers treats like homemade strawberry shortcake, cobblers, apple dumplings and pies.

CITY: Cobden

Boars Nest Cabins

Located close to most of the award winning wineries of Southern Illinois, the Boars Nest will be off the beaten path yet still close to town in a peaceful atmosphere. All non-smoking cabins with packages available, including meals, drinks, transportation.

CITY: Cobden

Historic Town Square & Downtown Carbondale

Twenty-five historic buildings ring Carbondale's nostalgic Town Square. When Daniel Harmon Brush, Carbondale's founding father, filed the original 56-acre plat of Carbondale in 1852, almost 10 acres were left open in the center of town. Today you can shop charming locally owned boutiques here, ranging from bike shops to furniture stores.

CITY: Carbondale

Cache River Wetlands Center

The Wetlands Center provides a one-stop shop for information about the Cache River Wetlands and its recreational and educational opportunities. The center has an extensive natural and cultural history exhibit, wildlife viewing, trails and a video.

CITY: Cypress

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

Arrowhead Lake

Located on the northeast corner of Johnston City, this 35-acre lake includes a paved boat ramp for fishing, walking path, and campground. Only electric motors and canoes are permitted. You will find largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black and white crappie, and channel catfish in this small reservoir.

CITY: Johnston City

Owl Creek Vineyard and Winery

Producing world-class wines made from Southern Illinois grapes, Owl Creek is located near beautiful Giant City State Park, country bed and breakfasts, and antique shops. Wine by the glass may be enjoyed on the deck, or in the picnic area surrounded by the vineyard.

CITY: Cobden

Blueberry Hill Farm

U-pick strawberries, blueberries and blackberries in Season. May-July 8am to 8pm

CITY: Cobden

Lincoln-Douglas Statues

Located at Lincoln Memorial Park, visitors can "Walk Where Lincoln Walked" by following the presidents footsteps from Jonesboro Square to the park.

CITY: Jonesboro

Tom Cat Hill Cabins

Located off the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, 5 miles north of Alto Pass on IL 127,(2 miles from Cedar Lake) you will find these two luxury cabins, Cabin #1 accommodates eight. Cabin #2 accommodates two. The cabins offer wonderful amenities to create a relaxing enjoyable visit. Some of the special features are gourmet kitchen, hot tub, washer & dryer, gas fireplace; satellite TV, WiFi, DVD/VCR Player, central air & heat. Boat rental are available for patrons - pontoons, canoes, kayaks for use on nearby Cedar Lake. A great ending for a day would be relaxing in the hot tub or sitting on the deck overlooking the Shawnee National Forest, enjoy a glass of wine from any of the local wineries.

CITY: Carbondale

Bell Hill Bed & Breakfast

On a hill in Union County, Illinois, just outside of Cobden, stands a Historic Mansion with 5 guest rooms available. Every room provides all the conveniences of home to help make your stay as stress free as possible. Complimentary bottled water, cookies, chips, and chocolates also come with every room. Like traveling to a different time, each day spent in this home resonates the rich history of the land and the people who love it. Historic Bell Hill is the perfect place for large and small outdoor weddings or, if you prefer, a more intimate setting indoors is available for smaller weddings. Catering services are available.

CITY: Cobden

Ohio River Scenic Byway

The 188-mile scenic route begins at the Wabash Memorial Bridge in Gallatin County and ends at Fort Defiance Park in historic Cairo. Sights along the way include the Garden of the Gods, Cave-in-Rock, Elizabethtown, the quaint river town of Golconda, and Metropolis, the home of Superman.

CITY: Metropolis

Curtis House Museum

Built in 1870 by Major Elijah P Curtis after the Civil War. The woodwork and other features of the home are unusual.

CITY: Metropolis

Rainbow Ranch Petting Farm

Meet the wide range of animals at this real working farm. Bottle feed kids and lambs. Pet the goats, camels, chicks, rabbits, camels and even two zebras.

CITY: Nashville

Marberry Arboretum

The arboretum houses more than 6,000 species of trees, plus shrubs, wildflowers and wildlife. A hiking trail takes you through the woods and past stones from a Shawnee Indian Council fire.

CITY: Carbondale

Kinkaid Lake Marina Cabins

If you like to fish, enjoy the beautiful outdoors, for boating, hiking, relaxing rent a cabin that puts you right on the edge of beautiful Kinkaid Lake, Muskie fishing at your fingertips!

CITY: Murphysboro

Doc's Lakeside Cabin

If you’re looking to get away from it all, you’ve come to the right place. At Doc's Lakeside Cabin we’ll give you the most spectacular view in Southern Illinois. Doc's Lakeside Cabin was built in 2012 and is located in beautiful Southern Illinois. Accommodations include: 2 bedrooms with queen size bed in each room, 1 Full Bath with Shower, Fully furnished kitchen, Living/Great Room, Spacious Hot Tub, ?and, Screened Balcony. Guest are welcome to enjoy a leisure time of fishing in our lake.

