Cave-In-Rock State Park: History and Natural Beauty on the Ohio River
Explore a historic cave, hike scenic trails, and discover breathtaking Ohio River views at Illinois' Cave-In-Rock State Park.
Cave-In-Rock State Park in Illinois offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The park's namesake cave, carved by the Ohio River, served as a landmark and hideout for river pirates in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, visitors can explore the cave, hike scenic trails, and enjoy stunning views of the Ohio River.
A brief summary to Cave-In-Rock State Park
- 1 New State Park Rd, Cave-In-Rock, Illinois, 62919, US
- +1618-289-4325
- Visit website
Local tips
- Explore the cave, but be aware that the riverfront is uneven and rocky, and there are 55-60 stairs leading to the cave.
- Hike the Hickory Ridge Trail, a 1.9-mile loop with forested views, suitable for families.
- Visit the Cave-In-Rock Restaurant & Lodge for Southern-style cooking and scenic river views.
- Consider taking the Cave In Rock Ferry across the Ohio River to Marion, Kentucky, to visit Amish shops.
- Check for flooding conditions before visiting, as the cave may be inaccessible during high water levels.
Getting There
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Driving
Cave-In-Rock State Park is located on 1 New State Park Rd, Cave-In-Rock, IL 62919. From the intersection of Illinois Route 1 and Main Street in Cave-In-Rock, head north on Main St, then turn right onto Broadway St. Continue onto New State Park Rd, and the park entrance will be on your right. Parking is available in multiple lots throughout the park. Parking is free.
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Walking
From the village of Cave-In-Rock, the park is accessible by foot. From the center of town near the intersection of Main Street and Illinois Route 1, walk east on Broadway Street, which turns into New State Park Rd. Continue along the road until you reach the park entrance on your right. The walk is approximately 0.5 miles and takes about 10-15 minutes. Be aware of vehicle traffic along the road.
Discover more about Cave-In-Rock State Park
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