Starved Rock State Park, Driftless Area Travel Guide

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Explore stunning canyons, waterfalls, and hiking trails at Starved Rock State Park, a historic and scenic natural wonder in Illinois.

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Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park, located in Oglesby, Illinois, is a stunning natural escape featuring 18 canyons, seasonal waterfalls, and over 13 miles of hiking trails. Named after a Native American legend, the park offers a rich blend of history and outdoor adventure.

A brief summary to Starved Rock State Park

Oglesby, Illinois, 61348, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Starved Rock State Park.

Visit during the weekdays or off-season to avoid crowds, especially during the peak months of March through November.
Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before your visit, as rain can make trails muddy or cause temporary closures.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, as some trails involve stairs and uneven terrain.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited concessions available on the trails.
Take a guided tour to learn about the park's history, geology, and ecology from knowledgeable guides.

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Explore Starved Rock State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Starved Rock State Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Starved Rock State Park is located near Oglesby, Illinois. From Interstate 80, take the IL-178 South exit. Follow the signs to the park entrance. Be prepared for toll roads requiring an I-PASS, E-ZPass, or online payment by license plate. Parking is available in several lots throughout the park, including near the Visitor Center and trailheads. Parking is free. During peak season, parking lots may fill up, especially on weekends, so arrive early.
Public Transport

While there are limited public transportation options directly to Starved Rock State Park, you can take an Amtrak train to Mendota, IL, which is about an hour away from the park. From there, you would need to take a taxi or rideshare service to reach the park. The train fare from Chicago to Mendota ranges from $30 to $70. A taxi or rideshare from Mendota to Starved Rock would cost approximately $50 to $80. Alternatively, Burlington Trailways operates a bus from Chicago to La Salle/Peru, which is approximately 20 minutes from Starved Rock. Tickets cost $30-$65. From there, you would need to take a taxi or rideshare service to reach the park.
Walking

Once inside Starved Rock State Park, walking is the primary way to access the various trails and attractions. From the Visitor Center, follow the paved paths to reach the main trailheads, including those for Starved Rock, French Canyon, and the River Trail. Trail maps are available at the Visitor Center to help you navigate the park. Be prepared for stairs and uneven terrain on some of the canyon trails.

Discover more about Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park, nestled along the Illinois River in LaSalle County, is a captivating destination renowned for its natural beauty and historical significance. The park's name originates from a Native American legend, where a group of Illiniwek sought refuge on a sandstone butte, now known as Starved Rock, and were besieged until they perished.Established in 1911 as Illinois' second state park, Starved Rock boasts 18 canyons formed by glacial meltwater over 14,000 years ago. These canyons feature striking vertical walls of moss-covered St. Peter Sandstone, creating a unique landscape in the Midwest. Visitors can explore over 13 miles of well-marked hiking trails that wind through the canyons, leading to seasonal waterfalls and breathtaking overlooks. Popular trails include the St. Louis Canyon Trail, LaSalle Canyon Trail, and the River Trail.The park's history extends beyond the legend of Starved Rock. The area was once inhabited by various Native American cultures, including the Hopewellian, Woodland, and Mississippian peoples. In the late 17th century, French explorers Louis Jolliet and Father Jacques Marquette traveled through the region, with Marquette establishing a mission at the nearby Grand Village of the Kaskaskia. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) developed the park's infrastructure in the 1930s, building the lodge and trail systems that visitors enjoy today.Today, Starved Rock State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking is a favorite activity, with trails ranging from easy riverside walks to more challenging routes with stairs and elevation changes. The park also offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife watching, particularly birdwatching, with bald eagles being a common sight in winter. Visitors can also take scenic trolley rides or boat cruises to explore the park's beauty from different perspectives. The Starved Rock Lodge provides accommodations, dining, and guided tours, enhancing the visitor experience.