Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations
Swimming hole in Evansville (in), Iowa · Creek
Guide to swimming in Shawnee National Forest. Find details on lake beaches and creek swimming holes at Pounds Hollow, Iron Furnace, and Bell Smith Springs.
About Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations
Tucked into the rugged hills of southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest is one of the Midwest's best-kept secrets for natural swimming. Stretching across a dramatic landscape of sandstone bluffs, ancient hardwood forests, and clear-running creeks, this federal forest offers several distinct swimming destinations — each with its own personality, terrain, and sense of discovery. Whether you're spreading a towel on a sandy beach or picking your way across mossy rocks to reach a hidden swimming hole, Shawnee delivers an outdoor experience that feels genuinely wild.
The Setting and Landscape
Three destinations stand out within the forest. Pounds Hollow is the most accessible of the group, offering a designated swimming beach on a peaceful lake surrounded by wooded hillsides — the kind of place where the water glitters in afternoon light and families wade in from a gentle shoreline. Iron Furnace takes you deeper into history, where the ruins of a 19th-century iron smelting operation rise from the forest floor beside a quiet creek, giving the whole scene a haunting, layered quality. Bell Smith Springs is the geological showstopper: a network of canyon-carved waterways, natural bridges, and formations like the aptly named Devil's Backbone create a landscape that feels more like the American Southwest than central Illinois. Crystal-clear water winds through corridors of sculpted rock, and the lush canopy overhead keeps temperatures cool even on warm summer days.
What Swimming Is Like
Across these destinations, you'll find creek and lake water that tends to run clear — fed by natural springs and shaded by dense forest cover. At Pounds Hollow, the swimming is straightforward and welcoming, with a proper beach area making it ideal for swimmers of all skill levels. Bell Smith Springs rewards more adventurous visitors with natural pools formed by the flow of spring-fed creeks through limestone and sandstone corridors; the water is typically cool and refreshing, perfect for a mid-hike plunge on a hot July afternoon. Iron Furnace offers a more contemplative experience — the swimming here is natural and undeveloped, better suited to those who don't mind exploring. Note that lifeguards are not confirmed at any of these locations, so swim with caution and bring a buddy.
Practical
The experience
- Best time to visit For optimal conditions, visit during late spring to early fall (May through September). Summer provides warm temperatures for swimming, while autumn offers stunning foliage for photography.
- Access Moderate. Pounds Hollow is easily accessible while Iron Furnace and Bell Smith Springs require careful navigation and sturdy footwear due to rugged terrain.
- Facilities Pounds Hollow features toilets, water stations, and nearby camping. Iron Furnace offers picnic areas but limited facilities. Bell Smith Springs has campgrounds and trail maps.
- Camping nearby There are two Forest Service campgrounds very nearby..
Highlights & features
- Picturesque swimming beach at Pounds Hollow
- Historic iron smelting site at Iron Furnace
- Geological wonders at Bell Smith Springs
- Crystal-clear waters and lush vegetation
- Hiking trails and abundant wildlife
- Designated swimming beach at Pounds Hollow
- Historic iron furnace structure at Iron Furnace
- Iconic rock formations like Devil's Backbone at Bell Smith Springs
How to get there
Pounds Hollow Recreation Area A small, picturesque lake with an official swimming beach located within the Shawnee National Forest. This area also features a campground for visitors.
-
Directions from Harrisburg, IL
-
Start by heading east on Route 13 for approximately 14 miles.
-
Turn south (right) onto Route 1 and continue for about 9 miles.
Turn right onto Route 5600E (Pounds Hollow Road) and drive for approximately 2 miles.
-
The Pounds Hollow Recreation Area will be on your right. Parking is available near the beach area. Landmarks
Look for signs for Pounds Hollow Recreation Area along Route 5600E. The swimming beach is located directly on the lake. Coordinates for GPS: Latitude: 37.61566, Longitude: -88.2736 Google Maps Link Iron Furnace Recreation Area This historic site features an old iron furnace listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The area offers picnicking, hiking, and a swimming hole in Big Creek.
-
Directions from Harrisburg, IL
-
Head south on Route 145 for approximately 6 miles.
-
Turn east (left) onto Route 34 and continue for about 12 miles.
-
Turn east (left) onto an unnamed road toward County Road 225E and drive for 3.3 miles. The road will curve to the right twice.
