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📝 1. Overview
Laid-back towns near Shawnee’s eastern edge, where outdoor adventure and riverfront charm meet rural hospitality.
🌟 2. Highlights
🟢 Garden of the Gods (east access) – Epic sandstone vistas & trail loops 🌄
🟢 Dixon Springs State Park – Hidden waterfalls, natural pools & picnic spots 💧
🟢 Golconda Marina – Boat docks, riverside strolls, and Ohio River sunsets 🚤
🟢 Ohio River Scenic Byway – Road trip route through bluffs and history 🛣️
🟢 Saline Creek Pioneer Village – Restored log cabins & local heritage displays 🪵
🟢 Harrisburg Town Square – Classic Midwest charm with diners & boutiques 🏘️
🟢 Pounds Hollow Recreation Area – Swim, hike, and relax by the lake 🏊♂️
💡 3. Tips
🕐 Best time = Spring (waterfalls) or fall (leaf season & dry trails)
📱 Use “Shawnee Forest Country” site for maps, hikes & local events
🎒 Essentials: bug spray, sunhat, trail snacks, and water shoes
🅿️ Free parking at most trailheads and downtown Golconda
🧼 Pack out trash and avoid off-trail wandering—preserve the forest!
🎟️ 4. Tickets & Info
| 🎫 Category | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Garden of the Gods | Free | Main east access from Harrisburg |
| Dixon Springs Park | Free | Open sunrise to sunset |
| Golconda Marina Boat Rentals | $25/hr | Canoes, kayaks available |
| Saline Creek Village | Free | Donations welcome; open seasonally |
🍽️ 5. Nearby Eats
🍔 Mackie’s Pizza (Harrisburg) – Local pizza legend with huge portions 🍕
🍣 Riverview Mansion Café (Golconda) – Fine dining with river views 🍷
🍕 Sweetwater Saloon (Golconda) – Chill local pub with pub grub & live music 🎸
🚗 6. Access
📍 Location: Southeastern Illinois, near Ohio River & Shawnee East
✈️ Closest Airport: Barkley Regional (PAH) ~1.5 hrs / MDH ~1 hr
🚐 Car travel highly recommended; scenic byway = great day drive
🅿️ Free parking at parks, marina, and town squares
🚌 Limited transit; walkable downtowns, trailheads within 20–40 min drive
🧘♀️ 7. Vibes & Add-ons
📸 Best photo spot: Rim Rock trail near Pounds Hollow or Golconda riverfront
🌇 Evening vibes: Quiet riverside sunsets, bonfires, stargazing
🛍️ Local finds: Handmade soaps, forest-themed decor, antiques in Harrisburg
🏨 8. Recommended Hotels
🏨 Riverview Mansion Hotel 🏰
– Historic B&B with gourmet breakfast & river views
– 💰 Price: $$
– 📍 222 Main St, Golconda, IL 62938
🏨 Super 8 by Wyndham Harrisburg 🛏️
– Simple, clean stay near trails & food
– 💰 Price: $
– 📍 100A East Seright St, Harrisburg, IL 62946
🏨 Timber Ridge Treehouses 🌲
– Unique nature lodging near Pounds Hollow
– 💰 Price: $$
– 📍 Near Karbers Ridge / Herod Trailhead Area
📞 9. Contact / Info
📍 Shawnee Forest Visitors Bureau: (618-841-4649)
📍 Golconda Marina Info: (618-683-5875)
📍 Harrisburg City Hall / Events: (618-253-7451)
📍 Saline Creek Pioneer Village: (618-252-7707)
🌐 Source: 3clicknavi.com
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