Giant City State Park 235 Giant City Road, Carbondale, IL 62958, Located 10 Miles South of Carbondale in Makanda, 618-457-4836, Camping, horseback riding, fishing, picnicking, rappelling, and hiking the Giant City Nature Trail, home of the “Giant City Streets” formed 12,000 years ago by huge bluffs of sandstone, are just some of the many activities to enjoy when visiting Giant City State Park, located in the Shawnee National Forest.  more...

Cedar Lake south of Carbondale, 800-526-1500, 1,750 acres filled with fishing fun. There are bluegill, crappie, catfish, and bass. Swimming is also available.

Crab Orchard Lake Route 148, Carbondale, IL 62901, South of Herrin, 618-997-3344, This 6,985 acre lake is a popular spot for fishing, sailboating, picnicking, water-skiing, and camping.

Devil's Kitchen Campground & Marina 1625 Tacoma Lake Road, Carbondale, IL 62901, 618-457-5004, Surrounded by 810 acres and located on a clear and deep lake, this marina offers bait, tackle, ice, and boat and canoe rentals. A small restaurant is on site. Fully equipped RVs are also available for rent. 

Carbondale Super Block - Sports Multi-Complex 298 Lewis Lane, Carbondale, IL 62901, 618-457-4722, This sports complex features baseball, softball, soccer, football, and track fields. 

Midland Hills Golf Course 309 Midland Hills Road, Carbondale, IL 62901, 618-529-3698, This beautiful 18 hole golf course is one of the most scenic, oldest, and most challenging courses in the area.

Stone Creek 503 Stone Creek Drive, Carbondale, IL 62901, Eight Miles South of Carbondale on US Route 51, 618-547-5455, This 18 hole golf course is one of the most scenic golf courses in Southern Illinois and features most of the tree species native to Illinois. more...