Garden Of The Gods In Herod Illinois Has The Best Rock Formations

At the opposite end of the state from Chicago and most of the Land of Lincoln’s other popular attractions, there is a recreational area in Herod, Illinois that is famous for its rock formations. While most of the state is flat, this region features some unique natural attractions you’ll have to see to believe.

Trails, campsites, and extraordinary views abound at this immaculate park. Scroll on for more details.

Situated in southern Illinois, the Garden of the Gods Wilderness is the most spectacular section of the Shawnee National Forest.

Wikimedia Commons/Fritz Geller-Grimm

Spanning 3,318 acres, this world of rock formations features about 5.5 miles of interconnecting trails. They allow hikers to explore these structures that have been chiseled by wind over the course of 300 million years.

flickr/christina rutz

These sandstone rocks are truly a sight to see. The trails are ideal for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding, all of which are brilliant ways to explore these rock formations.

Wikimedia Commons/Djngsf

From the campsites and some points along your hikes, you’ll get to see the amazing bluff tops. Some of these formations drop 100 feet down and can even be climbed with the right equipment.

Wikimedia Commons/Daniel Schwen

Some of the rocks are so large or uniquely shaped that they have earned nicknames such as Anvil Rock, Mushroom Rock, and Camel Rock.

Wikimedia Commons/Fritz Geller-Grimm

Many love this area so much, they choose to camp in this region of the forest. It is $10 to camp at Garden of the Gods where sites typically have fire pits, picnic tables, and toilets on-site.

flickr/Curtis Abert

If you want to experience the unique natural attractions of the Shawnee National Forest, there’s no better way to do it than by visiting the Garden of the Gods.

flickr/Curtis Abert

Do you have photos of the Garden of the Gods? Click here to join our Illinois Nature Lovers Group and share them with us on Facebook.

Wikimedia Commons/Fritz Geller-Grimm

flickr/christina rutz

Wikimedia Commons/Djngsf

Wikimedia Commons/Daniel Schwen

flickr/Curtis Abert

Where else in the Land of Lincoln can you find rock formations? Share your favorite places to go with us below in the comments.

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Address: Garden of the Gods, Herod, IL 62947, USA