Garden of the Gods Recreation Area

One of the most photographed locations in the state, Garden of the Gods' scenic beauty is extraordinary. In the recreation area you can hike, camp, nature watch or picnic.

The Observation Trail features unique sandstone rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding Garden of the God Wilderness. Interpretive signs explain the geological history. The 1/4-mile trail is made of natural sandstone and takes about an hour to walk. It contains short, steep grades and steps; benches are located along the trail and as a whole the trail is not tiring. Caution should be used due to the high cliffs in the area.

General Information

Garden of the Gods Brochure and Map

Observation Trail

Observation Trail is a quarter mile-long interpretive trail that leads to areas on top of the bluffs, which feature views of Shawnee Hills and Garden of the Gods Wilderness. You can see rock formations with names such as Camel Rock, Table Rock and Devil’s Smokestack. Observation Trail has some short, steep grades and a few steps. However, as a whole, the trail is not tiring. Caution: High cliffs in the area.

Campground and Picnic Areas

Pharaoh Campground — open year round — features 12 campsites, tables, fire grills, toilets, drinking water and trails. Nice views of the Shawnee Hills can be seen from the campground and picnic areas. Pharaoh Picnic Ground is open year round, as is the Observation Area. Overnight parking is not allowed

Wilderness Trail System

Rocky streams, sheer cliffs, pine stands, hardwood forest, trickling streams, rock overhangs and scenic vistas are here. Spring offers wildflowers and rushing streams. Autumn offers beautiful fall colors and few insect pests. Users are encouraged to obtain detailed maps before entering the backcountry. Overnight parking is allowed at the backpacker’s parking lot. Motorized vehicles or mechanized equipment are not permitted.

Additional Camping:

Located 6 miles east of Garden of the Gods is Pounds Hollow Recreation Area with a large campground with 13 electric sites & 41 non-electric sites.

Trail Markings:
River To River Trail - blue letter i
Hiker-Only Trails include: The Observation Trail, Indian Point Trail, portions of the Anvil Rock Trail, and Trail # 108H.

Safety:
When venturing into Garden of the Gods wilderness or on extended hikes precautions should be taken: Carry water, food, first-aid kit, etc. Poison ivy & venomous snakes are present in the area.

Be aware cell phone coverage is spotty or non-existent. Expect longer response times by emergency personnel. If you have an emergency and your cell phone is working, call 911.

Picnic area and Observation Trail hours of operation - 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Campground is open year-round.

No permit required for entering or camping in Garden of the Gods Wilderness.

Overnight parking allowed at Backpacker's Parking Lot only (Indian Point Trailhead).
Pets are allowed only on a leash.
Picnic areas and Observation Trail are open 6am-10pm.
Use trash receptacles where available. Pack It In, Pack It Out while on trails.
Camp only at designated sites in the campground.
Disposable food and beverage containers are not permitted on the Observation Trail.
Stay on the designated trail and leave the beauty of the rocks and plants for others to enjoy.

Fee at Campground only. Campsite $10/night - 8 people & 2 vehicle max. Payment cash or check only.

Camping

Campsite $10/night - 8 people & 2 vehicle max. Payment cash or check only.

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 37.604532

Longitude: -88.384381

Directions

From Harrisburg: Take Highway 145 south 5 miles, to Highway 34, then take 34 south for 10 miles. Then turn east onto Karbers Ridge Road 2.5 miles to Forest Road. Turn north. Drive 1.5 miles to the recreation area entrance road.

Parking

Observation Trail has three large parking lots.

Overflow parking is at the Golden Circle Trailhead just outside the recreation area along Forest Road. To reach Golden Circle Trailhead from the Recreation Area, go back down the entrance road, turn north (left) onto Forest Road and go a short distance around the curve then turn east (right) into the Golden Circle Trailhead parking lot.

No overnight parking is allowed in picnic area or Observation Trail parking lots.

Overnight parking is allowed at Backpacker's Parking Trailhead in Garden of the Gods Recreation Area. There is also overnight parking allowed nearby outside of the Garden of the Gods Recreation Area at Hitching Post Trailhead along Eagle Creek Road (to the west) and to the east, Golden Circle Trailhead along Forest Road.