Nason IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Nason, Illinois.
1. Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION PARADISE
Wayne Fitzgerrell State Park offers visitors 3,300 acres of outdoor recreation opportunities along the shores of Rend Lake. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing in this picturesque setting. The park features beautiful lakeside views and is popular for both day trips and extended stays.
2. Pheasant Hollow Winery
LOCAL WINES AND TASTINGS
Pheasant Hollow Winery welcomes visitors to sample locally produced wines in a charming rustic setting. The winery offers tastings of their award-winning wines made from locally grown grapes and fruits. Guests can enjoy the peaceful countryside atmosphere while learning about the winemaking process.
3. Aquatic Zoo
FAMILY WATER FUN
The Aquatic Zoo provides a refreshing escape with various water attractions suitable for all ages. Visitors can enjoy water slides, a lazy river, and splash areas perfect for cooling off during hot summer days. This family-friendly water park offers amenities including concessions, locker rooms, and plenty of space to relax between water activities.
4. South Marcum Campground
SCENIC LAKESIDE CAMPING
South Marcum Campground provides a serene camping experience on the shores of Rend Lake with well-maintained facilities. Campers can enjoy direct lake access, boat ramps, and fishing opportunities right from their campsite. The campground features both primitive and electric sites, clean restrooms, and beautiful sunset views across the water.
5. Appellate Court
HISTORIC LEGAL LANDMARK
The Appellate Court in Mt. Vernon stands as an impressive architectural landmark with significant legal history. Visitors can admire the building's classic design elements and learn about its role in the Illinois judicial system. The court represents an important piece of regional history and civic pride for the area.
6. Rend Lake
OUTDOOR RECREATION HUB
Rend Lake offers 18,900 acres of water-based recreation opportunities as one of Southern Illinois' premier outdoor destinations. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing for crappie and bass, swimming, and water sports in this expansive reservoir. The lake is surrounded by multiple recreation areas, beaches, marinas, and wildlife habitats that create a complete outdoor experience.
7. Shawnee National Forest
NATURAL WILDERNESS BEAUTY
Shawnee National Forest encompasses 280,000 acres of diverse landscapes including wilderness areas, lakes, and unique rock formations. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails, experience ziplining through the forest canopy, or discover hidden waterfalls throughout this natural treasure. The forest provides habitat for abundant wildlife and showcases spectacular seasonal colors, especially during autumn.
8. Cedarhurst Center for the Arts
CULTURAL ARTS DESTINATION
Cedarhurst Center for the Arts offers visitors a blend of visual arts, sculpture gardens, and cultural events on its beautiful 90-acre campus. The center houses multiple gallery spaces featuring permanent collections of American art alongside rotating exhibits of contemporary works. Visitors can stroll through the impressive outdoor sculpture park, attend performances, or participate in art classes and workshops throughout the year.
9. Jefferson County Historical Village
LIVING HISTORY EXPERIENCE
Jefferson County Historical Village transports visitors back in time with its collection of preserved and relocated historical buildings from the 1800s. The village features authentic structures including a one-room schoolhouse, log cabins, a train depot, and various other buildings furnished with period items. Visitors can experience life in 19th century Illinois through guided tours, special events, and hands-on historical demonstrations.
10. Veterans Memorial Park
PATRIOTIC RECREATION SPACE
Veterans Memorial Park honors military service members while providing recreational facilities for the community. The park features monuments dedicated to veterans, walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas for families to enjoy. Visitors can reflect on military sacrifices while enjoying the well-maintained grounds and various amenities.
11. Casey Jones Campground
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR RETREAT
Casey Jones Campground welcomes campers to enjoy its scenic setting near Rend Lake with modern amenities and friendly atmosphere. The campground offers various accommodation options including RV sites with full hookups, tent camping areas, and rental cabins. Visitors can take advantage of the swimming pool, recreation facilities, planned activities, and easy access to nearby lake attractions.
12. Benton City Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER
Benton City Park serves as a community gathering place with multiple recreational facilities for all ages. The park features sports fields, playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic pavilions perfect for family outings. Visitors can enjoy seasonal events, concerts, and community activities held throughout the year in this welcoming space.
13. Franklin County Historic Jail Museum
CRIMINAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Franklin County Historic Jail Museum preserves the original county jail building, offering a glimpse into law enforcement history from 1905 to 1990. Visitors can tour the cell blocks, sheriff's quarters, and exhibits featuring artifacts and stories from the jail's operational years. The museum highlights notable prisoners, historical crime stories, and the evolution of corrections practices throughout the 20th century.
14. King City Books
CHARMING INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE
King City Books invites book lovers to browse its carefully curated selection of new and used titles in a welcoming atmosphere. The independent bookstore hosts author events, book clubs, and community gatherings throughout the year. Visitors can discover local authors, regional history books, and literary treasures while enjoying the personalized service that only a small bookshop can provide.
15. Pyramid State Recreation Area
OUTDOOR SPORTSMAN'S PARADISE
Pyramid State Recreation Area spans over 19,000 acres of land, making it the largest state recreation area in Illinois with dozens of lakes and ponds. Visitors can enjoy excellent fishing, hunting, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities across this vast outdoor playground. The area's unique landscape was created through reclaimed strip mining operations, resulting in distinctive terrain and diverse habitats for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.