📷 Photo by Michael Heise on UnsplashGarden of the Gods
Herod, IL
Wind-sculpted sandstone formations above the Shawnee National Forest, reached by a short flagstone trail with sweeping views at sunset.
- Nearest town
- Herod, IL
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 37.6040, -88.3780
- Editor's pick
- ★
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April and June. Hot in July. Cold, short days in January–February. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- High Knob CampgroundCampsite2 mi from Garden of the Gods
- Double M CampgroundCampsite6 mi from Garden of the Gods
- Williams Pass & OHV ParkCampsite7 mi from Garden of the GodsTentsCaravans
- Camp Cadiz CampgroundCampsite8 mi from Garden of the Gods · 8 pitches
- Red Bud CampgroundCampsite16 mi from Garden of the Gods · 21 pitchesDogs allowed
- Oak Point CampgroundCampsite21 mi from Garden of the GodsShowersToilets
All campsites in Illinois · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Garden of the Gods?
Garden of the Gods is in Herod, IL, at GPS 37.6040, -88.3780. It is about 37 mi from Metropolis.
Can you camp near Garden of the Gods?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Pharaoh Campground, about 0 mi away; within 25 mi there are 27 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Garden of the Gods?
Garden of the Gods is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Shawnee National Forest: southern Illinois hills.
What is there to see near Garden of the Gods?
Places worth a stop nearby: Cave-in-Rock State Park (15 mi), Superman Statue (37 mi), Giant City State Park (44 mi) and Bald Knob Cross of Peace (52 mi).
When is the best time to visit Garden of the Gods?
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April and June. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)