Spending some time out in nature is a great way to disconnect and unwind. And in Illinois, there are 4.9 million acres of forest to take in. What’s even better than getting out in nature? Extending your excursion by staying overnight within nature. Over in Herod, you’ll find the 3,318-acre Garden of the Gods Wilderness. And just a short distance away in Harrisburg, you’ll find a perfectly secluded cabin in Illinois where you can rest your head and tired feet for the night.

Although located within the much-larger 249,000-acre Shawnee National Forest, Garden of the Gods in Southern Illinois happens to be one of the most popular hiking areas within it.

Jen/TripAdvisor Once you get a load of these views and peculiar rock formations, you’ll more than likely agree. Garden of the Gods Road, Garden of the Gods Rd, Illinois, USA

Everything that surrounds you was made by Mother Nature. More than 300 million years ago, this setting looked entirely different.

Tad D/Trip Advisor

There are 5.5 miles of trails for hiking as well as several lovely spots for a picnic. You can even rent out one of the 12 campsites here or sleep a little more comfortably in a well-equipped forest cabin.

Gewel Maker/Flickr

Equestrian trails are also available. Each trail has a different color, so you’ll find them very easy to follow.

ChipM2000/Trip Advisor

If you are looking for something short and very sweet, you can do the .5-mile Observation Trail. From this vantage point, you’ll get an expansive view of Shawnee Forest.

JustBreathe2000/Trip Advisor

Be sure to check out the most popular formation, Camel Rock.

CWIL/Trip Advisor

Now that you’ve explored nature, it’s time to relax for the night (or nights!) within its surroundings.

Tiny Cabin in the Big Woods/AirBnB Lying just a short way from Garden of the Gods, this tiny home is perfect for couples looking to unwind off the beaten path. Harrisburg, IL 62946, USA

Within this one-bedroom and one-bathroom cabin, you’ll find gorgeous new furnishings as well as all you’ll need in an overnight stay, including linens, towels, and even a washer and dryer.

Tiny Cabin in the Big Woods/AirBnB

The kitchen is fully equipped for any type of cooking and includes seating.

Tiny Cabin in the Big Woods/AirBnB

The bedroom is located in a small loft. However, if you’d rather not climb up to get to the bed, there is also a queen-sized air mattress that you can use.

Tiny Cabin in the Big Woods/AirBnB

Not only are there no neighbors here, but there is also no WiFi available, making this a truly unplugged getaway from it all.

Tiny Cabin in the Big Woods/AirBnB

Head to the website for Garden of the Gods for the most up-to-date information. Check out the Airbnb listing for the tiny cabin in the big woods for photos and rental information.

Jen/TripAdvisor

Once you get a load of these views and peculiar rock formations, you’ll more than likely agree.

Garden of the Gods Road, Garden of the Gods Rd, Illinois, USA

Tad D/Trip Advisor

Gewel Maker/Flickr

ChipM2000/Trip Advisor

JustBreathe2000/Trip Advisor

CWIL/Trip Advisor

Tiny Cabin in the Big Woods/AirBnB

Lying just a short way from Garden of the Gods, this tiny home is perfect for couples looking to unwind off the beaten path.

Harrisburg, IL 62946, USA

What’s your favorite outdoor excursion in Southern Illinois? Tell us in the comments!

Looking to expand your outdoor time in this area? Here are some additional hikes in Shawnee National Forest.

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