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The Perfect Weekend Family Adventure in Shawnee National Forest

Tucked away in the southern tip of Illinois, Shawnee National Forest is one of the Midwest’s most underrated outdoor destinations. Filled with caves, natural bridges, waterfalls, tunnels, and sweeping overlooks, it’s definitely not a place you would expect in the middle of the Midwest, yet it’s only 2 hours from St. Louis. If your family loves hiking, exploring, and spending time in the great outdoors, this weekend itinerary will take you to some of the best spots in Southern Illinois.

    • Day 1: Caves, Cliffs, and a Tunnel Through Time

    Morning: Cave-In-Rock State Park
    Start your adventure on the banks of the Ohio River at Cave-In-Rock State Park. This massive riverside cave has a fascinating past as a pirate hideout, but today it’s a wonderland for families to explore. Make sure to head all the way to the back of the cave to feel like a real life explorer, and take in the sweeping river views from the mouth.

    Late Morning: Rim Rock National Recreational Trail (20 minutes away)
    Next, head to Rim Rock Trail, a 1.7-mile loop split into upper and lower sections. I highly recommend the lower trail if you don’t want to do the full loop. It weaves past moss-covered bluffs, stone steps, and formations that feel like secret passageways.

    Afternoon: Garden of the Gods (20 minutes away)
    No trip to Shawnee National Forest is complete without a stop at Garden of the Gods. This short 0.5-mile Observation Trail offers some of the most jaw-dropping views in Illinois. Kids will love scrambling on the giant sandstone rocks while you soak in the panoramic forest views.

    There are bathrooms and picnic tables here to enjoy a picnic lunch before your hike, and make a stop by Garden of the Gods Outpost for an ice cream cone when you finish.

    Late Afternoon: Tunnel Hill Trail (1 hour away)
    Cap off the day with a visit to Tunnel Hill Trail. Once a bustling railroad, this 40-mile path now draws hikers and bikers to its historic train tunnel. From the town of Tunnel Hill, park in the lot and walk just 0.2 miles south along the trail to run into the tunnel. Stroll or bike as far as your family’s energy allows.

    Evening: Overnight in Carbondale
    Head to Carbondale for dinner and your overnight stay. Before checking into your hotel, make a stop at Book Park, an amazing Dungeon & Dragons themed playground that will surely be a hit with your kids.

    Day 2: Waterfalls, Bridges, and the Little Grand Canyon

    Morning: Ferne Clyffe State Park
    Start the day at Ferne Clyffe, where you can pick from several short, family-friendly hikes that all lead to stunning natural features. I recommend the 1-mile Waterfall Trail (trailhead in the campground), the 0.4-mile Rebman Trail, and the 0.6-mile Hawk’s Cave Trail, which leads to a massive shelter cave. Each is short, scenic, and fun for kids.

    Late Morning: Giant City State Park (30 minutes away)
    Next, drive to Giant City, famous for its sandstone passageways that feel like nature’s playground. The 1-mile Nature Trail winds through narrow tunnels, crevices, and mazes and is incredible- definitely one of the coolest trails in the Midwest.

    Afternoon: Pomona Natural Bridge (30 minutes away)
    Your next stop is the Pomona Natural Bridge, reached by a short 0.5-mile trail. The bridge is made of sandstone and spans 90 feet; a natural wonder that’s both easy to access and unforgettable to walk across.

    Optional Adventure: Little Grand Canyon (30 minutes away)
    If your family still has energy left, end your adventure at the Little Grand Canyon. The 3.4-mile loop can be more challenging, with rocky descents and creek crossings, but even tackling part of the trail gives you a glimpse into this hidden gem.

    Tips for Families Visiting Shawnee National Forest

    ✨ Pack snacks and water — some trails are remote with no services nearby. We packed a cooler and ate picnic lunches during our time in Shawnee National Forest.
    ✨ Come prepared for the outdoors — trails can be rocky, muddy, or slippery, so make sure you have sturdy shoes. Bring bug spray and sunscreen.
    ✨ Download maps — cell service can be spotty in the forest, so use AllTrails to download your trail map before you go.
    ✨ Pace yourself — Shawnee has endless trails, but you don’t need to do them all to have an epic trip.
    ✨ Best time to visit: Spring brings waterfalls to life, summer offers lush greenery, fall paints the forest in stunning color, and winter is truly its own kind of Midwest magic.

    Why Shawnee is Worth the Trip with Kids

    Few places in the Midwest pack this much natural variety into such a small area. In just two days, your family can explore caves, climb rock formations, walk across a natural bridge, and even hike through a tunnel once traveled by trains. If you are a family who loves outdoor adventure and epic trails and views, Shawnee National Forest is for you.

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