About The Area

Discover Shawnee National Forest & Surroundings

Shawnee National Forest spans over 280,000 acres of rugged hills, canyons, springs, rock formations, and waterfalls and our southern Illinois rental cabin is right in the middle of it all! Folks flock to the area for many different southern Illinois activities ranging from hiking to hunting and everything in between. Must-see trails and natural features close to our cabin include:

Garden of the Gods Wilderness – famous stone vistas, Camel Rock overlook, especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
Bell Smith Springs – clear creeks, forest bridges, moderately easy to moderate trails.
Jackson Falls – a seasonal waterfall and popular spot for hiking and rock climbing.
Pounds Hollow Recreation Area – lake, scenic forest, great for daytime picnics and hikes.
Little Grand Canyon – dramatic canyon views and creek walks.
River to River Trail – long-distance hikers love this trail for its varied terrain and scenic quality.

Also nearby are Dixon Springs State Park, Millstone Bluff, Burden Falls, and Bell Smith Springs – all within 20-30 minute drives, offering waterfalls, swimming, picturesque overlooks, and forested peace. Your options for southern Illinois activities are endless!

Hunting Seasons & Nature Moments

Sport	Approximate Season(s)
Shotgun Deer Season	First shotgun season usually begins mid-November in Pope County.
Archery Season (Deer)	Often runs from October 1 through part of November, then again after Thanksgiving.
Small Game, Upland Game, Waterfowl	Varying dates (e.g., dove, pheasant, ducks) typically from early fall into winter.

Local Festivals & Events

Fluorspar Festival (Rosiclare, IL)
Sasquatch Festival (Harrisburg, IL)
Junque Jamboree (Vienna, IL)
River to River Relay (finish line in Golconda, IL)
Pope County Deer Festival (Golconda, IL) – Celebrates opening of first shotgun deer season; includes parade, vendors, food & local culture. Usually held the Saturday before Thanksgiving.
Golconda Fall Festival (Golconda, IL) – Local food, arts, music and fall atmosphere (usually the 2nd Sunday in October).
Shrimp Festival (Golconda, IL) – A summertime event along Ohio River (usually the 3rd Saturday in September).