Shawnee Forest Illinois | Cool and Unusual Things to See and Do

Looking for some cool and unusual things to see in the Shawnee Forest in Illinois? As a new traveler or even a returning visitor, there are plenty of cool and unusual attractions around Shawnee. This guide has some suggestions for travelers who may be ready to explore beyond the forest and the trees.

Pyramid of Southern Illinois

Weโ€™d like to think that this unusual stone pyramid is one of the reasons Southern Illinois is often referred to as Little Egypt.

Along one of the lower hiking trails in Bell Smith Springs, visitors will find a huge boulder that resembles a huge Egyptian pyramid. Considering that Southern Illinois is often referred to as โ€œLittle Egypt,โ€ itโ€™s a fitting natural landmark hidden in the Shawnee National Forest.

If youโ€™re looking to thoroughly explore the Shawnee Forest then you may consider purchasing:

Stone Face

Shawnee National Forest has several cool rock formations. Stone Face is one of the most unusual. It is tucked in the woods.

Sometimes referred to as โ€œOld Stone Face,โ€ this natural wonder is the symbol of Saline County. The rock looks strikingly like an old wrinkled face with a nose, chin, forehead, and a toothless mouth. The formation is located eight miles southeast of Harrisburg, in the Ozark foothills perched on top of Eagle Mountain, halfway between Cave Hill to the northeast and Womble Mountain to the southwest.

Golconda Memorial Bridge

In Pope County, towns such as Shawneetown and Golconda and became major ports of entry into southern Illinois for southern-born settlers traveling to Illinois along the Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers.

The Golconda Memorial Bridge is a great place to view the Ohio River. The right bank of the river is the portion that flows past the Shawnee National Forest. Much of the lower Ohio River looks the same as it did when Lewis and Clarkโ€™s expedition floated down it back in 1803.

From the Golconda Memorial Bridge, youโ€™ll witness the size and beauty of the Ohio River. Lewis and Clark documented their great impressions of this region in their journal writings. Along the bridge, youโ€™ll find an informational plaque. It offers some historical information about the events that occurred along this portion of the river.

Shawnee Forest Bigfoot

Hereโ€™s a fun activity in the Shawnee National Forest. Locate The Shawnee Forest Big Footโ€™s Facebook page. See if he has more followers than you! Bet you he does!

Weโ€™d like to introduce you to a very famous persโ€”uh, monster? who resides in the Shawnee National Forest. The Shawnee Forest Bigfoot is so โ€œfamousโ€ that he has his own Facebook following. The statue is a must-see attraction on Roadside America. Rumor around town is this giant Bigfoot stands at the crossroads where many claim to have seen the huge beast. It is located at the intersection of Garden of the Gods & Karbers Ridge Road.

This 7-foot tall Bigfoot is a great place to grab a snapshot on the way to Camel Rock.

Rocky Comfort Cabins

Looking to surprise your sweetie? Spice up the weekend by staying in unique accommodations like these hobbit houses here in Southern Illinois.

These days, travelers are on a quest for unique travel experiences. Channel your inner Frodo Baggins with a dreamy stay at the Rocky Comfort Cabins. Nestled on the Shawnee Hill Wine Trail, just a few steps from Blue Sky Vineyard, the Rocky Comfort Cabins offer a romantic getaway for two. The property features a fire pit, hot tub, and fireplace. The location is an ideal starting point to explore all the natural beauty and viticulture of the Shawnee Hills. Surprise your sweetheart with a stay here to embark on a grand adventure of your own.

Pomona Natural Bridge

The Pomona Natural Bridge is easily reached from the parking lot on a short path through the woods.

The Shawnee National Forest has many interesting rock formations scattered around the region. The Pomona Natural Bridge is a popular one to visit because it is quite easily accessible. A short five-minute loop trail leads to this 90-foot long natural bridge made of sandstone. The bridge is about 12 feet above the tree-covered ravine.

Bald Knob Cross

Bald Knob Cross sits at over 1,000 feet above sea level.

Rising like a beacon in the foothills that surround the Shawnee National Forest, the Bald Knob Cross sits at over 1,000 feet above sea level. This allows the large, white cross to beย visible for over 7,500 square miles.

The purpose of this monument is to provide a place where all people can unite and experience the presence of God. It serves as a monument of faith, peace, charity, and hope.ย At over 111 feet, the Bald Knob Cross is one of the largest crosses in the United States. It is located in the town of Alto Pass and closes at dusk.

The large, white cross to be visible for over 7,500 square miles.

Have you discovered any cool and unusual sights in the Shawnee Forest in Illinois? Let us know and weโ€™ll add them to the article for fellow travelers.

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