Mount Vernon, Illinois is an inviting town for outdoor enthusiasts offering hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing near scenic lakes, forests, and rivers. Explore Shawnee National Forest and Rend Lake for quality nature experiences year-round.
Mount Vernon, Illinois is an inviting town for outdoor enthusiasts offering hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing near scenic lakes, forests, and rivers. Explore Shawnee National Forest and Rend Lake for quality nature experiences year-round.
Outdoor Adventure in Mount Vernon, Illinois
Mount Vernon is a welcoming basecamp for outdoor lovers in southern Illinois. This small town provides quick access to diverse natural areas offering hiking, paddling, fishing, and more.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Mount Vernon, Illinois, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Mount Vernon, Illinois.
⌖ 50.7 miA self‑guided visit that lets you meet friendly goats and three herds of alpacas along a shaded gravel lane — this guide lays out what to expect and how to pace the visit.
⌖ 54.2 miA 1.5-hour, lantern-lit walking tour that visits New Harmony’s spookiest locations and relays the town’s chilling ghost stories—this guide explains what to expect.
⌖ 54.3 miA guided evening walk through New Harmony’s historic, reportedly haunted streets — this guide explains what to expect and how to plan the outing.
⌖ 59.9 miA concise guide to the orchard visit—wagon-led field time, U‑Pick fruit, cider sampling, farm animals and Grandpa Lester’s Village—describing what to expect and how groups should plan their visit.
⌖ 59.9 miA focused, 2‑hour exploration of bakery, marketplace, production areas and orchards at Braeutigam Orchards — this guide explains what you’ll see and how to plan your visit.
⌖ 70.8 miA three‑hour, toddler‑only play session (ages 3 and under) at Grizzlies Ballpark Field featuring the world's biggest bounce house, the OctoBlast foam party and the intergalactic airSPACE — this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
⌖ 70.8 miAn action‑packed, age‑restricted session offering the world’s largest bounce house, the country’s biggest obstacle course, and a signature OctoBlast foam party — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
⌖ 73.2 miAn evening session in St. Louis where medium Shannon Trump conducts group readings at the Lemp Brewery Séance Parlor, connecting attendees with the spirits of the departed.
⌖ 73.2 miA private guided exploration of Bellefontaine Cemetery and the Lemp Mansion that traces the city’s beer-baron families and their vanished brewing empire.
⌖ 73.2 miA full-day (9-hour) guided outing from St. Louis that visits the USS LST 325 at America’s Central Port in Alton, includes a Melvin Price Lock & Dam tour, and a lunch featuring Castelli’s Moonlight’s Talk-n-Chic fried chicken.
⌖ 73.2 miReserve the Co.Studio for a single hour of dedicated, professional studio time—ideal for photographers, videographers, and small production teams who need a fully equipped space to execute a focused creative session.
⌖ 73.5 miA 90-minute, interactive late-night tour that combines modern and vintage paranormal equipment with the full history of the Lemp family and a midnight toast.
⌖ 73.6 miA guided, instructional and hands-on Ouija séance in the Lemp Brewery sub-basement — limited to four participants and led by local paranormal expert Dr. Mark Farley.
⌖ 74.3 miA spooky-themed trivia night at the Lemp Mansion in St. Louis with a dinner buffet, a cash bar, prizes each round and a grand overnight-stay prize.
⌖ 75.4 miA one-hour, hands-on scent‑making workshop with drinks, light bites, and a photo-ready studio — this guide tells you what to expect and how to plan your night.
Make the most of your visit to Mount Vernon, Illinois with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Mount Vernon, Illinois hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Mount Vernon, Illinois during the iconic Rend Lake Water Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Mount Vernon, Illinois during the iconic Mount Vernon Earth Day Celebration. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Mount Vernon, Illinois during the iconic Jefferson County Outdoor Expo. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Mount Vernon, Illinois is surrounded by incredible protected natural lands offering pristine trails, wildlife habitats, and wilderness conservation.
Garden of the Gods Recreation Area offers spectacular rock formations and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit spot in southern Illinois.
Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois offers a rich mix of woodlands, bluffs, and rivers making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Cache River State Natural Area is a stunning wetland habitat in Illinois, offering unique swamp landscapes and rich biodiversity. It's a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife observers.
Pere Marquette State Park is Illinois' largest state park, offering diverse outdoor recreation along the bluffs of the Illinois River with scenic views, hiking opportunities, and rich natural history.
Rental outfitters provide gear for paddling on Rend Lake.
Check weather forecasts before boating on local lakes and rivers.
Many trails in Shawnee National Forest are better in spring and fall to avoid summer heat.
Camping spots at Rend Lake fill quickly during holiday weekends.
Permits may be required for certain park activities—verify in advance.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Mount Vernon, Illinois. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.