Dog-Friendly Activities in Cave-in-Rock, IL

Leashed dogs are welcome at Cave-in-Rock State Park in Cave-in-Rock, IL, where a 55-foot-wide cave is the main attraction. After checking out the cave, you and Fido can enjoy the pet-friendly trails through this heavily wooded park. Some of them are marked, some of them unmarked, but all are challenging and lead to stunning views. There are a number of picnic areas that overlook the water as well.

The dog-friendly Shawnee National Forest covers more than 270,000 acres in parts of ten counties in southern Illinois. The National Forest Service and Illinois Department of Natural Resources maintain dozens of natural areas for recreational use and several wilderness areas. From the 90 foot Pomona Natural Bridge to the remains of a Mississippian Native American village at Millstone Bluff, there are hundreds of miles of hiking trails to choose from. Trails range in length from the 150+ mile River to River Trail that runs between Battery Rock on the Ohio River and Devil's Backbone on the Mississippi River, to the easy one-fourth mile Observation Trail at Garden of the Gods. Dogs must be leashed at all times.

Rim Rock National Recreation Trail is a wonderful trail for a hike with your pup in Junction, IL. This popular dog-friendly trail winds through massive rock formations around the rim of a rock escarpment. You'll enjoy the beautiful views while your pup enjoys the exercise. Just keep Fido leashed on the trail.

Dog-friendly Garden of the Gods Recreation Area in Herod, IL, features 320-million-years old formations that are made of sandstone. Pets must be on leash while visiting any area in the Shawnee National Forest. The Observation Trail is a .25 mile long interpretive trail that allows you to encounter many unique rock formations, as well as the beautiful view of the Shawnee Hills. If you plan on spending more time in the area, there is great access to the River-to-River Trail from the Garden of the Gods Recreation Area.

Leashed pups are welcome at Saline County State Fish and Wildlife Area in Equality, IL. There are four dog-friendly hiking trails in this recreation area that offer 9 miles of scenic paths through the woodlands. The 105-acre lake in the center of the park is popular for fishing and boating.