‘Under the Stars, Around the Campfire’ program set at Trail of Tears State Forest

Everyone is invited to come gather ’round the fire at the Trail of Tears State Forest near Jonesboro at 7 p.m. Monday, April 29, for Shawnee Chapter Illinois Audubon Society’s Under the Stars & Around the Campfire program. 

Southern Illinois’ own local folk duo Carter and Connelley will provide entertainment, as well as award-winning storyteller and author Brian “Fox” Ellis.

The free public program for folks of all ages will take place rain or shine at the Trail of Tears State Forest, which is located at 3240 State Forest Rd. near Jonesboro. 

Directions: Turn into the picnic area directly across from the white barn and follow the signs. Be sure to dress for the weather. Rustic seating will be provided, but lawn chairs and flashlights are encouraged. 

In case of rain, the program will be held in a shelter with a fireplace. 

Organizers invite everyone to come early, enjoy a picnic and hike in the state forest, then stay and join the group for music and storytelling. 

More information is available by calling or texting 618-534-7870 or emailing shawneechapterias@gmail.com.

Shawnee Chapter is the local chapter of the Illinois Audubon Society and serves as stewards of War Bluff Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located north of Golconda. 

Illinois Audubon has been helping to preserve Illinois’ flora and fauna since 1897.