2 Lusk Rd, Golconda, IL 62938

Nestled in the heart of Southern Illinois, in the rolling woodlands and open fields of Pope County, lies a rare opportunity: the chance to own a 4.462-acre tract of land that is woven into the fabric of equestrian history. For over half a century, this parcel has stood as both witness and participant in the legendary "Nine Day Trail Ride," an annual event that transforms quiet countryside into a vibrant, bustling community of horse lovers. Every year, as summer wanes and autumn begins to whisper through the trees, thousands of horseback riders converged near One Horse Gap Lake, their trailers and horses weaving together in anticipation of a tradition older than many of its participants. The "9-Day Trail Ride" is more than just a gathering-it's a living celebration of camaraderie, adventure, and a shared love for the majestic Shawnee National Forest. For nine days, the rural landscape is reborn as a temporary town. Tents and campers dot the open fields and woods, laughter and conversation spill into the air, and the sound of hooves echoes off the ancient bluffs. Riders of all ages, backgrounds, and levels of experience come together to traverse some of the most scenic trails in the Midwest. Stories are swapped beside campfires, friendships are forged in the saddle, and memories are made that linger long after the last rider heads home. This parcel is a piece of that legacy. The 4.462-acre tract available in Pope County, Illinois, is much more than a piece of land-it's a cornerstone of this celebrated event. Surveyed and ready for your vision, the property boasts a harmonious blend of woods and open space, offering limitless possibilities for those who dream of crafting their own private horse camp or retreat. Whether you envision a rustic cabin nestled beneath towering oaks or a spacious paddock for your horses to roam, the land's diverse terrain is your canvas. A gravel road leads to the property, ensuring convenient access for trailers and campers, while available electric lines promise modern comforts amid the serenity of nature. For decades, this spot has welcomed the footsteps and hoofbeats of countless riders, serving as both a meeting place and a gateway to the wonders of the Shawnee National Forest. Few places in the Midwest rival the beauty and diversity of the Shawnee National Forest. Spanning nearly 300,000 acres, its hills, canyons, and lakes create a patchwork of breathtaking vistas and hidden gems. Horse trails wind through old-growth forests, across sparkling streams, and up to panoramic overlooks where the world seems to pause. Owning the 4.462-acre tract means more than simply acquiring property-it's a chance to become a steward of history. The land is perfectly suited for development as a private horse camp, a family getaway. The open area is ideal for paddocks, riding ring, or gathering spaces, while the wooded sections provide shade, habitat, and the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze. Electric access and a gravel road make the logistics effortless, allowing you to focus on what matters most: creating your own legacy amid the traditions of the former Nine Day Trail Ride. Whether you're an avid rider, a lover of the outdoors, or someone seeking a unique investment with deep roots and broad appeal, this parcel offers unmatched potential. Picture yourself waking to the soft light filtering through the trees, horses grazing contentedly nearby, the anticipation of a new day's ride ahead. Your evenings are spent around a crackling fire, enveloped in laughter and the quiet peace that only the forest can offer. Owning this parcel means you are part of every story told, every memory made, and every tradition honored. Whether you choose to build, camp, or simply hold the land as a cherished piece of history, you'll find endless possibilities within these 4.462 acres. The opportunity to own a piece of the iconic Nine Day Trail Ride in Pope County, Illinois, is rare and remarkable.