State Park
Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground
Shawnee National Forest · Herod, IL
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State parks set their own rules and reservation systems. Fire bans, road closures, and operating dates change seasonally — check the state park website before traveling.
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Official sources & verification
Managed by State Park
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- Agency source page
The page our published rules and notes are derived from.
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- Address:Herod, IL
About
One of the most photographed locations in the state, Garden of the Gods' scenic beauty is extraordinary. In the recreation area you can hike, camp, nature watch or picnic.
The Observation Trail features unique sandstone rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding Garden of the God Wilderness. Interpretive signs explain the geological history. The 1/4-mile trail is made of natural sandstone and takes about an hour to walk. It contains short, steep grades and steps; benches are located along the trail and as a whole the trail is not tiring. Caution should be used due to the high cliffs in the area.
Overnight parking allowed at Backpacker's Parking Lot only (Indian Point Trailhead).
Pets are allowed only on a leash.
Picnic areas and Observation Trail are open 6am-10pm.
Use trash receptacles where available. Pack It In, Pack It Out while on trails.
Camp only at designated sites in the campground.
Disposable food and beverage containers are not permitted on the Observation Trail.
Stay on the designated trail and leave the beauty of the rocks and plants for others to enjoy.
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Amenities
Flush Toilets
Potable Water
Electric Hookups
Picnic Tables
Fire Rings
Trash Service
Cell Service
Campground Rules
- Campfires generally permitted — verify current fire restrictions before lighting
Within ~30 miles
Trails near Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground

Indian Point Trail
Illinois
1.7 mi
TrailDifficulty: Moderate

Whiskey Cave Loop Trail
Illinois
6.5 mi1,325 ftgain
TrailDifficulty: Difficult

Garden Of The Gods Loop
Illinois
6.4 mi1,257 ftgain
TrailDifficulty: Moderate
Pharoah Trail
Illinois
0.2 mi167 ftgain
TrailDifficulty: Easy
Backpacker
Illinois
0.2 mi39 ftgain
TrailDifficulty: Easy

Garden of the Gods Observation Trail
Illinois
0.5 mi141 ftgain
TrailDifficulty: Easy
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