Illinois State Parks
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Nelson’s Today – The Shopping Newspaper
Travel Briefs:
Past and Present Collide at Cave-in-Rock State Park
At Cave-in-Rock State Park, in southern Illinois, visitors discover the deep, dark recesses of a cave firsthand. Situated atop high bluffs overlooking the Ohio River, the heavily-wooded Cave-in-Rock State Park features a 55-foot wide limestone cave formed by erosion thousands of years ago.
The site, first discovered by M. de Lery of France, in 1729, was frequently mentioned by travelers in subsequent years. Cave-in-Rock served as a hiding place for outlaws, bandits, and river pirates in the years following the Revolutionary War. In the early 1800’s, the site served as a temporary home to the notorious Harpe Brothers, a pair of killers fleeing Kentucky. The cave also served as backdrop for a scene in ‘How the West Was Won.’
The State of Illinois claimed the 64.5 acre territory for park land in 1929, increasing its size to 204 acres for all to enjoy.
Today, visitors can partake in hiking, picnicking, boating, fishing, and camping at Cave-in-Rock. There is also a marina, which hosts visitors and their boats. The Shawnee Queen, a tour boat which offers a three-hour cruise on the Ohio River to Cave-in-Rock, departs from the marina.
Local attractions include the popular USDA attraction of Garden of the Gods, Pounds Hollow Recreational Area, Rim Rock Trails, and Tower Rock Recreational Area. These attractions are also abundant in hiking, camping, picnicking, fishing, swimming, and boating.
Cave-in-Rock State Park is located on the Ohio River in Hardin County. For detailed directions and to plan your visit, call (618) 289-4325.
– Published in the September 2009 issue.
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Illinois Adventure: Starved Rock State Park
Located approximately an hour west of the Western Suburbs, Starved Rock State Park offers something for all types of adventure seekers.
Starved Rock–one of the “7 Wonders of Illinois”–is best known for its dramatic setting, which consists of eighteen canyons between unique rock formations. These canyons, generally comprised of St. Peter sandstone, were formed by glacial meltwater and stream erosion more than 425 million years ago.
Visitors can explore these canyons and their sparkling waterfalls by hiking along trails exploring the many viewpoints along the Illinois River. Other recreational activities include fishing, boating, horseback riding, picnicking, and winter sports.
Starved Rock State Park is an all-season destination within reach of the Chicago suburbs. For detailed information, visit www.starvedrockstatepark.org.
– Published in the September 2009 issue.