Trail of Tears State Forest

The forest spans 5,114 acres across the Ozark Hills region, featuring dense woodlands and diverse terrain with numerous hiking trails throughout the property.

Established in 1929 as Kohn-Jackson Forest, the area was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps and later renamed to commemorate the Cherokee relocation route.

The forest preserves the natural heritage of Southern Illinois through its 222-acre Ozark Hills Nature Preserve and state tree nursery operations.

Visitors can access 22 miles of maintained trails for hiking and horseback riding, with several picnic shelters and camping facilities available throughout the grounds.

The forest contains multiple soil types and ecological zones, supporting a rich variety of native tree species and wildlife populations in Illinois.

Location: Union County

Inception: 1929

Website: https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/TrailOfTears.aspx

GPS coordinates: 37.51530,-89.34030

Latest update: March 11, 2025 12:20