CITY: Jonesboro

Bruce Goff - Castle

The Castle is a premiere architectural delight atop a forested bluff in the area of the Shawnee National Forest. Accommodations for up to three acquainted couples. The Castle has a sunken tub and is a great 'outdoors' experience.

CITY: Cobden

Hickory Ridge Golf Course

This 18-hole golf center is the highest-rated public golf course in Southern Illinois, earning four stars from Golf Digest. The course offers discounted "twilight hours" rates for unlimited play after 4pm.

CITY: Carbondale

The African American Museum of Southern Illinois

Permanent exhibits here include African art collections and slave artifacts. Rotating displays have included Underground Railroad message quilts and local artwork. The museum's changing exhibits seek to portray the outstanding achievements of African American citizens.

CITY: Carbondale

Harrah's Metropolis Casino

Located on the picturesque Ohio River, Harrah's offers 1,172 classic and new slots, along with 27 table games. Harrah's Riverfront Event Center presents live shows, including big-name entertainers and professional boxing matches. Harrah's often offers special stay-and-play packages at its 252-room hotel that's located adjacent to the casino.

CITY: Metropolis

Touch of Nature

Touch of nature is the location of the conference site. Accommodations include rustic cabins and motel style rooms. Rooms are basic but convenient to the meetings.

CITY: Makanda

Devil's Kitchen Cabins

2 cabins. Premier outdoor lodging deep in the woods of southern Illinois. It is perfect for a romantic getaway, vacation, or just a place to relax for peace and quiet.

CITY: Carbondale

Marion Cultural and Civic Center

The Marion Cultural and Civic Center serves Southern Illinois as an outlet for cultural and artistic opportunities of all types. MCCC is a 1094 seat performing arts center located in the historic town square of Marion, IL. In addition to providing a state-of-the-art theatrical facility at a low rental cost, MCCC also provides a portion of the lobby to display paintings and artwork from Southern Illinois artists.

CITY: Marion

Lofty Acres Bed & Breakfast

Master bedroom/bath on main floor, queen bed, whirlpool tub. 2 rooms/baths upstairs. Fireplace.

CITY: Dongola

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

Hidden Lake Winery

Walk the trails around the five-acre lake, or sit and enjoy the waterfall and views of the Silent Forest as you sip a glass of wine.

CITY: Aviston

Bandy's Pumpkin Patch

This fun fall destination (open Oct. 1-30) features mazes, inflatable games and face painting for the little ones, and hayrides. Grab a snack from the concession stand (try the sweet rock candy) before heading home with the perfect pumpkin.

CITY: Johnston City

Americana Hollywood Museum

An amazing tribute to America's most famous Hollywood icons, features life-size figures, wardrobes, costumes, movie props, posters, dolls, statues and celebrity collectibles from around the world. Americana Hollywood is a museum dedicated to Hollywood of yesterday and today. Located 2 blocks from Harrah’s Casino you will find collections from Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, James Dean, Pamela Anderson and Angelina Jolie, just to name a few. Come stroll through the outdoor statues and have your picture taken with the Blues Brothers or on the set of a Western ghost town. There is so much to see and do at this museum!

CITY: Metropolis

Campground Cumberland Church

Presbyterian church in continuous operation since 1850 and the site of a winter encampment during the Trail of Tears. Only site certified by state of Illinois and Cherokee Nation.

CITY: Anna

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

Rend Lake Golf Course

This 27-hole golf course, part of the Rend Lake Recreation Complex, was ranked as one of the best public courses in the Midwest by Golf Digest, which rated it 4-1/2 stars. Chicago architect Lawrence Packard designed the course with some fairways overlooking scenic Rend Lake. The on-site Seasons Lodge and Condominiums offers golf packages that let you stay close to the action.

CITY: Whittington

Drury Lane Llamas

Established in 1990, Drury Lane Llamas is located in the hills of Southern Illinois, at the edge of the Shawnee National Forest, and features a herd a furry friends.

CITY: Carbondale

Hidden Lake Bed and Breakfast

Nestled amongst 12 acres of woods, gardens and water, finely appointed guest rooms and suites welcome you to first class treatment and quiet country elegance. Fireplaces, jacuzzis, private balconies and private baths are just a few of the amenities.

CITY: Jonesboro

Dr. Poos Home - Heritage House Museum

Built in 1888, this home was occupied by Dr. Robert Poos, a local practitioner and druggist. Dr. Poos was also the staff physician at the Springs Hotel and Bath House, later known as the Okawville Original Springs Hotel.

CITY: Okawville

Windy Hill Acres Inn

Windy Hill Acres Inn is located in the Shawnee National Forest. The Inn is a Rock Potato House which has been remodeled into a beautiful 5 room house with deck. The Potato House was built in the 1800's and used to store the farmers' sweet potatoes.

