Garden of the Gods Recreation Area

Explore the rock formations, cliffs and trails of the most visited site in the Shawnee National Forest. See Camel Rock, Anvil Rock, Devil's Smoke Stack and more.

For more information:

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 or tee off at the 27-hole Rend Lake Golf Course. Also located at Rend Lake is the Southern Illinois Art & Artisans Center, featuring more than 800 artists.

For more information:

Cave-in-Rock State Park

The highlight of Cave-in-Rock is the 55-foot wide cave. Visitors can view this historic rock formation, plus other trails, picnic, camp or go boating all on the beautiful Ohio River. Lodging and restaurant also available.

For more information:

Tunnel Hill State Trail

This trail provides hiking and biking opportunities through farmland, hills/bluffs and bottomland areas. One may even travel through the Cache River State Natural Area and Shawnee National Forest on the trail.

For more information:

Shawnee Hills Wine Trail

The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail features 12 wineries, 12 experiences, located 10 minutes of one another and surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest. Along the way, have a picnic, go on a hike, visit a shop, stay in a B&B or cabin.

For more information:

Wabash Valley Wine Trail

The Wabash Valley Wine Trail joins five wineries in the southeastern part of the state. Visitors to this area can enjoy the scenic Wabash River valley with its historical sites such as the Lincoln and George Rogers Clark Memorials. Historic towns in the area have a rich collection of local art as well as antique shops. There are some quaint bed and breakfasts in the area also. Each winery offers their own unique wines and wine making styles. You can enjoy our local wines while enveloped in the beauty of the area.

For more information:

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.

For more information:

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.

For more information:

Tunnel Hill State Trail

This trail provides hiking and biking opportunities through farmland, hills/bluffs and bottomland areas. One may even travel through the Cache River State Natural Area and Shawnee National Forest on the trail.

For more information:

Giant City State Park

Spactacular 3694 acres of woods and sandstone rock formations. Park is great for hiking, picknicking and camping. Also features a beautiful rustic lodge with restaurant & cabins. Offers a swimming pool, horseback riding stables and lookout tower.

For more information:

Bald Knob Cross

An interdenominational, national symbol of faith, this 111 foot tall cross, when illuminated at night, can be seen over an area of 7500 square miles, atop the most prominent elevation in So. IL. Surrounded by the beauty of Shawnee National Forest.

For more information: