Lake of Egypt

Summer in the Shawnee National Forest

The Shawnee National Forest is a great place to escape the heat of summer. With over 288,000 acres of land to explore, there's something for everyone in the Shawnee. Here are a few ideas for things to do in the Shawnee National Forest during…

3 fun activities to engage kids in conservation

Conservation is a collective responsibility shared by individuals across the globe. Protecting the planet and ensuring its future has never been more important, as various organizations and environmentalists warn that, without immediate action,…
Yellow and orange leaves on trees

Fall Colors

With hues of red, yellow and orange abounding, the U.S. Forest Service is urging people to get outdoors, spend time in rural communities and urban forests, and enjoy one of nature's most spectacular seasons. "America's public lands, particularly…
Shawnee National Forest Ferne Clyffe State ParkIllinois Department of Natural Resources

Rock Climbing

To protect fragile ecosystems and prevent soil compaction and erosion the Shawnee National Forest offers limited opportunities for rock climbing and rappelling. Therefore rock climbing and rappelling are not allowed in any of the 80 designated…
Woodpecker eating acorns from tree

Birding in Shawnee National Forest

Birding Opportunities Southern Illinois features the joining of 4 very different Natural Divisions: The Missouri Ozark Hills, the Mississippi River Bottomlands, the Shawnee Hills, and the Coastal Plain. Because of this, the Shawnee offers…
Shawnee National Forest Ferne Clyffe State ParkIllinois Department of Natural Resources

Shawnee National Forest Backpacking

Experience the natural beauty and heritage of the Shawnee National Forest. Protect the Forest for yourself and others. Welcome to a rich hiking experience on the Shawnee National Forest! While over 300 miles of trails are marked,…

Outstanding Scenic Spot

Located just .08 miles from Shawnee Trails Lodging and Suites, Ferne Clyffe, is a great location to enjoy the nature that Southern Illinois has to offer Ferne Clyffe State Park has been known as an outstanding natural scenic spot for a century.…
Shawnee National Forest Hunting
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Fishing and Hunting at Ferne Clyffe

Bank fishermen will be impressed by Ferne Clyffe Lake's populations of largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish and redear in the lake. Hunters will appreciate the 1,750 acres of forested habitat, with good populations of deer and squirrel.…