To the west lies the vast expanse of Shawnee National Forest. At its edge is the Old Slave House, a stop on the little-known Reverse Underground Railroad, where captured fugitive slaves and even freed blacks were held before being returned to the South. How the West Was Won were shot here. The 204-acre park, bordering the river for nearly a mile, has two established hiking trails of moderate difficulty. Duplex guest houses on bluffs overlooking the river make a romantic getaway.
Rooms are comfortable and include kitchenettes.
Private decks provide a perfect spot to sit with morning coffee as the sun burns off fog shrouding the river and unseen boats sound their horns. There is a large outdoor pool and a porch from which to watch the river go by. Don is a raconteur brimming with local lore and legend. A new museum dedicated to the mineral and its mining is located at Rosiclare. The Phillips also may direct you to the floating diner moored at the foot of the hill which offers catfish dinners, homemade lemonade and wonderful sunsets over the river.