Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Route The Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Route is a 50-mile byway that travels through the southwestern area of Illinois, near Alton.
Meredosia NWR Meredosia NWR is located along the east side of the Illinois River in Cass and Morgan Counties about 50 miles west of Springfield, IL. It is located in the upper end of the Alton Navigation Pool in an area that was historically known for its ability to sustain fish and wildlife. Land management programs are designed and administered to promote migratory bird, fish and resident wildlife habitat in the Illinois River basin, while providing for increased public recreation and educational opportunities. When acquisition is complete, the refuge will include a combination of high quality backwater lake, bottomland forest, upland forest, prairie, seasonal wetland and permanent marsh habitat for migratory birds, fish and resident wildlife. As a functioning floodplain wetland complex, the refuge will play a vital role in perpetuating biological diversity in the Illinois River basin.
Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie The Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie established in 1996 is the nation's first federally designated tallgrass prairie. "Midewin", pronounced "Mih-DAY-win", is the Potawatomi name for their healing society. Due to cleanup operations, the area is not open to the unescorted public with the exception of two 1.5-mile hiking trail loops for birdwatchers. A variety of tours including hiking, horseback riding, biking, and environmental exploration are offered on this 19,165 acre parcel of land being restored to a tallgrass prairie ecosystem. The tour schedule is available on the Midewin website Calendar of Events.
Ohio River Scenic Route- Illinois This scenic byway travels along the Ohio River through the southern area of Illinois, near Golconda, Metropolis and Cairo.
Rend Lake Rend Lake, IL, located in the heart of southern Illinois, is a natural haven for wildlife and a recreational haven for visitors. Rend Lake consists of 18,900 acres of water and 20,000 acres of land. Campers will delight in the nearly 800 sites found in 5 public campgrounds on Rend Lake. Boaters are provided access to the lake through the numerous boat ramps. Beaches, picnic sites and trails provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor fun. Nearby attractions such as the 27-hole championship Rend Lake Golf Course, Southern Illinois Artisans Shop, and the Rend Lake Resort provide special opportunities for the recreationist.
Shawnee National Forest Welcome! Explore the Shawnee National Forest. Enjoy the splendors of the varied natural resources of the largest, most diversified treasure in Illinois. Major highways lead to this heartland. Find some of the most beautiful scenery in the Midwest.
