You don't need to go out West for incredible outdoor experiences.

There's no doubt about it; Illinois hiking trails can be seriously epic. And perhaps the first clue that one is a blue-ribbon winner is in the name. The first time I heard about "Garden of the Gods," ...

Chasing waterfalls in Illinois? Discover scenic hikes with stunning cascades, canyon trails, and unforgettable views worth the trip in 2026.

Skip the crowds and explore these peaceful nature escapes across Illinois, featuring sandstone canyons, floating bogs, ...

HARRISBURG, Ill. (WSIL) -- Christmas tree permits for the Shawnee National Forest are now available online. Purchases can be made through Recreation.gov, and started on November 14, 2025. This year, ...

HistoriCorps and the Shawnee National Forest are seeking volunteers of all skill levels to help rehabilitate the Duck Bay Shelter, with three week-long volunteer opportunities running from Sept. 14 ...

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KFVS) - U.S. Senator Dick Durbin wants thousands more acres of the Shawnee National Park to be protected. Sen. Durbin (D-IL) has introduced the Shawnee National Forest Conservation ...

When the U.S. Forest Service approved the sale of nearly 70 acres for commercial logging in southern Illinois’ Shawnee National Forest in late 2024, Sam Stearns was furious. Shawnee is the only ...

Here’s what to know about the Land of Lincoln’s “most popular hiking trail,” which can be found in southern Illinois. Belleville News-Democrat Belleville News-Democrat The most popular hike in ...

Temporary closure of Snake Road begins March 6 to ensure safe crossing for several species of snakes and amphibians during their bi-annual migration. The road will remain closed until May ...

Illinois advocates and legal experts are applauding a congressional bill that would add key protections for certain areas in the Shawnee National Forest, classifying them with special distinctions ...

ALTO PASS, Ill. (WSIL) -- The Friends of the Shawnee National Forest celebrated their 15th anniversary with a successful fundraiser at Alto Vineyards on November 8. More than 150 attendees contributed ...