Cowden IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cowden, Illinois.
1. Thompson Mill Covered Bridge
HISTORIC RIVERSIDE LANDMARK
Thompson Mill Covered Bridge is a captivating historical landmark crossing the Kaskaskia River a few miles east of Cowden. Completed in 1868, this covered bridge embodies the charm of a bygone era and stands as one of the area's most significant historical structures. Visitors can appreciate the classic wooden architecture and enjoy the picturesque views of the river flowing beneath.
2. Kaskaskia River
NATURAL WATERWAY EXPERIENCE
The Kaskaskia River flows through Cowden, offering visitors opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking adventures. This scenic waterway is home to a variety of fish species and provides a peaceful natural setting for outdoor enthusiasts. The river's banks also serve as ideal spots for picnicking and wildlife observation throughout the seasons.
3. Wolf Creek State Park
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Wolf Creek State Park spans over 11,000 acres along the shores of Lake Shelbyville, offering extensive recreational opportunities just a short drive from Cowden. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, boating, swimming, and fishing in this well-maintained natural setting. The park's diverse ecosystem supports abundant wildlife viewing and photography opportunities throughout the year.
4. Eagle Creek State Park
SCENIC LAKEFRONT GETAWAY
Eagle Creek State Park provides another beautiful access point to Lake Shelbyville with unique recreational facilities including a golf course. Hiking trails wind through forests and along shorelines, offering spectacular views and opportunities to observe native wildlife. The park also features well-maintained campgrounds, picnic areas, and boat launches for visitors seeking outdoor adventures.
5. Lake Shelbyville
PREMIER RECREATIONAL RESERVOIR
Lake Shelbyville is a massive 11,100-acre reservoir created by the damming of the Kaskaskia River, providing endless water recreation possibilities near Cowden. The lake features numerous beaches, marinas, and boat ramps that support activities from swimming and sailing to water skiing and fishing. With over 172 miles of shoreline, visitors can discover secluded coves, observe wildlife, and enjoy spectacular sunsets over the water.
6. General Dacey Trail
MULTI-USE RECREATIONAL PATH
The General Dacey Trail offers a well-maintained multi-use path system that connects various recreational areas around Lake Shelbyville. Stretching over 10 miles with ongoing expansion, the trail accommodates walkers, joggers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts through diverse landscapes. Interpretive signs along the route inform visitors about local history, flora, and fauna of this ecologically rich region.
7. Shelby County Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Shelby County Historical Society Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of the region through carefully curated exhibits and artifacts. Housed in a historic building, the museum displays items ranging from Native American artifacts to pioneer tools and military memorabilia. Visitors can gain insight into the agricultural heritage, industrial development, and cultural evolution of Shelby County and surrounding areas.
8. Shelby County Courthouse
ARCHITECTURAL COUNTY LANDMARK
The Shelby County Courthouse stands as an impressive architectural landmark in downtown Shelbyville, showcasing classic design elements from its construction in the late 19th century. The building features a striking clock tower, ornate details, and historic significance as the center of local government operations for generations. Visitors can admire both the exterior grandeur and, when open to the public, the well-preserved interior spaces with historic woodwork and period details.
9. Forest Park
HISTORIC COMMUNITY RECREATION
Forest Park offers residents and visitors alike a well-established community recreation area with facilities for various outdoor activities. The park features playgrounds, picnic shelters, sports fields, and walking paths spread across beautifully landscaped grounds. Seasonal events and community gatherings held in the park provide opportunities to experience local culture while enjoying the natural setting.
10. Lithia Springs Marina
FULL-SERVICE BOATING DESTINATION
Lithia Springs Marina provides comprehensive boating services on Lake Shelbyville with modern facilities for water enthusiasts. The marina offers boat rentals, slips, fuel, supplies, and launching facilities in a scenic cove setting. Visitors can also enjoy the adjacent recreation areas with camping, swimming, and fishing opportunities just a short drive from Cowden.
11. Shelby County Farmers Market
LOCAL AGRICULTURAL SHOWCASE
The Shelby County Farmers Market brings together local producers offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted items in a vibrant community gathering. Held seasonally, the market showcases the agricultural bounty of the region with fruits, vegetables, meats, and homemade goods direct from area farms. Visitors can interact with local farmers, learn about sustainable growing practices, and taste authentic flavors of rural Illinois.
12. Hidden Springs State Forest
SECLUDED NATURAL WOODLAND
Hidden Springs State Forest encompasses over 1,200 acres of diverse woodland habitat offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers near Cowden. Miles of hiking trails wind through mature forests, across streams, and around small ponds where visitors can observe native wildlife and seasonal wildflowers. The forest also provides opportunities for primitive camping, hunting, fishing, and mushroom foraging during designated seasons.
13. Shelbyville Dam
ENGINEERING MARVEL VIEWPOINT
The Shelbyville Dam stands as an impressive engineering achievement controlling the flow of the Kaskaskia River and creating Lake Shelbyville. Visitors can view the massive structure from observation points and learn about its flood control and water management functions through informational displays. The dam area also offers fishing opportunities below the spillway, where a variety of fish species concentrate in the flowing waters.
14. Sunken Garden
HISTORIC LANDSCAPED OASIS
The Sunken Garden presents a charming landscaped retreat featuring beautiful flower displays, walkways, and seating areas in a depression below street level. This historic garden space has been lovingly maintained for generations as a peaceful urban oasis in Shelbyville. Visitors can enjoy seasonal blooms, shade trees, and the tranquil atmosphere just minutes from downtown attractions.
15. Red Fox Winery
LOCAL VINEYARD EXPERIENCE
Red Fox Winery welcomes visitors to sample locally produced wines in a charming rural setting near Lake Shelbyville. The winery features a tasting room where guests can enjoy a variety of wines made from locally grown grapes and other fruits. Seasonal events, live music performances, and vineyard tours enhance the experience at this growing attraction in the Shelby County area.