Shawnee National Forest Tours and Activities

Things to do near Shawnee National Forest

Shawnee National Forest offers diverse camping options, including tent sites and cozy cabins for a comfortable stay. Popular camping areas like the Campground at Pine Hills provide scenic views. Enjoy hiking along renowned trails such as the River to River Trail and the scenic Garden of the Gods. These trails offer breathtaking vistas and unique rock formations, making them some of the best hikes in the area for outdoor enthusiasts.

Recreation

Experience the serene beauty of the Garden of the Gods Recreation Area, perfect for relaxation and hiking amidst stunning rock formations. For sports enthusiasts, Shawnee Hills Country Club offers a delightful golf experience in a picturesque setting, while Marion Stadium provides thrilling sports events to enjoy.

Adventure

Explore the Tunnel Hill State Trail, located 27.4km from Shawnee National Forest, for a scenic hike amidst nature's beauty. The Garden of the Gods Trailhead, 22.5km away, offers stunning vistas, while the Hitching Post Trailhead, 17.7km from the forest, invites you to experience outdoor adventure.

Nightlife

For a lively night near Shawnee National Forest, visit Ross Cottom Lanes, an arcadeAdventureZone 25.7km away, perfect for family fun. Alternatively, experience the excitement at Harrah's Metropolis Casino, located 45.1km away, where romance and city vibes blend with thrilling games.

Find the best attractions near Shawnee National Forest

Shawnee National Forest in Illinois offers a variety of attractions perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Explore the stunning landscapes of national and urban parks, and discover picturesque locations throughout the forest. Don't miss the chance to visit notable Shawnee National Forest campgrounds, which serve as excellent bases for your adventures. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences or just a peaceful retreat, Shawnee has something for every traveller.

• Dixon Springs State Park: Experience the thrill of outdoor adventure in this picturesque park, located 17.7km from Shawnee National Forest. With lush scenery, hiking trails, and picnic areas, it’s an ideal spot for nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the outdoors.
• Harrisburg Township Park District: Situated 22.5km from Shawnee National Forest, this urban park offers a family-friendly environment filled with recreational activities. Enjoy the city vibes as you explore playgrounds, sports facilities, and walking paths, perfect for a day of fun with loved ones.
• Saline County Area Museum: Located 20.9km away, this museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the area. Dive into local history through engaging exhibits that celebrate the community’s past, making it a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shawnee National Forest

Shawnee National Forest is a budget-friendly destination with free entry and nearby attractions like Dixon Springs State Park. To save on accommodation, consider visiting between December and February when prices are lower, with Tuesdays being the cheapest days to stay. Use Expedia's search tool to find affordable hotels by sorting prices and filtering for eco-certified options. Additionally, package deals combining flights, hotels, and activities can help you save even more. Keep an eye out for special offers and best rates to maximise your savings during your visit.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Shawnee National Forest are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to June, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Shawnee National Forest is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Shawnee National Forest is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel category—simply select the "Eco-certified" filter to discover sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations ready for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay at Shawnee National Forest with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.