By:
Submission
Jackson Falls offers many opportunities for technical climbing and is a beautiful scenic area of the Shawnee National Forest. It is in the general forest area located east of the small town of Ozark, IL. This non-developed area has a small trailhead with a vault toilet. A short trail leads from the trailhead to the top of Jackson Falls. There are high dangerous bluffs in the area, visitors should be cautious and aware of their surroundings. Camping is allowed here at no cost, since this is part of the general forest area and not a developed campground. Access: A narrow gravel road leads to the Jackson Falls Trailhead, but then the road becomes dirt and deadends past the trailhead.
This is a dangerous trail for children, but for those able to do this trail to the bottom of the falls is a rewarding experience. The roads are terrible. The forest service is doing a horrible job of maintaining roads, parking lots, and amenities such as toilets but nature here picks up the slack with rewarding scenery and peaceful atmosphere.
A great place to do some more remote camping. Limited facilities so be prepared to dig a cat hole to poo. Great hiking and saw several people horseback riding. Also very good sport and Trad climbs, with mostly bolted top anchors.
