Welcome to Southern IllinoisWelcome to Southern Illinois with its rich historic heritage, a spectacular national forest, and two great rivers. Southern Illinois is unique in its blend of fascinating things to see and do during a day, a week or a month's vacation. It's easy to get here from Interstates 57 or 24. We're less than three hours from St Louis, Memphis, Nashville, or Evansville; less than four hours from Springfield and Indianapolis; and less than six hours from Chicago. Reasons to visit Southern Illinois. Discover the scenic Shawnee National Forest, Garden of the Gods, state parks, historical attractions, unique shops, fabulous restaurants, and riverboat gambling. There is lodging for every taste, including cozy bed & breakfasts, convenient & comfortable motels and hotels, plentiful camp sites and deluxe cabins. We're eager to assist you in anyway to make your stay in Southernmost Illinois memorable! 
 
 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. |