Wilderness Garden of the Gods, located in the Shawnee National Forest in the state of Illinois, is a stunning natural attraction that offers breathtaking views and unique rock formations. Here is a summary of the area, including reasons to visit, points of interest, interesting facts, and the best time of year to plan your visit.

Reasons to Visit:
1. Scenic Beauty: Wilderness Garden of the Gods is renowned for its scenic beauty, offering visitors a chance to explore a rugged landscape filled with towering sandstone rock formations and panoramic vistas.
2. Hiking and Recreation: The area provides numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, allowing visitors to experience the beauty up close and engage in outdoor activities like picnicking, camping, and horseback riding.
3. Photography Opportunities: With its unique rock formations, stunning sunsets, and sprawling vistas, Wilderness Garden of the Gods offers ample opportunities for photographers to capture memorable images.

Points of Interest:
1. Observation Trail: The Observation Trail is a popular 1/4-mile loop that takes visitors through the heart of the rock formations, offering breathtaking views and an immersive experience.
2. Camel Rock: One of the most famous rock formations in the area, Camel Rock resembles a kneeling camel and is a popular spot for photos.
3. Anvil Rock: This peculiar formation, resembling an anvil, is a favorite among visitors and provides a great viewpoint to admire the surrounding landscape.
4. Devil's Smokestack: This unique rock pillar stands tall and offers panoramic views of the Shawnee National Forest.

Interesting Facts:
1. The rock formations in Wilderness Garden of the Gods are believed to be over 300 million years old, formed by erosion and weathering over time.
2. Native American tribes once inhabited the area, and artifacts have been discovered, indicating their presence and use of the land.
3. The area is rich in flora and fauna, with a diverse range of plants and wildlife, including rare and unique species.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Wilderness Garden of the Gods is during the spring and fall seasons. In spring, the area bursts with wildflowers, providing a beautiful backdrop to the rock formations. Fall offers vibrant foliage, creating a stunning display of colors. Summers can be hot and humid, and winters can be cold, so it is advisable to check weather conditions before planning a visit.

It is always important to verify information from multiple independent sources to ensure accuracy and to check for any updates or changes in visiting regulations or guidelines.