The Ohio River Valley surrounding Cave-In-Rock, Illinois offers camping opportunities in both Illinois and Kentucky. This area sits where the Shawnee National Forest meets the Ohio River at an elevation of approximately 350 feet. Most campgrounds remain open from March through November, with limited winter camping available at select locations across the river in Kentucky.
What to do
River watching opportunities: At Birdsville Riverside RV Park, campers enjoy front-row views of river traffic. "Watching the barges go up and down the river along with an occasional recreational boat or 2" provides a relaxing way to spend time at camp according to one visitor.
Fishing access: Several campgrounds provide direct lake or river access for anglers. Cypress Lakes RV Park features "a little Lake in it to fish. Not far off the interstate makes it handy," according to Karen S.
Water park visits: During summer months, Venture River RV park offers convenient access to Venture River Water Park. "We would stay here again and bring the cousins to play at the water park," notes Brandon T., making this an appealing option for families seeking both camping and water recreation.
Swimming options: Birmingham Point Campground provides lakeside swimming. "There is a nice swimming beach and beautiful views," reports Erin P., offering an alternative to public pools or water parks.
What campers like
Wide, riverside sites: Campers at Birdsville Riverside RV Park appreciate the spacious waterfront setup. "All open sites waterfront, 30 or 50 amp, sewer and water hookups. Right on the Ohio river!" notes Beth H., who also mentions "Lots of space on door side of TT."
Clean facilities: Outback RV Resort receives consistently positive reviews for maintenance. "Very, very well maintained facilities. Clean bath house. Level asphalt pads with good hook-ups," reports Sara M., who visited during a family emergency rather than a recreational trip.
Organized activities: Several campgrounds coordinate events for guests. Cherri M. notes that Cypress Lakes RV Park offers "Lots of fun activities on Holiday weekends throughout the summer season," while Hannah K. appreciated "fun campground wide activities" at Outback RV Resort.
Wildlife viewing: Birmingham Point Campground offers opportunities to see local wildlife. "We enjoyed the lake view from our site plus we saw deer and eagles in the CG during our overnight stay," shares MickandKarla W.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most RV parks near Cave-In-Rock close during winter months. Birmingham Point operates from "Mar 15 - Nov 15," while Birdsville Riverside RV Park runs from "March 1 to November 30."
Site configurations: Many campgrounds use unique site arrangements. At Birdsville Riverside, "the electric poles and water are shared between each site (you have your own plug but it's in the middle of the two sites) which means the odd number sites are back in, even numbers are pull in," explains Beth H.
Permanent residents: Several campgrounds primarily serve seasonal or permanent campers. At Indian Point RV Park, "There are only 5 pull-thru sites with full hookups on wide open ground, no shade. There are 16 water and electric sites. The 150+ sites are long term rental properties," notes Anthony B.
Flooding concerns: Low-lying areas can experience drainage issues after heavy rain. Duck Creek RV Park had problems where "the sewage flooded and backed up into our campsite" following a rainstorm according to Joan H.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Cypress Lakes RV Park provides multiple water-based activities. "There is a small lake to fish in. Nice play ground for the kids. Also has many activities for the kids," reports Bonnie F.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer playground equipment. Delci L. notes that at Cypress Lakes RV Park, "Kids enjoyed the playground and the reservoir is really beautiful."
Organized activities: Outback RV Resort schedules regular events for young campers. Hannah K. appreciated "fun campground wide activities" and noted the "super friendly and inclusive campers."
Limited hiking opportunities: Not all campgrounds offer extensive trail systems. Erin P. points out that Birmingham Point Campground has limited options: "I enjoy being able to hike and ride a bike which is limited here."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling equipment at most area campgrounds. At Birmingham Point Campground, MickandKarla W. notes "We needed levelers on the door side" and cautions about tight turns for larger rigs.
Length restrictions: Carefully check site dimensions before booking. Birmingham Point Campground has limitations - "We wouldn't go in there with anything over 38'," advises MickandKarla W.
Utility placement: Some rv parks Cave-In-Rock, Illinois and nearby Kentucky have unusual utility configurations. At Birdsville Riverside RV Park, Beth H. explains that "if you had cords and hoses long enough you could also back in knowing that you'd have to go under your camper to hookup."
Pull-through availability: For easier parking, check for pull-through options when booking. MickandKarla W. notes at Birmingham Point Campground, "Of the 76 sites total, the only pull through was site 25."
