One of the most well-known swimming holes in the state, Bell Smith Springs is the epitome of a natural wonder. Sandstone cliffs line some parts of the park's trails and huge boulders create fascinating forms in vibrantly blue pools. Today, this spot draws attention from around the state for being one of the best cliff jumping spots around. Beyond that, there are swimming areas, narrow staircases and a one-of-a-kind ladder that has transformed this rocky wonder into a kind of natural water park.

Bell Smith Springs is located within Shawnee National Forest.

There are 8 miles of trails and a natural rock bridge that are worth checking out if you have time to explore the entire area.

Be sure to take the White Diamond trail to get to the swimming hole.

I suggest plotting your path based on whether you want to start your day swimming and dry in the sunshine, or if you'd prefer to build up a sweat and cool off at the end.

Some visitors to the park mentioned going cliff jumping at points across the park.

Do so at your own risk, and always double check the depth of the water before you leap!

While the thrills of visiting Bell Smith Springs gravitate around the water and the massive rocks, there are some other features in the park that will get your heart pumping.

This stone staircase cutting through the sandstone can turn treacherous if you try to run up with wet feet! Sometimes dogs and even young children have found this climb a little nerve-wrecking, but there is an alternative route to get down if need be.

The Devil’s Backbone sounds like it could be the name of a high-speed waterslide thrill, doesn’t it?

It’s actually the name of a series of boulders rising out of water within Bell Smith Springs.

If you are more of a "lie on a beach chair" type than a water slide rider, there are huge angled rocks you could swim up to and sunbath on for a bit.

The thrills you get at Bell Smith are really up to you!

There are a few water holes around the park, but some are better for swimming than others.

Not to alarm you, but you should be on the lookout for snakes before you dive in. Better safe than sorry when it comes to that, in my opinion!

Along the Sentry Bluff Trail, there are ladder rungs extending from the side of a mossy boulder.

It would take me a moment to muster the courage to climb this, but for the views from the top, you have to give it a try.

One of my favorite elements of Bells Smith Springs is that you can get an almost bird's eye view of some of the swimming holes.

A huge canyon runs through the park. Standing at the top of the cliffs, you can enjoy a scenic view of the rock formations that makes them seem almost abstract.

If you decide to tack on some hiking to your water park adventure, check out the Mill Branch Trail.

A rope swing dangles just above the water off the trail. I would be too tempted not to swing on it and cannonball into the turquoise water below!

All across Bell Smith Springs there are trickling creeks and shallow streams.

While I wouldn't go so far as to suggest tubing down these, they could be fun to explore by foot for a little while. Definitely pack some hardy water shoes for this journey!

I'm preparing my road trip snacks now to make sure I get out to Bell Smith Springs as soon as I can. If you are planning to make it out to Ozark, Illinois but don't think you will safely make it home, consider renting an RV to give yourself a little extra time and space to enjoy the journey. Are there any 'attractions' at this natural water park we didn't mention? Let us know!