The Ultimate Guide to Garden of the Gods in Illinois: What to Know Before You Go

If there’s one place that belongs at the top of your Southern Illinois bucket list, it’s Garden of the Gods.

Located in the Shawnee National Forest near Herod, Illinois, Garden of the Gods is known for massive sandstone rock formations, winding trails, dramatic bluffs and some of the most incredible views in Illinois. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a family getaway or a few days exploring the Shawnee National Forest, this is one stop you won’t want to miss.

And if it’s your first visit, a little planning can make the experience even better.

What Makes Garden of the Gods So Special?

The landscape at Garden of the Gods looks almost out of place in Illinois.

The sandstone formations here are approximately 320 million years old. Over millions of years, wind, rain, freezing and thawing shaped the exposed sandstone into the cliffs, passageways and unusual formations visitors see today.

One of the most recognizable is Camel Rock, but you’ll also find formations such as Table Rock and Devil’s Smokestack.

Then there are the views.

From the tops of the bluffs, you can look across miles of the rolling Shawnee Hills and surrounding forest. It’s beautiful any time of year, but fall brings an entirely different experience when the forest begins changing colors.

Start With the Observation Trail

If this is your first trip to Garden of the Gods, start with the Observation Trail.

This approximately quarter-mile interpretive trail takes about 30 minutes to complete, although we recommend giving yourself longer. You’re going to want time to stop, take pictures and enjoy the overlooks.

The trail has a flagstone surface with some steps and short, steep sections. It leads visitors through the rock formations and onto the bluff areas overlooking the Garden of the Gods Wilderness.

Remember that these are natural cliffs without the protections you might expect at a traditional overlook. Stay aware of your surroundings, watch children closely and use extra caution when rocks are wet.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Garden of the Gods?

There really isn't a bad season.

Spring brings wildflowers, fresh greenery and cooler hiking temperatures.

Summer gives you long days to combine Garden of the Gods with several other Southern Illinois attractions.

Fall may be our favorite. The overlooks become a sea of autumn color, and the cooler temperatures make exploring even more enjoyable.

And don't overlook winter. With fewer visitors and bare trees opening up distant views, the landscape can be beautiful in an entirely different way.

If you're visiting during a popular fall weekend, consider arriving earlier in the day and giving yourself plenty of time.

What Should You Bring?

You don't need a lot for the Observation Trail, but a few things can make your visit more comfortable.

Bring comfortable shoes with good traction, water, sunscreen or bug spray depending on the season, and of course your camera or phone.

If you're planning to explore beyond the Observation Trail, bring a trail map and prepare for a true outdoor experience. The larger Garden of the Gods trail system extends for miles through the wilderness and ranges from easy to difficult.

Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash.

One important rule to know before you go: disposable food and beverage containers aren't permitted on the Observation Trail, so plan accordingly.

Don't Rush Your Visit

Garden of the Gods can technically be a quick stop, but we don't think it should be.

Slow down.

Walk the trail. Find your favorite overlook. Take the pictures. Sit for a while and take in the view.

Then make Garden of the Gods part of a full day exploring this corner of Southern Illinois.

Nearby attractions include Rim Rock National Recreation Trail, Pounds Hollow Recreation Area and Cave-In-Rock State Park, making it easy to turn one stop into an entire day of adventure.

Make Elizabethtown Your Home Base

One of the best parts about visiting Garden of the Gods is that the adventure doesn't have to end when you leave the trail.

Stay nearby in Elizabethtown, Illinois, and you can spend your days exploring the Shawnee National Forest before coming back to the quiet Ohio River in the evening.

Shawnee Stays offers several unique places to stay in and around Elizabethtown, whether you're planning a couples getaway, family trip or weekend with friends.

Stay in a cozy tiny home, spread out in a family-friendly house, enjoy a peaceful cabin getaway or make your trip extra memorable with a stay at the Historic Rose Hotel.

You'll be close enough to explore Garden of the Gods, Cave-In-Rock and other Southern Illinois favorites while still getting to experience the small-town charm of the Ohio River communities.

A Few Things to Know Before You Go

The Garden of the Gods Observation Trail and picnic area are open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and the recreation area is open year-round.

There are vault toilets, picnic areas and camping available at the recreation area. If you're planning a longer hike into the wilderness, remember that conditions are different from the short Observation Trail. Carry a map, stay on designated routes and be prepared for limited cell service in parts of Southern Illinois.

Most importantly, help us keep this incredible place beautiful. Pack out what you bring in, respect the trails and rock formations, and leave Garden of the Gods just as beautiful for the next person.

Ready to Plan Your Southern Illinois Getaway?

Garden of the Gods may be what brings you to Southern Illinois, but we have a feeling it won't be the only thing that makes you want to come back.

Spend a few days exploring hidden waterfalls, sandstone cliffs, peaceful trails, the Ohio River and the little towns tucked throughout the Shawnee National Forest region.

Then come back to a place that feels like home.

Book your stay with Shawnee Stays and make Garden of the Gods just one part of your Southern Illinois adventure.