Turn right onto County Road 225E and continue for 2.2 miles. The Iron Furnace Recreation Area is located at the junction of County Road 225E and Route 12. Parking is available near the furnace site. Landmarks: Look for the historic iron furnace structure and signage indicating the recreation area. The swimming hole is located in Big Creek nearby. Coordinates for GPS: Latitude: 37.49904, Longitude: -88.3284 Google Maps Link Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area One of the most beautiful destinations in the Shawnee National Forest, Bell Smith Springs features clear streams, scenic canyons, sandstone cliffs, and lush vegetation. The area includes interconnected trails, rock formations, and hidden springs, with swimming holes available in the streams.
-
Directions from Harrisburg, IL
-
Head south on Route 145 for approximately 15 miles.
-
Turn west (right) onto Water Tower Road and drive for about 2.5 miles.
Continue straight onto McCormick Road/Ozark Road and drive for an additional 1.2 miles.
-
Turn south (left) onto Forest Road 447 (past Teal Pond) and continue for approximately 2 miles.
-
The Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area will be on your left. Parking is available near the trailhead. Landmarks
Look for signs for Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area and Teal Pond along Forest Road 447. The swimming holes are accessible via the trail system. Coordinates for GPS: Latitude: 37.52191, Longitude: -88.66211 Google Maps Link Enjoy your visit to the Shawnee National Forest swimming destinations! Be sure to bring appropriate footwear for hiking, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
Plan your visit
Shawnee National Forest sits in the far southern tip of Illinois, within reasonable driving distance of several regional hubs. Harrisburg, Illinois is the closest major town for fuel, groceries, and lodging. Evansville, Indiana and Paducah, Kentucky are both within a couple of hours and offer a full range of traveler amenities. However you arrive, give yourself more than a single afternoon — this forest rewards those who linger.
Shawnee National Forest sits in the far southern tip of Illinois, within reasonable driving distance of several regional hubs. Harrisburg, Illinois is the closest major town for fuel, groceries, and lodging. Evansville, Indiana and Paducah, Kentucky are both within a couple of hours and offer a full range of traveler amenities. However you arrive, give yourself more than a single afternoon — this forest rewards those who linger.
Access & fees
Access details vary by site. Pounds Hollow has a designated beach area. Swimming at Iron Furnace and Bell Smith Springs is in natural waterways without formal supervision. Check current forest service advisories for water conditions and any area-specific rules before visiting. A fee may apply at some recreation areas; check official sources for the latest information.
Access details vary by site. Pounds Hollow has a designated beach area. Swimming at Iron Furnace and Bell Smith Springs is in natural waterways without formal supervision. Check current forest service advisories for water conditions and any area-specific rules before visiting. A fee may apply at some recreation areas; check official sources for the latest information.
Frequently asked questions
Is Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations free to visit?
Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations is generally free to access. No entry fee is commonly reported, though parking passes or day-use fees can be introduced — always confirm current rules before heading out.
Is swimming allowed at Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations?
Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations is an informal or unofficial swimming location. Swimming is commonly practiced here, but always follow posted signage and respect any seasonal closures. Activities reported include: Swimming, hiking.
What type of swimming spot is Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations?
Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations is a creek on Varies - see below located in IA, near EVANSVILLE (IN). Guide to swimming in Shawnee National Forest. Find details on lake beaches and creek swimming holes at Pounds Hollow, Iron Furnace, and Bell Smith Springs.
When is the best time to visit Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations?
The best time to visit Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations is For optimal conditions, visit during late spring to early fall (May through September). Summer provides warm temperatures for swimming, while autumn offers stunning foliage for photography.. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather — always check conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations?
Reported facilities at Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations include: Pounds Hollow features toilets, water stations, and nearby camping. Iron Furnace offers picnic areas but limited facilities. Bell Smith Springs has campgrounds and trail maps.. Amenities can change — contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Is camping available near Shawnee National Forest Swimming Destinations?
There are two Forest Service campgrounds very nearby..
Nearby swimming holes
Culture & history
Iron Furnace gives insight into Illinois' industrial history, while Bell Smith Springs showcases the region's geological evolution and biodiversity.
Conservation
Visitors are urged to practice Leave No Trace principles to protect the fragile ecosystems and maintain the area's beauty. Avoid littering and stay on designated trails.