Just across the river from Paducah is southern Illinois Shawnee Forest area. There are many places to explore for a day trip. See on google maps. Garden of the Gods (beautiful)(12 sites, no hookups, water pump. Mermet swamp or lake- birding, Fort Massac SP, Cache River State Natural area, Cave in Rock SP (electric & dump station) above the river & the cave, nearby is the free car ferry to cross in to KY and you could take the river road back to Paducah. There is an Amish town on the KY side but I don't know the name. I'm sure somebody from this area could add many more places to explore.Have a great trip!
Marcia
