When summer hits Illinois, nothing feels better than a break from the sweltering sun than a dip in the pool. Especially if you’re taking part in an outdoor activity like hiking, a quick cool-off can give you the motivation you need to keep going. But where can you possibly swim in the middle of a forest? Well, this Illinois swimming hole in Shawnee National Forest might just be your next summer adventure.

Jackson Falls is a stunning waterfall hidden within Shawnee National Forest. See that tiny blue dot in the middle? That's the falls!
Illinois swimming hole in Shawnee National Forest
David Willis (Ravenflight)/Google
It can be accessed by entering the park at Glen Street Falls Road in Simpson, Illinois.
Up close, you discover that the waterfall empties into a small pond below. Its magnificent blue-green color and clear waters are what make it an ideal summer swimming hole.
C B/Google
Surrounding the secret swimming hole are towering bluffs and boulders.
Cory Gibson/Google

Related Stories

You’ll Want To Spend All Day At Bork's Falls, A Waterfall-Fed Pool In Illinois

You’ll Want To Spend All Day At Bork's Falls, A Waterfall-Fed Pool In Illinois

 The Rugged And Remote Hiking Trail In Illinois That Is Well-Worth The Effort

The Rugged And Remote Hiking Trail In Illinois That Is Well-Worth The Effort

 Exercise Extreme Caution When Hiking In This Dangerous Illinois National Forest

Exercise Extreme Caution When Hiking In This Dangerous Illinois National Forest
A short offshoot from the main trailhead will lead you straight to the top of the falls, then it's a short hike down to the bottom.
Brenden Bailey/Google
But the refreshing reward is well worth it — Jackson Falls is one of the best-kept secrets in Illinois for swimming!
Timothy Rittenhouse/Google
People and dogs alike love wading into the cool waters and going for a few laps as a reprieve from the hot summer sun. Plus, when you take the hike to Jackson Falls, you'll pass by other waterfalls and streams.
Marcus Webb/Google
This is absolutely making it to my bucket list.

So, would you dive into this majestic Illinois swimming hole in Shawnee National Forest? Is there another hidden swimming hole that you know of? Tell us in the comments! Start planning your trip by checking out the Jackson Falls website. And while you’re here, try a new adventure by climbing the bluffs of Jackson Falls, a beloved pastime and one of the best places to rock climb in the state. Or check out the breathtaking stone formations at the Garden of the Gods.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Illinois

Featured Addresses
Jackson Falls, Glen St Falls Rd, Simpson, IL 62985, USA