Southern Illinois' Shawnee National Forest region contains diverse woodland terrain surrounding Elizabethtown at 374 feet above sea level. The area features karst topography with limestone formations and numerous hiking trails connecting cabin accommodations. Weather varies significantly between seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F and winter lows frequently below freezing.
What to do
Explore cave formations: Cave-in-Rock State Park offers unique geological features beyond the main cave. The 2-mile loop trail leads "across to the lodge, along the cliff face and down to the cave" with "a lot of history here and some nice views," according to Shelly S.
Take the ferry crossing: Access Cave-in-Rock State Park from Kentucky via the Ohio River ferry. One visitor noted, "If you're coming from the Kentucky side first there is Amish country to visit. Check in Marion for what's available and where (fill your gas tank up!)" The ferry ride creates a memorable entrance experience.
Visit New Harmony: Just over an hour from Elizabethtown, this historic town near Harmonie State Park offers cultural attractions. As Jamie B. describes, "New Harmony is a great place to vacation with family. The state park is gorgeous. The small town had several antique shops and local owned restaurants."
What campers like
Riverside views: Waterfront cabin rentals at Birdsville Riverside RV Park provide direct access to the Ohio River. Charles W. describes it as having "beautiful site[s] on the Ohio River" with "magnificent sunsets." The riverside setting creates a peaceful backdrop for cabin stays.
Affordability: State park cabins typically offer lower rates than private resorts. At Cave-in-Rock State Park, Larry R. mentioned being "the only campers here in a very well kept campground" noting "$20 for a state park site with electricity is incredible."
Marked horse trails: Equestrian-friendly cabin accommodations at Hayes Canyon Campground cater to those bringing horses. One visitor described it as having "great trails and maps available" with "older stalls cabins available," making it practical for riders needing both human and equine lodging.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many cabin locations have poor connectivity. When visiting Cave-in-Rock, one camper advises to "write your directions down for this whole area, the cell phone coverage is spotty and it will keep frustration down."
Seasonal closures: Not all facilities operate year-round. Harmonie State Park has an "Olympic size pool open during summer-has water slide, diving boards, separate baby pool with shade awning, and concessions," but closes after Labor Day.
Supply limitations: Dixon Springs State Park has limited on-site provisions. One visitor noted, "Water available at dump station but not consumable" while another mentioned they "offer free firewood for campers, which was such a treat!"
Varied cabin quality: Maintenance standards differ dramatically between locations. A review for Bear Branch Campground described their cabin experience bluntly: "The cabin(single-wide trailer) looked as if it was placed in the 1980's and has never been touched. The floor in the cabin was soft(rotted)."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Select cabins near recreational areas for children. Olivia S. notes Harmonie State Park has "3 playgrounds throughout the campground" and "various events through the summer season with a big Halloween event in the fall."
Consider swimming options: Kentucky Lake KOA offers family-friendly amenities year-round. A visitor mentioned, "My kids also enjoyed the pool" and another noted the "clean laundry facility and heated restroom and showers."
Check for fishing opportunities: Many cabin locations allow fishing. At Birdsville Riverside RV Park, one visitor mentioned "watching the barges go up and down the river along with an occasional recreational boat or 2" and noted "a small dock on the property if you are interested in boating or fishing."
Plan for limited supplies: Chelsea D. at Dixon Springs State Park recommends being prepared: "We hiked the trail and it took us about 2 hours total. They were very well maintained" but also noted limited facilities with "bathrooms [that] were pit toilets, but they were immaculately cleaned!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Cabins offer an alternative to difficult RV parking. Nicole C. observed at Cave-in-Rock State Park: "Very spacious sites, and there was hardly anyone there, so it seemed like we had the campground to ourselves" - a stark contrast to the sloped terrain at other campgrounds.
Full hookup availability: Little Lusk Trail Lodge accommodates various needs. As dana W. notes, "Campsites are spacious and can accommodate very large rigs. High lines behind sites. Stalls can be reserved. Some sites are full hookup."
Access considerations: Many cabins require planning for larger vehicles. Marta S. warned about Dixon Springs: "Cars aren't allowed next to the campsite. We initially parked next to it and the superintendent asked us to move it to the parking lot. Makes it a hassle and is a bit of a bummer."
