Cave-In-Rock State Park

Cave-In-Rock State Park is located on the north banks of the Ohio River in Hardin County. This state park was created in 1929 but its history dates back several centuries. The 55-foot wide cave is situated on the banks of the river and served as shelter for Native Americans as well as French explorers. During the late 18th century and the early 19th century, the cave served a darker purpose. Outlaws and river pirates used the cave as a headquarters and people who used the river as a means of transportation were robbed and sometimes killed when they passed by. After the outlaws were removed from the cave, it was used for revivals, town meetings, shelter, and even as the backdrop for a western movie.

Cave-In-Rock State Park is a beautiful wooded 204-acre park. It sits on a rugged bluff overlooking the Ohio River. Recreation choices include boating, camping, fishing, and picnicking. There are also two hiking trails that give visitors a variety of scenic views of the park and river.

The park has a restaurant and a lodge onsite. The Cave-In-Rock State Park Lodge has eight suites that accommodate four guests each and offer a scenic view of the Ohio River. Visitors to Cave-In-Rock can use the ferry boat service to cross the Ohio River into Kentucky.

For more information about Cave-In-Rock State Park, write or call:

Cave-In-Rock State Park
1 New State Park Road
Cave-In-Rock, IL 62919
(618) 289-4325 - park information
(618) 289-4545 - lodge information

Directions:
From Marion, take Highway 13 east for 34 miles to Highway 1. Go south on Highway 1 for 20 miles to Cave-In-Rock State Park.

From Shawneetown, take Highway 13 west for 6 miles to Highway 1. Go south on Highway 1 for 20 miles to Cave-In-Rock State Park.

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