Stonefort IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Stonefort, Illinois.
1. Stonefort Depot Museum
HISTORIC RAILWAY HERITAGE
The Stonefort Depot Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the railway history of Southern Illinois. Visitors can explore historical artifacts and exhibits that showcase the importance of the railroad to this small community. The museum stands as one of the high points for travelers in the region, preserving the local heritage for future generations.
2. Burden Falls
ILLINOIS' HIGHEST WATERFALL
Burden Falls is among the highest waterfalls in Illinois, located in the Shawnee National Forest near Stonefort. The waterfall is accessible via a 0.8-mile moderately rated loop trail that offers excellent opportunities for birding and photography. The area features numerous side trails for exploration, making it a perfect outdoor destination for nature enthusiasts.
3. Burden Falls Wilderness Area
PRISTINE NATURAL SANCTUARY
The Burden Falls Wilderness Area is a designated wilderness with numerous trails, impressive bluffs, and natural sights. Hikers can explore the rugged terrain while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of this protected natural sanctuary. The wilderness area provides visitors with a true Illinois backcountry experience, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
4. Giant City Stonefort Trail
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN SITE
The Giant City Stonefort Trail is a popular one-third mile loop trail with approximately 80 feet of elevation gain in Giant City State Park. The trail leads to a reconstructed stonefort originally built by Native Americans during the Late Woodland period and later rebuilt by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. This historic site offers visitors a glimpse into prehistoric Illinois while enjoying one of the most popular hikes in the park.
5. Bell Smith Springs
SCENIC NATURAL LANDMARK
Bell Smith Springs National Natural Landmark features four separate trails totaling 8 miles of available hiking routes. The dirt trails range from moderate to difficult in some areas, passing under large shelter bluffs and various rock formations. Visitors can enjoy stunning views while exploring this natural treasure in the Shawnee National Forest.
6. Lusk Creek Wilderness
PRISTINE PADDLING ADVENTURE
Lusk Creek Wilderness offers paddlers a remote, pristine stream experience through some of the most beautiful areas of the Shawnee National Forest. A full-day adventure starting at Iron Bridge provides 7.1 miles of natural beauty during an approximately 8-hour excursion. This paddling route is considered one of the best canoeing experiences in Illinois, showcasing untouched wilderness and scenic vistas.
7. Camp Ondessonk
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PARADISE
Camp Ondessonk, located in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest, offers visitors access to over 10 miles of trails through pristine forests and sandstone canyons when camp is not in session. The camp provides numerous adventures for people of all skill levels amid beautiful natural surroundings. Guests can explore the diverse terrain and experience the tranquility of this hidden gem in southern Illinois.
8. Rend Lake Dam West Area
LAKESIDE RECREATION HUB
The Dam West Area at Rend Lake serves as a day-use recreation area offering a wide variety of activities and events. Visitors can enjoy water sports, picnicking, and wildlife viewing along the scenic shoreline. The area provides perfect access points to experience the natural beauty of one of southern Illinois' largest bodies of water.
9. Indian Kitchen
DRAMATIC ROCK FORMATIONS
Indian Kitchen features dramatic rock formations and overlooks within the Shawnee National Forest near Stonefort. Hikers can explore this geological wonder while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. The site's unique landscape makes it a favorite destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts seeking to capture the rugged beauty of southern Illinois.
10. Sand Cave
HIDDEN GEOLOGICAL WONDER
Sand Cave is a fascinating geological formation accessible via a scenic hiking trail near Stonefort. The unusual cave features smooth, sandy floors and textured walls created by centuries of natural erosion processes. Visitors can explore this hidden gem while enjoying the surrounding Shawnee National Forest landscape.
11. Giant City State Park
ANCIENT ROCK CITY
Giant City State Park features unique sandstone formations that resemble the streets and buildings of a city, hence its name. The park offers numerous hiking trails, including the popular Giant City Stonefort Trail, allowing visitors to explore its geological and archaeological wonders. Created during the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the park preserves both natural beauty and historical significance.
12. Shawnee National Forest
WILDERNESS RECREATION PARADISE
Shawnee National Forest encompasses over 280,000 acres of federally managed lands in southern Illinois, including areas near Stonefort. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems including hardwood forests, cypress swamps, and dramatic bluffs formed millions of years ago. The forest offers extensive recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing throughout the year.
13. Garden of the Gods
SPECTACULAR ROCK FORMATIONS
Garden of the Gods Recreation Area showcases spectacular sandstone formations sculpted by wind and water over millions of years. A quarter-mile observation trail provides visitors with panoramic views of the dramatic landscape and unique rock formations with descriptive names like Camel Rock and Mushroom Rock. This natural wonder draws photographers and hikers year-round to experience one of Illinois' most spectacular natural landmarks.
14. Rim Rock Trail
ANCIENT FOREST PATHWAY
Rim Rock Trail guides hikers along the upper edge of a massive sandstone escarpment in the Shawnee National Forest. The pathway features ancient stone steps carved by prehistoric Native Americans and passes through old-growth forest with trees over 400 years old. Visitors can explore the adjoining Pounds Hollow Recreation Area with its beautiful lake after experiencing this historic trail.
15. Lake Glendale Recreation Area
SCENIC FOREST RETREAT
Lake Glendale Recreation Area offers a beautiful 80-acre lake surrounded by the rolling hills of the Shawnee National Forest. Visitors can enjoy swimming at the sandy beach, fishing for bass and bluegill, or hiking the scenic trails that encircle the lake. The recreation area provides camping facilities and picnic areas, making it perfect for day trips or extended stays in southern Illinois.