Photography Shawnee National Forest

Photography Shawnee National Forest

Shawnee National Forest, located in southern Illinois, is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers alike. With its rugged terrain, stunning vistas, and diverse wildlife, there is no shortage of opportunities for photography in this breathtaking wilderness. Whether you are an amateur or a professional photographer, Shawnee National Forest offers a wealth of opportunities to capture stunning images of nature’s beauty.

Here are some tips and ideas for photography in Shawnee National Forest:

Explore the Trails:

The forest has over 280 miles of trails, ranging from easy to challenging, that offer great opportunities to capture the natural beauty of the area. Whether you are looking for sweeping views of the forest, tranquil waterways, or unique rock formations, there is a trail that will take you there. Some popular trails for photography include the Garden of the Gods Trail, the River-to-River Trail, and the Little Grand Canyon Trail.

Wildlife Photography:

Shawnee National Forest is home to a wide range of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, bobcats, foxes, and a variety of bird species. With some patience and a little luck, you may be able to capture some stunning shots of these animals in their natural habitat. Some popular areas for wildlife photography include the Panther Den Wilderness, the Burden Falls Wilderness, and the Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area.

Waterfalls:

The forest is home to several stunning waterfalls that offer great opportunities for photography. One of the most popular is the Ferne Clyffe Waterfall, which cascades over a sandstone cliff and is surrounded by lush vegetation. Another popular waterfall is the Burden Falls, which is located in the Burden Falls Wilderness area and can be accessed via a short hike.

Sunrise and Sunset:

The forest’s rugged terrain and sweeping vistas make it a great place to capture the beauty of sunrise and sunset. One popular spot for sunset photography is the Garden of the Gods Observation Trail, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Autumn Colors:

Fall is a particularly beautiful time to visit Shawnee National Forest, as the trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. The forest’s scenic drives, such as the Ohio River Scenic Byway, provide great opportunities for capturing the autumn colors.

Night Photography:

The forest’s remote location and lack of light pollution make it an ideal location for capturing the beauty of the night sky. You can capture stunning shots of the Milky Way, star trails, and even the Northern Lights if you are lucky.

Historic Sites:

In addition to its natural beauty, Shawnee National Forest is also home to several historic sites that offer great opportunities for photography. One such site is the Kincaid Mounds State Historic Site, which features the remains of an ancient Native American civilization. Another is the Tower Rock National Historic Site, which played an important role in the history of the area’s early explorers and settlers.

Overall, Shawnee National Forest offers a wealth of opportunities for photography enthusiasts. Whether you are interested in landscape, wildlife, or historic photography, this stunning wilderness area has something for everyone. So, pack your camera and start exploring the beauty of Shawnee National Forest.