Take a Fall Trip to "Garden of the God's" in Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois

When thinking of a travel destination for anytime of year, think "Garden of the God's" in Illinois. This beautiful and majestic place is a nature lovers paradise, that will capture you and take you back in time. This area is well known for it's rich history, scenic attractions and loads of recreation areas to choose from.

Garden of the God's, Illinois is not to be confused with the Garden of the God's in Colorado. Garden of the God's, Illinois is nestled deep in the Shawnee National forest in Southern Illinois Hardin, Saline and Pope counties.

Garden of the God's is well over 300 million years old and over these years, the elements such as the wind and rain have eroded the natural sedimentary rock into some of the most stunning rock formations ever to be seen in the United States or in the world for that matter.Natural wonders like, bluffs that drop off one hundred feet to show the most breathtaking view that spreads out below you for as far as the eye can see.

This park contains wide variety of animal and plant life; which only add to the beauty of the terrain. The best time to visit is in the fall, when the foliage is in full change, the colors are truly spectacular.

The name "Garden of the God's" is well deserved, as only a place this beautiful can bestow such a name. The garden covers more than 3,200 acres of the most amazing sedimentary rock formations along some of the most well rooted trails, these trails vary in difficulty along the way.

There are over 5.5 miles of connecting trails that wind through some of God's most precious land. The most popular of these trails is "Observation Trail". The trail is a little over half a mile in distance and is marked with educational tutorials that tell about the history and geology of the region. There are trails for horseback riding, hiking and biking.

The Garden of the God's has several camp sites and RV sites, as well as cabin rentals. The cabin rentals vary in price from place to place, but the campsites are first come first served and are only $5.00 per night. The campsites are year round are fully equipped with picnic tables, fire pits, drinking water and bathrooms. Well, more like a "port-a-potty".

Garden of the God's recreation area is located at, 50 Highway 145 S, Harrisburg, IL 62946, Call (618) 253-7114 for more information and directions. ‎

Personal experience was used for this article along with these references
www.byways.org and www.shawneetouism.com