You have probably heard of the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. However, you might not have known that there is also a Garden of the Gods in Illinois. When you grow weary of the Illinois urban metropolises such as Chicago and Springfield, an excursion to the Garden of the Gods might add a bit of balance to your Illinois vacation. A trip to the Garden of the Gods in Illinois allows you take the time to hike, camp and enjoy those natural attractions that the state has to offer.
The Garden of the Gods, Illinois is located in southern section of the state. Nestled within the Shawnee National Forest, this spectacular wilderness area is over 320 million years old and covers over 3,300 acres of amazing old growth forest. The sediment rock and the fractured bedrock in the Garden of the Gods have created a variety of interesting rock formations that are representative of a number of different objects.
The Garden of the Gods has two main trail systems. The best-known trail in the in the Garden of the Gods, Illinois is the Observation Trail. It follows a .25-mile stone path that meanders towards the overlooks of the Garden of the Gods Wilderness Area, where you are treated to the sight of the unusual rock formations. The trail is an interpretative trail, that features some interesting information about the history and geology of the Garden of the Gods, Illinois.
The other major trail that goes through this area is the River-to-River Trail. This Garden of the Gods trail enters the east end of the park from High Knob just below the camping area and proceeds west crossing the blacktop to the Observation Trail. If you are planning to do some camping near the Garden of the Gods, Illinois, take a look at the Pharaoh Campgrounds, located within the Shawnee National Forest. There are 12 campsites available for a fee of $5 a night. Several RV sites are also available. Pets on leash are allowed in the camping area. Sites are available on a first come/first served basis. Be sure to bring your camera when you visit the Garden of the Gods in Illinois, so that you can cherish the memories of your trip.
