The Shawnee National Forest

The Shawnee was designated in August 1933 as the Illini and Shawnee Purchase Units. It was proclaimed the Shawnee National Forest by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in September 1939.

Most of the Forest consists of land obtained in the 1930's that was over farmed, and land on which people could no longer make a living.

In the 1930's & 40's, the Civilian Conservation Corps planted much of this land to pine trees to prevent erosion and restore the soil.

The Forest consists of more than 278,537 acres and two Ranger Districts: Mississippi Bluffs, and Hidden Springs Ranger Districts. It has portions of six rivers and creeks that are recommended for inclusion in National Wild and Scenic River System: Bay Creek, Big Creek, Big Grand Pierre Creek, Big Muddy River, Hutchins Creek, and Lusk Creek.

The Forest protects at least ten federally listed threatened and endangered species, 45 or more species listed as regionally sensitive, and over 114 Forest listed species of plants and animals.

The 2000 acre Cave Valley/Cedar Creek area is a non-game bird management area, including the endangered Swainson's Warbler.

The Forest has 80 natural areas, including 10 Research Natural Areas.
Its seven designated Wilderness areas are Bald Knob, Burden Falls, Garden of the Gods, Panther Den, Bay Creek, Clear Springs, and Lusk Creek.

The Hidden Springs Ranger District has fluorspar deposits, the only deposits in the United States. Fluorspar is classified as having "compelling domestic significance". It is important for national security and to the aluminum, steel, chemical and other industries.
The Forest has a system of 403 miles of equestrian/hiking trails, 244 campsites at 9 designated campgrounds, and 17 designated picnic areas. Recreation opportunities range from primitive dispersed (make your own) campsites and trails to developed campgrounds with beaches, showers, and electricity.

For additional information on the Shawnee National Forest, call 1-800-699-6637. Shawnee National Forest also invites you to visit their website located at www.fs.fed.us/r9/forests/shawnee