Shawnee National Forest

Illinois


An exception to Illinois' flat farmland is the green southernmost section, punctuated by rolling Shawnee National Forest and its rocky outcroppings. The area has numerous state parks and recreation areas good for hiking, climbing, swimming, fishing and canoeing, particularly around Little Grassy Lake and Devil's Kitchen.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Illinois attractions

1. Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge

18.12 MILES

You certainly don't expect to find a Southern-style swampland, complete with moss-draped cypress trees and croaking bullfrogs in Illinois. But it's here,…

2. Bellrose Viewing Platform

18.13 MILES

This small viewing platform looks out over Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge and is a fine spot for ogling migratory birds, waterfowl and shorebirds.