Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area

Bell Smith Springs is one of the most beautiful recreation areas the Shawnee National Forest has to offer. It contains a series of clear, rocky streams and scenic canyons bordered by high sandstone cliffs and an abundance of vegetation unique to Illinois. The trail system consists of eight miles of interconnected trails featuring strange and wonderful rock formations, such as Devil's Backbone, Boulder Falls and a natural rock bridge. Hiking this system of trails is a favorite activity because of the rock features, scenic overlooks, hidden springs and lush flora and fauna.

General Information

Trail Highlights

Interpretive signs explain Bell Smith Springs’ unique ecosystem and history. Stone steps built into the side of cliffs lead to the bottom of the canyon. Magnificent oak and hickory trees dominate the wooded slopes along the trail. The bottom of the canyon is filled with huge beech and tulip poplar trees that line the creek. During the spring, wildflowers carpet the forest.

Trails pass deep pools along the creek’s edge, rock shelters in the bluffs and magnificent rock formations. You will encounter several scenic overlooks, some of which provide views of Bay Creek. Trail loops include Sentry Bluff Trail, traveling along an exposed sandstone cliff above the canyon floor; Mill Branch Trail, winding on either side of Mill Branch Creek; and Natural Bridge Trail, crossing the highest natural bridge with a span of 125 feet and an arch of 30 feet.

National Natural Landmark

Bell Smith Springs’ distinct plant communities and geological features make it a National Natural Landmark. Here, you will find a variety of habitats for plants and wildlife. Birders come from across America to find tanagers, sparrows, pileated woodpeckers, eastern phoebes and several different species of vireos. The canyons and wooded slopes provide habitat for more than 700 species of flowering plants, ferns and lichens.

Glass containers not allowed

Glass containers (food and beverage) prohibited in Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area

Know Before You Go

In springtime water in the creeks will be calf-high or more and deep pools exist along the creek any time of year - Use cautious when crossing creeks.

Due to the remoteness of the canyon precautions should be taken: Carry water, food, first-aid kit, etc. Cell phones do not reach out of the canyon. Expect longer response times by emergency personnel.

Poison ivy & venomous snakes are present.

In the event of an emergency, call 911.

Bell Smith Springs Trail System is open year round. Redbud Campground is open 3/15 - 12/15

Forest Order is in place that prohibits possessing any food or beverage glass containers in the Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area, excluding the Redbud Campground. (persuant 36 CFR 261.58cc)
Pets are allowed only on a leash.
Stay on the designated trails.
Use trash receptacles. Pack It In, Pack It Out rules apply to the entire trail system.
Camp only at designated sites in the campground.
No camping allowed in Natural Area.
No horseback riding is allowed in the day-use areas.

No fee currently

Redbud Campground: Campsites $10/night - 8 people & 2 vehicles max. Payment cash or check only.

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 37.519264

Longitude: -88.657461

Directions

From Harrisburg: Take Highway 145 south 11 miles to Burden Falls Road. Turn right, go 5 miles to Ozark Rd. Turn south (left). Go to Bell Smith Springs Rd. Turn southwest (right) and proceed 2 miles to Bell Smith Springs.
From Vienna: Take Highway 45 north 12 miles to Ozark Road. Turn east (right). Go 10 miles to Bell Smith Springs Rd. Turn southwest (right) and proceed 2 miles to Bell Smith Springs.