Any good places to go backpacking?

[ozzuen]

I'm glad there's finnally a forum here about camping.

With that being said, I'm tring to find some new places to go camping and/or backpacking in the Western Kentucky, Southern Illinois, or Northwestern Tennessee areas. I've been to Garden of the Gods in Ill., and a few places in Henderson, and Union Co., KY. I live in Henderson, so anywhere thats pretty close to there is great, but I'm also willing to drive a couple of hours too.

[WBBP]

North-South Trail at LBL.

K

[woodsnwater]

There are several trails at LBL, including the North-South trail as mentioned (I believe it's about 65 miles). Jackson Falls in southern Illinois also has some decent hiking and great rock climbing (although I don't rock climb).

[DIBUCANE]

Red River Gorge.

[Valley Station]

Red River Gorge is a great area. Recommend going in winter or early spring before tree leaf out, so you can can see cliffs, rockhouses and bridges.
Sure not like hiking the Henderson area "Flatland".
Caution, Be careful when it is wet or with kids around the cliffs.

[Pooge]

Anywhere in the Smoky Mountains. You can do anwhere from an overnighter to a week long trek. I have hit about 500 of the over 800 miles of trails in the park so if you have any questions or need a specific trail recommendation let me know.

Cumberland Gap is also a nice place.

[Slickhunter2.0]

Ever heard of rock creek

[Bowcrazy]

Ditto to LBL, the Smokeys and Rock Creek. Big South Fork is good. Beaver Creek. Anywhere along the Sheltowee Trace. Be careful if you go to Red River Gorge, it is beautiful, but can be dangerous, don't wander around at night, same with Beaver Creek and South Fork if you are up on top.

[ptbrauch]

The area around Cumberland Falls has some good trails. The Sheltowee Trace passes right through there and there are a lot of trails that make for good day hikes nearby--several of them along trout streams.

[KyDeerSlayinGrl]

Mammoth Cave NP has some good trails and you can go backwoods camping as well. You have to get a permit though. I work in the park and there is a lot of wildlife, and its a really wuiet, peaceful place to go. There isnt any mts. but there are caves (thats a give-me) LOL But you can call 270-758-2181 for more info.

But I also agree with Pooge, the Smokeys is great! I think there is a hike called laurel Falls if im not mistaken and its a streneous one but very beautiful once ya make it to the top.