Join Prairie Rivers Network, Friends of Bell Smith Springs and Heartwood for a hike at Bell Smith Springs.

When: Sunday, May 30 from 2:30 to 5:30

Devil's Backbone Bell Smith Springs

Devil's Backbone Bell Smith Springs

Where: Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area, Shawnee National Forest, Southern Illinois

Click here for flyer with information, map, and driving directions.

This is a great opportunity to explore Southern Illinois with interesting people and a guide who knows Bell Smith Springs like no other, Sam Stearns of Friends of Bell Smith Springs.

Register Online Today!

 What you need to know:

  1. Please plan your own food and accommodations.
  2. Bring water.
  3. Plan to get your feet wet.
  4. Camera and/or binoculars recommended. The place is amazingly beautiful!

For more information about Shawnee National Forest and Bell Smith Springs, see the US Forest Service website http://www.fs.fed.us/

Questions? Please call 217-344-2371 or email info@prairierivers.org

For your safety:

Be aware of poison ivy, ticks, and your need for sunblock. Drink water. There are cliffs, steep trails, and narrow stone steps. Not recommended for small children.

Ideas for accommodations:

  • Camping at Redbud Campground or Teal Pond Campground
  • Hotels in Marion, IL

Heartwood Forest Council Meeing

Check out the Heartwood Forest Council meeting being held at nearby Camp Ondessonk. If you attend the Council Meeting, you can stay in dorms or cabins. For more information: www.heartwood.org