Agencies
Services
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 boat 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
In addition to the Cave-in-Rock Lodge and Restaurant, there are camping accommodations on the scenic north side of the park. There are 34 Class A sites that rent for $20 a night, and $30 a night on holiday weekends/weekdays (Memorial Day, July 4th and Labor Day). Each is equipped with electricity and can accommodate units up to 60-feet long. Twenty-five Class B/S tent sites also are available for $10 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. Accessible sites also are available. Grills are furnished at each campsite.
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 and grills, Four large picnic shelters are available for group gatherings.
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.
Local Attractions
Cave-In-Rock State Park is located in the eastern section of the adjoining Shawnee National Forest. Within a 25 mile radius of Cave-In-Rock State Park are the popular USDA attraction of Garden of The Gods, Pounds Hollow Recreational Area, Rim Rock Trails and Tower Rock Recreational Area. These attractions offer visitors opportunities for hiking, camping, picnicking, fishing, and aquatic activities such as swimming and boating activities.
Located 1 mile north of Cave-In-Rock State Park is the Hardin County Golf Club which is open to the public during the summer months. It is a beautiful 9 hole course offering full facilities for the golfer and tee times are available by calling (618) 289-4587. Another popular attraction is the Shawnee Queen tour boat which ports out of the Golconda Marina three times daily and offers a daily 3-hour cruise on the Ohio River from Golconda to Cave-In-Rock. Reservations can be made by calling (618) 683-5875. Visitors are treated to the scenic Ohio River and all the attractions along the way, as pointed out by the professional tour guide.
Located at the river front at Cave-In-Rock is the Cave-In-Rock Ferry, providing transportation to the adjoining state of Kentucky. Visitors may cross on the ferry to Kentucky at no cost to visit the adjoining Amish Country approximately 2 miles south on Kentucky Hwy 91 and Marion, Kentucky, a quaint town known throughout the area for it's antique shops, country dining and southern country hospitality.
Located on Illinois Hwy146 15 miles west of Cave-In-Rock is the village of Rosiclare, home of the Hardin County Fluorspar Museum, a must-see for visitors to this area. Hardin County, where Cave-In-Rock State Park is located is known as "The Flourspar Capital of Illinois." Flourspar is a mineral known for its beautiful colors and its mineral value as a catalyst in the production of steel. Visitors also may visit the Village of Elizabethtown 12 miles west of Cave-In-Rock on Illinois Highway 146. One community attaction is the historic Rose Hotel, a popular Bed & Breakfast. The "Rose" was opened in 1812 by the founder of Elizabethtown, the James McFarland family, and is the oldest hotel in Illinois. Fine dining may be enjoyed while in Elizabethtown at the River Restaurant, located on the riverfront.
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 wet bar, a large bedroom/living room and a private patio deck overlooking the Ohio River. One suite is accessible. The Lodge operates on a seasonal basis. Contact the Lodge at (618) 289-4545.
Dining
The full-service 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 and a full short-order menu along with homemade desserts. Hours are daily 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, call (618) 289-4545 or write Cave-In-Rock Restaurant and Lodging, Cave-In-Rock, IL 62919.
