Trail of Tears State Forest
Check pricesHike the steep, wooded ridges of the Ozark Hills in southern Illinois, with spring wildflowers, CCC stone shelters and backcountry camping.

Photo: mostateparks, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped and resized.
Missouri state park on the Mississippi River that commemorates the Cherokee forced removal of 1838 and 1839.
429 Moccasin Springs, Jackson, MO 63755-8295 · Jackson, MO
This Missouri state park sits on the Mississippi River and serves as a memorial to Cherokee people who died during their forced relocation to Oklahoma. Several of the relocation groups crossed the river at this spot during a harsh winter. The visitor center has exhibits on that history and on local wildlife. Visitors can also enjoy picnic sites, hiking and horse trails, fishing in the river and in Lake Boutin, and views over the water, which is also a strong spot for watching migrating waterfowl.
The closest stops to Trail of Tears State Park, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.
Hike the steep, wooded ridges of the Ozark Hills in southern Illinois, with spring wildflowers, CCC stone shelters and backcountry camping.
8.4 mi awayMore like this
The visitors bureau for this Mississippi River port city, covering attractions, tours, and events.
10 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing
Walk between towering sandstone bluffs on the Giant City Nature Trail, try rock climbing or a trail ride, and eat at a 1930s CCC stone lodge.
19 mi awayMore like this
A railroad museum in a restored 1903 Illinois Central passenger station, with a locomotive and caboose on site.
23 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums
Paddle or hike through southern Illinois swamps to see bald cypress trees more than 1,000 years old, including the state champion.
30 mi awayMore like this
Walk among the mounds of a Mississippian town on a bluff above the Ohio River and see the pottery and tools dug up on site.
41 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing