Visit Historic Sites in Shawnee National Forest

Visit Historic Sites in Shawnee National Forest

Shawnee National Forest is a vast, 280,000-acre forest in southern Illinois, known for its rolling hills, stunning rock formations, and rich cultural history. It’s a great place to explore, and visitors can find many historic sites to visit while they’re there. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best historic sites to visit in Shawnee National Forest.

Garden of the Gods:

The Garden of the Gods is a must-see attraction in Shawnee National Forest. It’s a breathtaking natural rock formation that has been shaped by the wind and rain over millions of years. The site is easy to access, with paved trails that lead to the top of the rock formations. Visitors can also take guided tours to learn more about the history and geology of the area.

Rim Rock Trail:

Rim Rock Trail is a scenic trail that runs along the edge of a cliff overlooking the Ohio River. The trail takes visitors through a dense forest, with views of the river and the surrounding hills. At the end of the trail, visitors can explore the Rim Rock Recreational Trail, which features interpretive signs that explain the history of the area.

Fort Massac State Park:

Fort Massac State Park is a historic site that was once a French trading post and military fort. Today, visitors can explore the reconstructed fort and learn about its role in American history. The park also features a visitor center with exhibits on the history of the fort and the surrounding area.

Cave-In-Rock:

Cave-In-Rock is a massive limestone cave that was once a hideout for pirates and outlaws. Today, visitors can explore the cave and learn about its history. The cave is accessible by a short hike from the parking area, and visitors can also take guided tours.

Trail of Tears State Forest:

The Trail of Tears State Forest is a historic site that marks the trail that Native Americans were forced to walk during the Trail of Tears. Visitors can explore the site and learn about the history of the trail and the people who walked it.

Lincoln Heritage Trail:

The Lincoln Heritage Trail is a historic route that follows the path that Abraham Lincoln took as a young lawyer in Illinois. Visitors can explore the historic sites along the trail, including Lincoln’s home and law office in Springfield.

Dixon Springs State Park:

Dixon Springs State Park is a historic site that was once a popular spa resort in the 1800s. Visitors can explore the historic buildings and learn about the history of the area. The park also features hiking trails and a swimming pool.

Millstone Bluff:

Millstone Bluff is a historic site that was once a Native American village. Visitors can explore the site and learn about the history of the village and the people who lived there. The site also features hiking trails and scenic views of the surrounding area.

In conclusion, Shawnee National Forest is a beautiful and historic area that is full of amazing sites to explore. Whether you’re interested in the history of the area or just looking for a great place to hike, there’s something for everyone in Shawnee National Forest. So, plan your trip today and start exploring this amazing area!