CITY: Cobden

Honker Hill Winery

Honker Hill Winery is located on the highest point in Williamson County and surrounded by the Crab Orchard Fish and Wildlife Refuge and Shawnee National Forest, Honker Hill Winery produces fine Illinois wines from fruit grown directly at our vineyard. Enjoy great views from our patio near the fireplace, our unique wildlife room, or gazebo or a enjoy a stroll around one of our five large ponds located on the property while sipping on a glass of your favorite wine. Conveniently located mid-way between Marion and Carbondale within the Shawnee Hills American Viticultural Area, Honker Hill Winery is proud to be the newest member of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. Enjoy a visit to our cozy tasting room or experience a night in one of our suites during your next visit to southern Illinois.

CITY: Carbondale

Cedar Sunset Cabin

Two bedroom log cabin offers a private setting with full kitchen and a hot tub to soak in while you enjoy the amazing sunset views. The spectacular views at Cedar Sunset Cabin are just one of the amazing amenities. The cabin provides you with top notch accommodations on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail and on the edge of the Shawnee National Forest. Or you may opt for an evening in by the fireside or a soak in the hot tub.

CITY: Buncombe

Walkers Bluff Winery

Local winery with a General Store, 5 star cuisine at Legends Restaurant, wine cave, open air pavilion, gazebo and much more. Enjoy a glass of wine while listening to live entertainment. Boasts a large childrens play area, large handcarved sculptures, and even a full service gas station at the general store. You must visit to see the magnitude of this destination.

CITY: Carterville

How the West Was Won - Cave-in-Rock State Park

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: Cave-in-rock

Water Valley Inn

Water Valley Inn can accommodate individuals, couples, families and groups up to eight, based on double occupancy. The main floor of the farmhouse includes two bedrooms with queen size beds and one bathroom. The upstairs has three rooms set up with twin beds.

CITY: Cobden

Rend Lake Cabins in the Woods

Two cabins. Located off the southwest side of Rend Lake complete with full kitchen, two bedrooms, satellite TV, washer and dryer, front porch with swing, fire pit, barbecue grill and just 15 minutes off of Interstate 57.

CITY: Benton

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

Giant City Park Campground

Class A campground with separate tent and trailer camping for equestrians. Also, a youth group camp and primitive walk-in tent sites.

CITY: Makanda

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

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

Fort Massac State Park

State park and historic site. October's big Fort Massac Encampment and several other living history event weekends scheduled throughout the year bring the past to life for American history buffs. The visitor center offers exhibits, information & a short film.

CITY: Metropolis

Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park

3,300-acre peninsula in Rend Lake. Beautiful park offering boating, camping, and picnicking with shelters. Programs include pheasant hunting, field trials, and bass tournaments. Bicycle, horse trails, and stables.

CITY: Whittington

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

J-H Bison Ranch

Tours of this family-run bison ranch include baby bison feeding, herd tours, and photos with baby bison, llamas and horses.

CITY: Trenton

The Porch Basket

A unique one of a kind shop in downtown Eldorado, the Porch Basket offers a large line of hand woven baskets, country decor items, and a large line of basket weaving supplies. Call about basket weaving lessons.

CITY: Eldorado

Metropolis Murals

A series of six murals are painted on buildings along Ferry Street and Market Street in downtown Metropolis. Each mural reveals a different story and makes our heritage come alive through artistic renderings of local historical events. Interpretive plaques describe the historical significance of each.

CITY: Metropolis

Foundation Park

Home to the Balloon Fest, Foundation Park has many walking trails, nature areas, and gathering places.

CITY: Centralia

Gambit Golf Course

This championship par 71 golf course, designed by Richard Osborne, snakes through meadows and woodlands. The Gambit features the area's only indoor practice center, with two state-of-the-art golf simulators and a nine-hole practice green.

CITY: Vienna

Kincaid Mounds

Kincaid Mounds Archaeological Site is 4 miles south of Unionville Road on New Cut Road, Brookport, IL. Kincaid Mounds State Historic Site is a nationally significant Native-American archaeological treasure. From about 800 AD to 1500 AD it was the ‘capital' of a chiefdom that stretched from Brookport to Hamletsburg along the Ohio River. Large flat-topped mounds were erected on which the houses and temples of civil and religious elite stood. Today, the mounds still exist and a constructed overlook platform and interpretive panels tell the story of the significant contribution and historical value of this Native.

CITY: Brookport

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

University Mall

The University Mall is the centerpiece of Southern Illinois' most established retail district and is conveniently located near the crossroads of two of the regions most traveled arteries -- Route 13 and US 51. The mall features variety stores to meet your shopping needs!

CITY: Carbondale

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

Egyptian Hills Marina Lodging

Egyptian Hills Resort is your passport to the Ultimate outdoor family vacation. Whether you are into waterskiing, wakeboarding, tubing, sport fishing, or pleasure boating; the Lake of Egypt is a boater’s paradise. All within a stone’s throw of your cabin. Our cabins and chalets sit next to soothing, running streams and waterfalls – with breathtaking lake front views. Each cabin/chalet features a full kitchen, living room, large deck, full bedroom, 2 loft bedrooms and full bath.

CITY: Creal Springs

Super 8 - Harrisburg

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

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