They don't get as much appreciation as they should, but Illinois has quite a few natural wonders hiding up its sleeve. There are even some caves in Illinois if you know where to look! (And not just our most famous one, either.) Don't believe us? There's a little-known cave hiding in southern Illinois that's not Cave-in-Rock. Nestled within the best forest in the Prairie State, this rock formation is a must-see for anyone who loves cool geology, neat finds, and hidden gems. And, if you're up for a good hike, this journey will be great for you, as well. The trail to Sand Cave in Illinois is an adventure like no other, and this little-known cavern is the coolest end destination!

Situated in the Shawnee National Forest is a secret little cavern that locals of the Ozark area want to keep secret. This place is too cool not to tell everyone about, though.

Somewhat off the beaten path, Sand Cave is a forest cavern nestled along a 1.2-mile hike that takes you down to the cave and back.

Visitors should find the path easy to navigate, but good walking shoes are always recommended.

This rocky trail is best for hiking, dog walking, horseback riding, birding, and other non-motorized activities.

The highest elevation found at Sand Cave is 104 feet, and chances are you'll have the place to yourself since most people don't know this cave exists.

No tours are needed for Sand Cave!

In the past, this little-known cave was used in the 1800s as a hiding a spot along the Underground Railroad. Many who escaped north took the route through Pope County, and you can see why this deep, dark cavern was used as a shelter.

A few different trails overlap and connect in the area, each full of history.

Luckily, most of what you'll find today is a calm and cool spot in the woods of Illinois that inspires reflection and inspiration. Next time you find yourself in the Shawnee Forest, seek out this hidden cave trail for a short and sweet nature adventure.

What a fun little trail! If you've ever been to Sand Cave in Illinois, we'd love to hear from you. Please share your experiences and photos with us in the comments below. What are some other awesome spots to visit in Shawnee National Forest? (And if caves are your thing, don't worry. We have more!)

For more great hiking in the Land of Lincoln, check out some gorgeous waterfront trails In Illinois that are perfect for a summer's day. Or, try something new entirely!

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/illinois/waterfront-trails-il/