In the southern part of the state between the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers lies the vast 289,000 acres of the Shawnee National Forest, which is also called the Illinois Ozarks. It's a place filled with unparalleled beauty that must be seen with your own eyes to be believed. With 300 miles of trails that lead to unique rock formations, bluffs, rivers, forests, hills, streams, and more, this is an area filled with endless possibilities for outdoor adventure. Also within the Illinois Ozarks are several natural features that evoke so much amazement, they can be considered natural wonders.

1. Garden of the Gods

By far the most popular area of the Shawnee National Forest, the 3,300-acre Garden of the Gods is filled with the most incredible sandstone rock formations unlike anything you've ever seen. Explore miles of trails of the Ozark Mountains in Illinois by foot or horseback. But whatever you do, you must hike to a vista point for some epic panoramic views and photo opportunities. Learn more about visiting Garden of the Gods.

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2. Cave-In-Rock

Along the banks of the Ohio River is Cave-in-Rock, an impressive 55-foot-wide cave that was formed by water erosion thousands of years ago. Over the years, bandits, pirates, and other criminal types made this cave their hideout. Today, you can hike inside the cave to get a feel for how big it truly is. Discover more about Cave-in-Rock, a truly unique rock formation in Illinois.

3. Jackson Falls

Not only is Jackson Falls a beautiful waterfall in the Illinois Ozarks, but the surrounding bluffs and rocks provide an excellent area for rock climbing, not to mention some extraordinary scenery. Take a moderately easy five-mile hike to get here - it will be worth it to see these falls! Get more details on Jackson Falls.

4. One Horse Gap

One Horse Gap is a very narrow crevice between the bluffs within the Ozark Mountains in Illinois. Also known as "the gap trail," there is really only enough room for one horse at a time to pass through. The trail leading to the gap is 5.1 miles, mostly through forest. If you are interested in having a hiking adventure here, check out the write-up on All Trails for One Horse Gap.

5. Bell Smith Springs

Eight miles of trails at Bell Smith Springs lead to a natural bridge, sandstone cliffs, and other unique rock formations in Illinois. There is also a shorter hike that leads to an awesome natural swimming hole. This is one part of the Illinois Ozarks that should not be missed! Get information on planning your adventure to Bell Smith Springs.

6. Old Stone Face

Old Stone Face looks exactly like what its name implies - an old stone face. Not only is this rock formation in Illinois an amazing sight to see, but the rugged trail will give you an unbelievable view of the surrounding wilderness. Learn more about Old Stone Face.

7. Sand Cave

The Sand Cave is the largest sandstone cave in the country and an important piece of history as it was used as a rock shelter for the Underground Railroad. There is an easy 1.2-mile trail that leads to the cave that's nestled in the forest. Once you get there, feel free to go inside to cool off. Learn more about the Sand Cave, an awesome spot in the Ozark Mountains in Illinois.

The Illinois Ozarks are filled with so much beauty it can take your breath away. Have you explored much of Southern Illinois? What are your favorite rock formations in Illinois? Tell us in the comments!

Looking for some more hikes? Check out these easy hikes in Illinois!