News from Southern Illinois & the Shawnee National Forest

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Spring is in Bloom: Discover the Most Beautiful Flowering Trees in the Eastern Shawnee National Forest

By Elizabeth Canfarelli

Welcome to Spring in the Shawnee National Forest Spring in Southern Illinois is nothing short of spectacular. As the forest awakens, rolling hills and sandstone bluffs come alive with soft whites, vibrant pinks, and golden...
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Spring Wildflowers to Watch for in the Eastern Shawnee National Forest

By Elizabeth Canfarelli

Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit Southern Illinois. From Virginia bluebells and bloodroot to trout lilies and early daffodils, the eastern Shawnee National Forest comes alive with color. Here are some...
Adventureillinois Arcadiaacresrentals Bellsmithsprings Burdenfalls Exploreillinois Gardenofthegods Illinoishiking Jacksonfalls Naturalillinois Shawnee national forest Southernillinois Staysouthernillinois Waterfallchasing

The Best Waterfalls in Southern Illinois (2026 Guide)

By Elizabeth Canfarelli

See Jackson Falls, Bell Smith Springs, and Burden Falls When the Water Is Flowing Southern Illinois is famous for sandstone bluffs, wooded canyons, and hiking trails throughout Shawnee National Forest—and when we get active weather,...