REDBUD - BELL SMITH SPRINGS
Open for the season. The campground operates March 15 through December 15 annually. Sites are first-come, first-served with no advance reservations. Payment is cash or check only.
Extreme Heat Warning issued July 1 at 1:40PM CDT until July 3 at 8:00PM CDT by NWS Paducah KY
* WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with daily heat index values peaking up to around 110 degrees. * WHERE...All of southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri. * WHEN...Until 8 PM CDT /9 PM EDT/ Friday. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during prolonged extreme heat and high humidity events.
Lane reduction on bridge near IL Iron Furnace
Big Creek BridgeBig Creek Bridge, which carries County Road 12 over Big Creek, near the Iron Furnace recreation site in Hardin County, is reduced to a single central lane due to deteriorating bridge conditions. Motorists should slow down when approaching and traveling over the bridge. For your…
Trigg Tower temporarily closed
Trigg Tower on the Shawnee National Forest will temporarily close this month for necessary repairs. Weather permitting, contractors will begin work May 11, temporarily closing the tower and parking area to visitors. Repairs are expected to take approximately one month, no more than 90 days.Repairs…
About
Redbud Campground is located within Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area in southern Illinois's Shawnee National Forest. This area is renowned for its striking geological features: clear, rocky streams wind through scenic canyons bordered by towering sandstone cliffs and lush vegetation unique to Illinois. The eight-mile trail system connects hikers to remarkable formations such as Devil's Backbone, Boulder Falls, and a natural rock bridge. The campground operates seasonally from March 15 through December 15, offering a primitive camping experience at $10 per night. Sites accommodate up to 8 people and 2 vehicles, with payment accepted by cash or check only. Amenities include vault toilets and potable water. Campers must pack out their trash. Pets are welcome but must be kept on leash, and glass containers are prohibited outside the campground area. Bell Smith Springs is managed by the Hidden Springs Ranger District. The recreation area's trail system remains open year-round, though camping in the designated Natural Area is prohibited. This campground is best suited for tent campers and those with smaller vehicles seeking an immersive experience in one of Illinois's most scenic natural areas.
Directions
From Harrisburg, take Highway 145 south 11 miles to Burden Falls Road, turn right, go 5 miles to Ozark Road, turn south (left), go to Bell Smith Springs Road, turn southwest (right) and proceed 2 miles to Bell Smith Springs.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $10 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (618) 253-7114 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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