Ohio River Scenic Route begins near Fort Defiance State Park in southern Illinois and travels northeast to the Indiana state line. It follows a series of US, state, and county highways that are suitable for all vehicles. The byway is nearly 190 miles long. A portion runs through Shawnee National Forest and is also known as the Shawnee Hills on the Ohio Scenic Byway.

The Ohio River Scenic Route crosses an area rich in history and natural beauty. In Shawneetown and Golconda there are several historic buildings dating back to the early 1800s. Fort Massac State Park in Metropolis, Illinois' first state park, features a reconstructed fort from the French and Indian War of the late 1700s. Re-creations of pioneer life and other activities take place in the park throughout the year. A campground with 48 RV and tent sites is located in the park. Cave-In-Rock State Park features a small cave once used by outlaws that preyed on travelers of the Ohio River. Visitors to the park can enjoy lunch or dinner at the restaurant overlooking the river.

A portion of the byway travels across Shawnee National Forest where visitors will find hundreds of miles of trails, several campgrounds, and preserved wilderness areas. Garden of the Gods features eight miles of trails winding through unique rock formations. A small, 12-site campground is located here.

Information: Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau, PO Box 278, Ullin IL 62992 / 618-845-3777 or 800-248-4373. Shawnee National Forest, 50 Hwy 145 S, Harrisburg IL 62946 / 618-253-7114. Cave-In-Rock State Park, PO Box 338, Cave-In-Rock IL 62919 / 618-289-4545. Fort Massac State Park, 1308 E 5th St, Metropolis IL 62960 / 618-524-4712. Dixon Springs State Park, RR 2, Golconda IL 62938 / 618-949-3394