Shawnee National Forest

Recreational Activities

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Explore the Shawnee National Forest,

.............and enjoy the largest, most diverse natural treasure in Illinois. Major highways lead to southern Illinois where you will find some of the most beautiful scenery in the Midwest.

Popular only begins to describe ....

...fishing adventures in southern Illinois. Trophy-sized bluegill, redear sunfish, channel and flathead catfish, white and yellow bass, crappie, and of course, largemouth and spotted bass trophies have been taken from area waters. Walleye, sauger, striped bass and hybrid striped bass are also caught. Fishing enthusiasts, from the worm-and-bobber crowd to those on the tournament circuit, have a field day in April and May as the waters warm and the fish begin to feed actively. Fishing for many continues throughout the warm months and into mild southern Illinois winters.

Looking for a challenge?

Take your bass or crappie rig and motor the mighty Ohio River and its world-famous Smithland Pool. Anglers call the Ohio River and 22 streams that enter it from Illinois one of southern Illinois' best-kept secrets.

There is no shortage..

...of marinas, boats and motor rentals, or bait and tackle supplies, from private establishments and other agencies that manage lakes in and near the forest. An Illinois fishing license is required. Have fun, land a lunker, and get the frying pan ready!

In the SHAWNEE National Forest...

...we have over 146 miles of rivers and streams, with more than 200 individual lakes and ponds encompassing 5,200 surface acres, spread over several physiographic provinces. These aquatic habitats support over 100 species of freshwater fish and mussels, as well as, diverse recreational fisheries. Excellent opportunities for bait, troll and fly-fishing abound. As you use our site, we hope you find useful information to guide you in your fishing adventures. Good Luck!

Bring your boat...

...canoe, sailboard or sailboat to enjoy the thousands of acres of water in southern Illinois. Lakes, ponds, and streams in and near the forest offer canoeists and power-boaters picturesque settings for summertime rides in the sun. The water bodies range from small pools to lakes larger than 2,700 acres.

You will long remember...

a trip on the water with a quiet sunrise departure or sunset return on a shimmering lake surrounded by the forested hill country. Let your boat slide through glassy water on Devil's Kitchen, Little Grassy, Big Cedar, Little Cedar, and Dutchman Lake alongside rocky out-croppings. Drift or paddle the tranquil Big Muddy River Canoe Trail.

**Your safety is important to us. Remember floatation devices and other boating safety gear. Flooding lowland and cypress swamps created many lakes.   These impoundments often contain submerged stumps or treetops that can be difficult to see. Stay alert and observe horsepower limits.**

Rough or Convenient???

Camping in the Shawnee National Forest is fun, whether you like to rough it or prefer conveniences. Pitch a tent or park a trailer for a modest fee in one of 7 developed campgrounds. Most have drinking water, restrooms, tables, and grills or fire rings. Showers are available at Oak Point Campground and Lake Glendale Recreation Area. Campsites at Lake Glendale have electrical hookups for all the conveniences of home. Panoramic views and unique scenery are found near every campground. Towering rock formations, peaceful rivers and streams and historic sites provide backdrops and side trips while you camp or picnic.

Swimming anyone?

The forest offers three swimming beaches: Lake Glendale, Pounds Hollow and Johnson Creek. Lake Glendale is the only beach operated by a concessionaire where lifeguards, food, drink, and rentals are provided and a fee is charged.