Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations
Swimming hole in Evansville (in), Illinois · Creek
Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations is a creek swimming hole. It is near Evansville (in), Illinois. Fee varies. Best season: Late spring to early fall (May to September) offers ideal water levels, pleasant temperatures, and the most vibrant foliage for exploration.
Typical season: Late spring to early fall (May to September) offers ideal water levels, pleasant temperatures, and the most vibrant foliage for exploration
About Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations
Near Evansville (In) in Illinois, Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations offers a straightforward outdoor swim on Varies - See Below.
The Landscape and Setting Each spot within Shawnee carries its own personality.
At Pounds Hollow, a quiet lake reflects the surrounding forest canopy like a mirror on calm mornings, its designated . Iron Furnace draws you deeper into the forest along Big Creek, where the ruins of a 19th-century iron smelting operation loom dramatically above the waterway. The creek pools beneath limestone ledges and overhanging vegetation, giving the whole scene a moody, almost theatrical quality. Getting here takes some navigation through a more remote stretch of the forest, but the isolation is part of the reward. Bell Smith Springs is the most ambitious of the three. A destination that earns its reputation through rugged sandstone canyon walls that rise dramatically above a network of spring-fed . The terrain demands physical fitness and sure footing, but those who make the effort find themselves . What . Lake, creek, and spring. But they share the refreshing chill of naturally cooled water that makes a summer plunge feel genuinely restorative.
Swim at your own risk at Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations. Check conditions after rain and respect any posted closures.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Creek
- Water body
- Varies - see below
- Fee
- Fee varies
- Nearest town
- Evansville (in)
- State
- Illinois
- Best season
- Late spring to early fall (May to September) offers ideal water levels, pleasant temperatures, and the most vibrant foliage for exploration.
- Access difficulty
- Pounds Hollow: Easy access; Iron Furnace: Moderate due to remote location; Bell Smith Springs: Challenging with rugged terrain requiring physical fitness.
- Restrooms
- Yes
- Lifeguard
- Present (seasonal)
- Camping
- There are two Forest Service campgrounds very nearby.
- Land manager
- U.S. Forest Service
- Activities
- Swimming, hiking
- Facilities
- Pounds Hollow offers restrooms and potable water. Iron Furnace has picnic areas but few developed facilities. Bell Smith Springs features campgrounds nearby but requires preparation for rugged trails.
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visit Late spring to early fall (May to September) offers ideal water levels, pleasant temperatures, and the most vibrant foliage for exploration.
- Access Pounds Hollow: Easy access; Iron Furnace: Moderate due to remote location; Bell Smith Springs: Challenging with rugged terrain requiring physical fitness.
- Facilities Pounds Hollow offers restrooms and potable water. Iron Furnace has picnic areas but few developed facilities. Bell Smith Springs features campgrounds nearby but requires preparation for rugged trails.
- Camping nearby There are two Forest Service campgrounds very nearby.
Highlights & features
- Serene lake swimming at Pounds Hollow
- Historic iron furnace and Big Creek at Iron Furnace
- Scenic canyons and swimming holes at Bell Smith Springs
- Diverse hiking opportunities
- Photography hotspots
- Historic iron furnace site
- Sandstone cliffs at Bell Smith Springs
- Official swimming beach at Pounds Hollow
How to get there
Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations lies in Illinois near Evansville (In), Paducah (Ky), and Harrisburg (Il). Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
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Pounds Hollow Recreation Area Description
Pounds Hollow features a small, picturesque lake with an official . It is part of a Shawnee National Forest recreation area and campground. Driving Directions:
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From Paducah, KY, take I-24 north into Illinois.
Merge onto I-57 north and continue to Exit 54 at Marion, IL.
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Take Route 13 east from Marion to Harrisburg, IL.
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From Harrisburg, continue east on Route 13 for about 14 miles.
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Turn south (right) onto Route 1 and drive for about 9 miles.
