#1 New State Park Rd.
Box 338
Cave-In-Rock, IL 62919
618.289.4325
Few natural formations are as awe-inspiring or intriguing as a cave. The deep,
dark recesses immediately conjure up images of adventure, mystery, terror,
robbers and pirates.
At Cave-In-Rock in southern Illinois, you can experience this fascination for
yourself. Sitting atop the high bluffs overlooking the scenic Ohio River, the
heavily wooded park is named for the 55-foot-wide cave that was carved out of
the limestone rock by water thousands of years ago. Trails winding along the
riverbank offer views of riverboats, barges and other river scenes.
History
The actual history of this imposing natural phenomenon is colorful and
provocative. The first European explorer to encounter it was M. de Lery of
France, who in 1729 called it caverne dans Le Roc. It was a conspicuous
curiosity frequently mentioned by later travelers in diaries and journals.
Following the Revolutionary War, this immense recess came to serve as the ideal
lair for outlaws, bandits and river pirates who preyed on the people traveling
along the Ohio River.
One of the most ambitious of these ruthless malefactors was Samuel Mason. Once
an officer in George Washington’s Revolutionary Army, in 1797 he converted the
cavern into a tavern which he called the Cave-In-Rock.
From this apparently innocent and inviting position, Mason would dispatch his
cohorts upriver to befriend unwary and bewildered travelers with offers of help
and guidance. As they neared the cave, these henchmen would disable their boats
or force them toward the yawning hollow, where the hapless pilgrims would be
robbed, or worse. Few victims lived to tell their story.
By the early 1800s, following the demise of the Mason Gang, the cave sheltered
the even more notorious Harpe Brothers, a pair of killers fleeing execution in
Kentucky. They continued their personal reign of thievery and murder in
Illinois, using the cave as hideout and headquarters until they too were killed.
It’s interesting to note that the cave served as a backdrop for a scene in the
movie “How The West Was Won.” The scene was a near-accurate portrayal of how, in
the 18th and 19th centuries, ruthless bandits used the cave to lure unsuspecting
travelers to an untimely end.
Although other desperadoes continued to take advantage of the secrecy and
seclusion afforded by Cave-In-Rock, by the mid-1830s the quickening westward
expansion of civilization and the steady growth in the local population and
commerce had destroyed or driven out the “river rats” and the cave began to
serve as temporary shelter for other pioneers on their way west. Throughout the
19th century, this remarkable geological feature was an important landmark,
prominently displayed on maps from the period.
In 1929, the State of Illinois acquired 64.5 acres for a park that since has
increased to 204 acres. The well-wooded, 60-foot-high hills and the rugged
bluffs along the river - commanding expansive views of the famous waterway -
became Cave-In-Rock State Park.
In the words of Illinois historian John W. Allen, “Today only the natural beauty
of the historic spot remains, clothed in mystery. In the hollow silence of the
cave that echoes the peaceful cooing of doves, a visitor can let a vivid
imagination run riot. But he can dream little that will be beyond what actually
happened.”
Lodge
Cave-In-Rock Restaurant and Lodging features four duplex guest houses with eight
suites, each accommodating up to four people comfortably. The suites contain
deluxe baths, a dining area and wetbar, a large bedroom/living room, and a
private patio deck overlooking the Ohio River. One suite is handicapped
accessible. The Lodge operates on a seasonal basis. You can contact the Lodge
directly at (618) 289-4545. Lodging
Dining
The restaurant is gaining a reputation for fine southern-style cooking and has
plenty of homemade specialties on the menu. Sunday dinners feature fried
chicken, roast beef with all the trimmings, southern fried catfish, marinated
chicken, shrimp, steaks as well as a full short order menu along with homemade
desserts. Hours are daily 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the full service restaurant. For
more information, call (618) 289-4545 or write Cave-In-Rock Restaurant and
Lodging, Cave-In-Rock, IL 62919.
Hiking
In addition to the natural splendor of the cave itself, the park contains two
established hiking trails of moderate difficulty, plus numerous unmarked trails
for exploration and appreciation of tranquil forests and inspiring views.
Picnicking
For the day visitor, ample parking is provided by five separate lots. There are
three developed playground areas for children; and shaded picnic areas situated
throughout the park provide tables, grills, water hydrants and drinking
fountains. There are four large picnic shelters for group gatherings and
firewood is available on request from the park attendants.
Boating and Fishing
A pond is available for fishing, and the Ohio River provides excellent fishing,
boating and water sport opportunities. The river can be accessed directly from
two launching ramps with adjacent parking on the western edge of the park. The
site superintendent and park rangers can provide details on fishing licenses and
the rules and regulations for fishing and boating on the river.
Camping
On the scenic north side of the park there are camping accommodations with 34
Class A sites that rent for $15.00 a night. They are equipped with electricity
and can accommodate units up to 60-feet long. Twenty-five Class B/S tent sites
are also available for $10.00 a night, and showers, restrooms and dumping
stations are present in both camping areas. Contact the site superintendent or
campground host for camping permits and information. Handicapped sites also are
available. Firewood and grills are furnished at each campsite.
Marina
For a different view of Cave-In-Rock, consider a boat ride down the Ohio River.
Be sure to visit the Golconda Marina located on the river near Golconda at Lusk
Creek. A full-service marina, Golconda offers overnight moorage with 100 slips
available, both covered and open. Slips have electric and water hookups. There
is a marina service and repair, boat lifts, fuel, sanitary pump outs and dry
storage. Multiple free launch ramps are available, along with parking for
trailers and cars, a snack shop, gift shop, and bait and tackle shop.
Directions
Cave-in-Rock State Park is located on the Ohio River in Hardin County, Illinois.
To reach the park from the northern parts of Illinois, proceed south on I-57
exiting at Marion, IL, on highway 13 east. Go east through Marion and Harrisburg
to the intersection of Illinois 1 and 13. Turn south 22 miles on highway 1 to
Cave-in-Rock State Park. From the south, take highway 90 from Marion, KY., and
cross the Cave-in-Rock ferry and follow directional signs to the park entrance.
From the southeast take I-24 west from the I-24 bridge to exit #16, then go 38
miles east on Illinois highway 146 to the park. From Southern Indiana, proceed
through Evansville, IN traveling West on highway 62 and Illinois highway 141 to
Illinois Rt. 1, then go south 36 miles to Cave-in-Rock State Park.
* While groups of 25 or more are welcome and encouraged to use the park's
facilities, they are required to register in advance with the site office to
avoid crowding or scheduling conflicts.
* At least one responsible adult must accompany each group of 15 minors.
* Pets must be kept on leashes at all times.
* Actions by nature can result in closed roads and other facilities. Please call
ahead to the park office before you make your trip.
* We hope you enjoy your stay. Remember, take only memories, leave only
footprints.
* For more information on tourism in Illinois, call the Illinois Department of
Commerce and Community Affairs' Bureau of Tourism at 1-800-2Connect.
* Telecommunication Device for Deaf and Hearing Impaired Natural Resources
Information (217) 782-9175 for TDD only Relay Number 800-526-0844.
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