Great Spot on the Mighty Mississippi
I took my children here for years when they were little. As a single mom of 5 it was very manageable. I could see them throughout the entire park. There's fishing, exploring, a playground, and when you see a paddleboat you have time to drive to town before it hits loch & damn #12. It's a beautiful spot right on the river with views galore. Go to the other end of town and up the big hill for some nature. There's a butterfly 🦋 garden, hiking trails, a lookout where all 4 states are visible. There are also Indian mounds, which is apparently a secret now. The town is quaint. It has changed very little in 25 years. Cute little shops, inexpensive food. If you want to cool off there is a nice place as you come into the park (another campground) that has a nice bar and great food. If you are into Harleys, it's a 20ish mile drive south across the bridge to Savannah Illinois to "Poopies" Bar. It's a riot and the food is great with huge portions! You will see Frank Press' (American Pickers) place as well, but it truly is not worth the stop. If you travel 15ish minutes North you can see the crystal caverns, my kids loved it. If you have not been in a cave, I recommend it, but I've been in mammoth cave so it's not impressive to me. There's a lot to do!