
West
Shawnee National Forest: Exploring the Protected Landscapes of the Illinois Shawnee Hills
Mapped sandstone formations and glacial terrain in southern Illinois
Spanning nearly 289,000 hectares, Shawnee National Forest is the largest body of public land in Illinois. The area is defined by its dramatic sandstone bluffs, deep canyons, and seven designated wilderness areas that provide a rare rugged topography within the American Midwest. Explore the complex geography of this forest, from its glacial-sculpted river watersheds to its diverse hardwood habitats and historic reforestation sites.
- Area
- 2,017.83 km²
- Established
- 1933
- Relief
- Upland
- Climate
- Temperate


