For a soul-soothing Illinois paddling adventure, head to Shawnee National Forest in the far southern part of the state. There, you’ll find Lusk Creek, a secluded stream that flows through a stunning wilderness area.

Lusk Creek and its surroundings have been designated a wilderness area by both the state and federal governments.
Shawnee National Forest/Facebook
This designation protects the region’s rugged beauty and the wildlife that calls it home. It also ensures that a trip down the creek is a pristine paddling adventure on a little-trafficked stream.
Shawnee National Forest/Facebook
Historically, putting in on Lusk Creek was difficult. But in 2018, the Forest Service constructed an access area with a carry-down for canoeists and kayakers who wish to reach the stream.
Shawnee National Forest/Facebook

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Now, paddlers can put in with relative ease and spend a long day exploring the wilderness area.
Shawnee National Forest/Facebook
Its steep bluffs and stunning rock formations make Lusk Creek an absolutely sublime destination for a float trip.
Shawnee National Forest/Facebook
Along the way, look for waterfalls and caves, as well as rapids that can swell to class III in periods of high flow.
The stream’s flow can vary widely and rapidly. The narrow gorge and wide stretches make the creek prone to both shallow spots and flash flooding.
Jerry Riepe/Google
Know the stream conditions before you go, and be wary of any weather in the area.
But if you hit the creek when the flow is just right, you’ll have a paddling adventure that you’ll never forget.
stephanie rider/Google

Be sure to check the local weather and Lusk Creek’s flow before you set out. Visit the  Shawnee National Forest website to see if any advisories or closures have been issued for Lusk Creek. When you’re off the water, stretch your legs with a hike along the panoramic Owl Bluff Trail, which is also located within the Lusk Creek Wilderness Area.

Have you had a chance to paddle Lusk Creek and explore the surrounding wilderness area? What are some other amazing locations for paddling in the Prairie State?

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Lusk Creek Wilderness, Eddyville, IL 62928, USA