Turn right onto Route 5600E (Pounds Hollow Road) and continue for about 2 miles.
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Arrive at Pounds Hollow Recreation Area. The . Helpful Details
Parking is available at the recreation area. Follow signs for the . This location also offers picnic areas and camping facilities. Coordinates: Latitude: 37.61566, Longitude: -88.2736 Google Maps Link
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Iron Furnace Recreation Area Description
Iron Furnace is a historic site listed on the National Register. It features picnicking, hiking trails, and a . Driving Directions:
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From Paducah, KY, take I-24 north into Illinois.
Merge onto I-57 north and continue to Exit 54 at Marion, IL.
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Take Route 13 east from Marion to Harrisburg, IL.
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From Harrisburg, head south on Route 145 for about 6 miles.
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Turn east (left) onto Route 34 and drive for about 12 miles.
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Turn east (left) onto an unnamed road toward County Road 225E and continue for 3.3 miles. The road will curve to the right twice.
Turn right onto County Road 225E and drive for 2.2 miles.
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Arrive at Iron Furnace Recreation Area, located at the junction of County Road 225E and Route 12. The . Helpful Details
Parking is available near the Iron Furnace historic site. Follow signs for Big Creek to locate the . Picnic tables and hiking trails are also available. Coordinates: Latitude: 37.49904, Longitude: -88.3284 Google Maps Link
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Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area Description
Bell Smith Springs is one of the most scenic areas in Shawnee National Forest, featuring clear streams, rocky canyons, sandstone cliffs, and lush vegetation. It offers interconnected hiking trails and . Driving Directions:
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From Paducah, KY, take I-24 north into Illinois.
Merge onto I-57 north and continue to Exit 54 at Marion, IL.
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Take Route 13 east from Marion to Harrisburg, IL.
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From Harrisburg, head south on Route 145 for about 15 miles.
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Turn west (right) onto Water Tower Road and drive for about 2.5 miles.
Continue straight onto McCormick Road/Ozark Road and drive for another 1.2 miles.
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Turn south (left) onto Forest Road 447, passing Teal Pond, and continue for about 2 miles.
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Arrive at Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area. Helpful Details
Parking is available at the recreation area. Follow signs to trailheads and . The area includes multiple trails, scenic overlooks, and rock formations. Campgrounds are located nearby for extended visits. Coordinates: Latitude: 37.52191, Longitude: -88.66211 Google Maps Link Have a safe visit to Shawnee National Forest and its beautiful ! Always follow posted signs and guidelines for safety and preservation of the natural areas.
Plan your visit
Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations works well as a day trip from Evansville (In) or Paducah (Ky). Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Combine the swim with camping at Temple Hill Area or browse more Illinois creek spots in our directory. For the full list in Illinois, see our state directory.
Access & fees
Access and fees vary by site. Pounds Hollow has a developed beach area. Iron Furnace and Bell Smith Springs offer natural water access. Check current US Forest Service conditions before visiting, as water levels and trail access can change.
Top picks for this trip
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What to pack for Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations
Gear we compare side by side for creek swims like this one — water access, sun, and the hike in.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations?
Yes. Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations near Evansville (In), Paducah (Ky), and Harrisburg (Il) in IL is a creek swimming spot on Varies - see below. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
How much does Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations cost?
Plan for fees: Unknown. Rates and policies change — verify with the land manager before you drive.
How do you get to Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations?
Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations is in IL within day-trip range of Evansville (In), Paducah (Ky), and Harrisburg (Il). Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
Explore more nearby swimming guides
Nearby swimming holes
Culture & history
The Iron Furnace site serves as a reminder of the region’s industrial heritage, while Bell Smith Springs showcases the geological history of southern Illinois.
Conservation
Follow Leave No Trace principles. Respect local wildlife and flora. Avoid littering and stay on marked trails to prevent erosion.
Sources & updates
Official land managers cited on this page
Always confirm current rules, closures, and fees on the agency site before visiting.
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.