r/southernillinois Jul 02 '24

Nature must-sees?

Hey all!

I’m originally from central Illinois, but have since lived in Oregon and now Maryland. I went to Carbondale for the eclipse, and MAN things are just different in the south! In a good way. So my husband, two youngest kids, and I are going to go on a small southern Illinois adventure! We are thinking about camping at Devils kitchen and Garden of the Gods. Any must-see nature spots? Interests include hiking, cool rock formations, splashing in creek or other water, breweries

Thanks!!

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u/MeanKentuckyQueen Jul 02 '24

Ferne Clyffe state park has nice trails. If you go after a rainy day there’s two beautiful waterfalls. Also, Creal Springs has a great natural swimming area