Contact Number: 618-634-9678 — Totaling 14,960 acres and home to the Northernmost Cypress Swamp in Johnson, Massac, and Pulaski counties, Cache River State Natural Area is composed of three distinct management units – Little Black Slough, Lower Cache River Swamps, and Glass Hill. They provide food, cover, and water for an incredible diversity of plant and animal species, more than 100 of which have been listed as endangered or threatened by the State of Illinois. The site offers a wide array of recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing and seasonal hunting programs. Visit the Henry N. Barkhausen Cache River Wetlands Center to learn more about the region’s natural wonders.
Cave in Rock State Park, Cave-In-Rock
Contact Number: 618-289-4325 — The heavily wooded park is named for the 55-foot-wide cave that was carved out of the limestone rock by water thousands of years ago. Explore Cave in Rock State Park
Crab Orchard Refuge, Marion
Contact Number: 618-997-3344 — The National Wildlife Refuge visitor center is located at 8588 Route 148 in Marion. It is open daily from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. The visitor center offers exhibits of local wildlife and habitats, as well as maps, regulatory brochures and entrance passes. Call for more information at 618-997-3344 ext. 1. Crab Orchard is home to many natural area and lakes. Explore Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.
Ferne Clyffe State Park, Goreville
Contact Number: 618-995-2411 — Trails wind through picturesque woods, allowing visitors to view fascinating rock formations and inspiring vistas. Explore Ferne Clyffe State Park
Outdoor Recreation – Canoe, Kayak & Boat Rentals, Horseback Riding
Historical Sites
Brewery Your Thing
Big Muddy Brewery, Murphysboro
Contact Number: 618-684-8833 – Located in Murphysboro, the BBQ Capital of Illinois, this small brewery features a nice selection of local beer including their Saluki Dunkel Dog and Galaxy IPA. Also look for the Big Muddy Monster Brew Fest in October. Visit Big Muddy Brewery
Scratch Brewing, Ava
Contact Number: 618-426-1415 – known for it small batch beers made with locally foraged ingredients. The off the beaten path setting and country feel is a favorite with our guests.
Visit Scratch BreweryVon Jakob Brewery, Alto Pass
Contact Number: 618-893-4600 – Also a Shawnee Hills Wine Trail winery and restaurant, this brewery is best known for their Southern Illinois Ale and German Pilsner.
Visit Von Jakob BreweryRoute 51 Brewery, Elkville
Contact Number: 618-568-2739 – See what all the buzz is about. This brewery offers hand-crafted brews, live music and a delicious food menu.
Visit Route 51 BrewerySaint Nicholas Brewing, DuQuoin
Contact Number: 618-790-9212 – A bicyclist themed micro brewery and restaurant, enjoy an ever changing line of specialty beers and foods from their pub menu.
Visit Saint Nicholas Brewery
