Hidden Springs (Illinois)
1,200 Acres of Forest Hiding Five Fishing Ponds and Illinois’ Biggest Sycamore
Hidden Springs State Forest lives up to its name — tucked away in Shelby County, Illinois, about 10 miles southeast of Shelbyville, this 1,200-acre forest is one of the state’s best-kept secrets for quiet woodland recreation. Five stocked fishing ponds, interpretive nature trails, and a massive champion sycamore tree await visitors who venture off the beaten path into this rolling landscape of oak, hickory, and walnut.
Originally known as Shelby State Forest, the name was changed to honor the natural springs that emerge from the rocky hillsides — springs that early settlers depended on and that still flow today, feeding streams and creating the moist microhabitats that support the forest’s remarkable diversity.
Three Trails Through Living History
The Possum Hollow Nature Trail (3/4 mile) is the forest’s interpretive gem — 35 numbered stations with available trail guides explain the ecology, history, and forest management practices along the route. The trail passes Park Pond and a pine seed orchard, where experimental plantings test which tree species thrive in central Illinois soils.
The Big Tree Trail (1 mile) leads to the forest’s most impressive resident: a massive sycamore tree measuring 78 inches in diameter — one of the largest individual trees in Illinois. Standing beside this giant, with its ghostly white bark and spreading canopy, provides a visceral sense of what Illinois’ pre-settlement forests looked like.
The Rocky Spring Trail (3 miles) follows the namesake spring past a forest improvement demonstration area and black walnut production sites. Additionally, 17 miles of fire lanes provide access to the forest’s more remote sections for longer explorations.
Five Stocked Fishing Ponds
Hidden Springs maintains five fishing ponds stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and channel catfish. Some ponds are accessible by vehicle; others require short hikes through the forest — and these walk-in ponds see less fishing pressure, creating excellent conditions for patient anglers.
The ponds are managed under Illinois fishing regulations, and the combination of multiple water bodies with varying characteristics means different ponds fish differently depending on season, weather, and time of day.
Camping and Picnicking
Possum Creek Campground offers Class “C” camping — vehicle access but no showers or electricity — with drinking water, privies, pedestal stoves, and fire rings. Camping is first-come, first-served, with permits issued by forest staff during routine rounds. The Shady Grove group campground is available by reservation for larger gatherings.
The Rolling Meadows picnic area features a large shelter, playground equipment, and open green space for day visitors. Swimming is prohibited throughout the forest.
