We may occasionally close roads or parts of the forest for the safety of people or to protect natural resources. For more details, see alerts and closures below.
Carry plenty of water or boil/treat water before drinking.
Use protective spray or ointments and wash skin and clothing to protect yourself from bugs and poison ivy.
Venomous snakes occur in southern Illinois. Be cautious, watch where you step or place your hands.
Bug repellent is recommended.
Cell phone reception may be weak or non-existent in many parts of the Shawnee National Forest.
Use a map and compass or GPS device.
Practice the Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics. Learn more lnt.org.
Use extra caution in designated wildernesses (backcountry areas)
In wilder, more remote areas of the forest, search and rescue efforts often are slower than in urban places. Stay safe and use extra caution in our seven designated wildernesses.
Before you go, check out our rules and regulations
Large rains may cause rivers and streams to rise quickly and stay elevated for days after a rainstorm. Some roads and trails become flooded quickly. To stay safe, be aware of weather conditions.
Smoke on the forest?
We use prescribed fire as a tool to restore Southern Illinois forests. Prescribed fire is a planned fire that is overseen by professionals. To learn more about places where we are using or plan to use fire, check out our prescribed fire page. To report a fire, dial 911 or 866-684-2051. No recreation, camping, permits, or other information is available on this line.
Shawnee National Forest will waive fees at Garden of the Gods, Pounds Hollow, Camp Cadiz, Pine Hills and Johnson Creek campgrounds on special days throughout 2021 as part of the federal land management fee-free program.
Concessionaire operated campgrounds are not included in the fee waiver: Lake Glendale's Oak Point Campground & Bell Smith Springs' Redbud Campground.
It is the responsibility of the visitor to be knowledgable about the the rules and regulations of the Shawnee National Forest and the activity they are participating in. Campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailhead bulletin boards are some locations where rules and regulations are posted.
The Forest Supervisor has the authority to determine and set more specific regulations, These are known as "Forest Orders".
Please contact a Shawnee National Forest office if you have questions about what is allowed on national forest land.
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