Bell Smith Springs in Illinois State

Bell Smith Springs

Between the sandstone cliffs, babbling creeks, and secret swimming holes, this lush park is one of the best places to visit in the Shawnee National Forest.

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Bell Smith Springs Details

Between the sandstone cliffs, babbling creeks, and secret swimming holes, this lush park is one of the best places to visit in the Shawnee National Forest. There is an entire outdoor paradise here for you to discover, so it is best if you explore along with one of the interconnected hiking trails. The main attraction at the park is the 150-foot natural stone arch that is located along the Natural Bridge Trail. However, there are several other mesmerizing rock formations that should not be missed as well, including Devils Backbone and Boulder Falls. In the summer, bring your bathing suit and go for a dip in the streams or natural springs scattered around the park.

Difficulty

Low

Distance

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Estimated time

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Nearby Parks Around Bell Smith Springs

Compare nearby parks around Bell Smith Springs when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

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Nearby Points of Interest Around Bell Smith Springs

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Bell Smith Springs while the map context is still fresh.

0.0 mi away

Bell Smith Springs

This might be one of the most popular places to go swimming in the entire state of Illinois!

0.1 mi away

Bell Smith Springs Natural Bridge Trail

This leisurely hike through Bell Smith Springs takes you to the largest natural bridge in the state.

0.1 mi away

Sentry Bluff Trail

A great tour through the Bell Smith Springs, this loop winds along the banks of Bay Creek and offers an off-the-beaten-path experience.

0.3 mi away

Mill Branch Trail

This scenic 1.9-mile loop is full of different types of terrain (dirt, gravel, and pebbles), which makes it an interesting hike for those who crave a bit of nature.

1.5 mi away

Jackson Falls Trail

Venture down this remote 3.7-mile trail to visit a beautiful cascading waterfall in the middle of a wooded forest.