Union County: Nature, History, and Wine Trail

In western Union County lies Trail of Tears State Forest, five miles northwest of Jonesboro. The state forest covers just over 5,000 acres and combines distinctive landforms with diverse plant life.

Forest and protected habitats

Narrow, rocky, dry ridges give way to clear streams and wooded valleys in Trail of Tears State Forest; the terrain is steep. A total of 620 species of flowering plants, ferns, and fern allies have been recorded there. The state forest’s name also carries a historical reminder: it refers to the events known as the “Trail of Tears.”

LaRue-Pine Hills/Otter Pond Research Natural Area comprises 14 natural communities and features distinctive geological formations. It is home to 37 plant and animal species considered rare, threatened, or endangered in Illinois. Illinois’s entire woodrat population lives in this natural area. Visitors interested in landscapes and biodiversity will find several distinct aspects to explore together here.

Camping, water, and seasonal wildlife viewing

Trail of Tears State Forest offers Class C tent camping, Class D backpacking campsites, and group camping at some sites. Check camping availability and seasonal road access before you go. The 2.5-mile Snake Road is closed to vehicle traffic in spring and fall because of snake migrations; take these closure periods into account when planning your trip.

Fishing is allowed at Grassy Lake from March 1 through October 15. Outboard motors are limited to 10 horsepower. Because this is a seasonal rule, it is a good idea to check the conditions before your visit. Bird and wildlife watching are among the activities available in Bald Knob Wilderness, and you can hike the Bald Knob Trail. Dispersed, primitive camping is also permitted there. Check current restrictions with the Forest Service before camping.

Local history and crafts

The Union County Museum features Kirkpatrick Pottery from Anna, Native American artifacts, and exhibits on agricultural and railroad history, barrel making, historic tools, the Civil War, and local history. Special openings and tours can be arranged for groups of about 20 to 30 adults; admission is free. Arrange a group visit in advance.

In Jonesboro, the Lincoln-Douglas Debate Site in Lincoln Memorial Park commemorates the 1858 debate between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas. Life-size bronze statues of Lincoln and Douglas stand there beside a limestone memorial boulder. Alto Clay Works offers another way to experience local craft culture: its gallery features handcrafted functional pottery, and pottery classes for adults and teenagers are offered in the classroom. The gallery is open Thursday through Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m.; check the opening hours before you arrive.

Wine Trail and regional experiences

Union County is in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest and the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. The Wine Trail connects 11 wineries along a 35-mile scenic drive on Illinois Highways 127 and 51. The number of wineries and the route may change; check the details if you are planning several stops. Visits to wineries along the trail can be combined with picnics, hikes, shopping, and overnight stays in cabins or bed-and-breakfasts. Alongside forests and natural areas, the wine trail, crafts, and history offer different themes to consider when planning your trip.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Cobden, Alto Pass, Douglas County, Lawrence, Boone County, Washington County, Tazewell County, Edgar.

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