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Cave in Rock
As you cruise down the Ohio River, look up at the limestone bluffs and you will see a massive 55-foot-wide cave peering over you.
Plan Around Cave in Rock
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Cave in Rock Details
As you cruise down the Ohio River, look up at the limestone bluffs and you will see a massive 55-foot-wide cave peering over you. This ominous cave is steeped in mystery, as it was believed to be used by Native American tribes thousands of years before it was ever discovered by European settlers. However, once it was discovered in 1790, it became a hiding spot for pirates, fugitives, and criminals looking to escape the grasp of law enforcement. And in the mid-1800s, it was used as a church for the early settlers of the nearby town of the same name. The cave is located inside Cave-in-Rock State Park. There are also several different trails for hiking, a small pond for fishing, and a camping ground for overnight stays.
Difficulty
Low
Distance
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Estimated time
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Nearby Parks Around Cave in Rock
Compare nearby parks around Cave in Rock when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Cave in Rock
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Cave in Rock while the map context is still fresh.
0.4 mi away
Cave-In-Rock State Park
Cave-In-Rock State Park is known for its historic Cave-In-Rock landmark.
9.5 mi away
Illionois Iron Furnance
Once used to smelt iron ore that was collected from the nearby mines, this once-functioning furnace is now a fascinating historic site in the Shawnee National Forest.
11.4 mi away
Rim Rock Trail
This well-maintained trail has a lot to keep you entertained while you hike the rim of the namesake rocky outcropping.
15.2 mi away
Whiskey Cave Loop Trail
One of the most challenging (but most rewarding) hikes through the Shawnee National Forest is this uphill hike to Whiskey Cave.
15.6 mi away
Garden of the Gods
This short but challenging hike through the Shawnee National Forest gives you front-row seats to one of the coolest geological structures in Southern Illinois.
