Local Area Attractions Near Marion / Shawnee National Forest KOA Holiday

Southern Illinois is full of cool spots to explore and the Marion/Shawnee National Forest KOA Holiday is right in the middle of it.  Imagine sipping on local wines, diving into underwater adventures, or wandering through lush forests and stunning rock formations.  From the Shawnee Wine Trail, which offers a delightful journey through scenic vineyards and local wineries, to the thrilling underwater world of Mermet Springs, there's no shortage of unique experiences. This area is a paradise for those who love to taste, explore, and immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors. Not just a wine and water wonderland, Southern Illinois boasts the majestic Shawnee National Forest, home to the awe-inspiring Garden of the Gods. Add to this the furry fun of Rolling Oaks Alpaca Ranch, the excitement of Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour, the historical intrigue of Cave-in-Rock State Park, and the vibrant energy of Walker's Bluff Casino and Mtn Dew Park, and you've got a destination that truly has it all. Whether you're into sipping wine, diving deep, hiking, or gambling, our campground is the perfect basecamp while you discover all the area has to offer.

Shawnee National Forest

Shawnee National Forest

Spanning 289,000 acres, Shawnee National Forest is nestled in Southern Illinois between the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. It features strikingly beautiful oak-hickory forests, flourishing wetlands, lush canyons, razorback ridges and unique geological features. For recreationalists, there are miles of hiking, bicycling and equestrian trails, kayaking, canoeing, established camping, and dispersed camping opportunities. A rare convergence of six natural ecological regions results in a diversity of plant and animal species. With nearly 1 million people visiting annually, the forest serves as a retreat to Americans living in urban areas; more than 30 U.S. cities are within a six-hour drive.

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Lake of Egypt

Lake of Egypt

Located just six miles south of Marion, Illinois, the Lake of Egypt is a secluded expanse of water, with 93 miles of wooded bays and inlets; one of Southern Illinois's hidden treasures.  Illinois locals love the lake.  Some of them have been coming here for lazy summer vacations all their lives. Others call the Lake of Egypt home. All of them love the serenity and the long summer days fishing, boating, leaping off the dock, and grilling on the deck of their cabin as the sun goes down.

Tunnel Hill State Trail

Tunnel Hill State Trail

At one time, the rumble of freight cars reverberated through the narrow tunnel. Wooden trestles, with their system of slanted supports and horizontal cross pieces, spanned numerous bluffs and creeks. Passengers in Pullman cars clocked the miles with these and other landmarks as they traveled one of southern Illinois' most scenic routes.Tunnel Hill State Trail stretches for 45 miles from Harrisburg to Karnak. The trail continues on a trails spur for 2.5 miles from Karnak to Cache River State Natural Area - Henry Barkhausen Wetlands Center on the old Chicago and Eastern Illinois railroad bed.

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Shawnee Hills Wine Trail

Shawnee Hills Wine Trail

Get ready for a grape-tastic adventure on the Shawnee Wine Trail in Illinois! It's like a treasure hunt for wine lovers, linking together super cute boutique wineries. Each spot has its own special vibe and yummy wines that show off what Southern Illinois' grapes can do. Sip on some delicious wines, chill out, and take in the gorgeous views – it's like a mini-vacation in every glass! Whether you're a wine expert or just like a nice glass, this trail is all about fun, tasty discoveries, and stunning scenery. So, grab your friends and get ready to raise a glass to good times on the Shawnee Wine Trail!

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Mermet Springs Scuba Diving

Mermet Springs Scuba Diving

Mermet Springs is one of the most popular dive facilities in the Midwest, attracting the attention of news media and national scuba diving publications, including National Geographic and other diving publications.  The water visibility at Mermet Springs is exceptional and can range from 15 feet to over 60 feet. Water temperature varies with the Midwest seasons and ranges to the low 40s at depth during winter, up to the mid-80s above the thermocline in the summer.  Whether you are looking for a scuba training facility or a dive site that you and the entire family can enjoy, plan your next trip to Mermet Springs, where you can dive in First Class.

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