Starved Rock State Park, Illinois Ozarks Travel Guide

Starved Rock State Park, nestled along the Illinois River in La Salle County, is a captivating natural escape. Established in 1911 as Illinois' second state park, it has a rich history and diverse geological features. The park's name originates from a Native American legend. In the 1760s, Chief Pontiac of the Ottawa tribe was killed by an Illinois Peoria brave, leading to battles where a group of Illinois sought refuge on a 125-foot sandstone butte. They were besieged by the Potawatomi, allies of the Ottawa, and eventually died of starvation, giving the rock its name.The park boasts 18 canyons with striking vertical walls of moss-laden St. Peter Sandstone, carved by glacial meltwater over 14,000 years ago. These canyons feature seasonal waterfalls that are most active in the spring and after heavy rains. Visitors can explore over 13 miles of well-maintained hiking trails that wind through the canyons and along the Illinois River. The trails vary in difficulty, offering options for all skill levels.Starved Rock State Park also has a rich human history. The area has been inhabited for over 10,000 years, with the Hopewellian, Woodland, and Mississippian Native American cultures flourishing here. In 1673, French explorers Louis Jolliet and Father Jacques Marquette traveled through the area, and Marquette later established Illinois' first Christian mission at the Kaskaskia village. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built the Starved Rock Lodge and many of the park's trails. The Lodge and Cabins were listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1985.Today, Starved Rock State Park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. Visitors can enjoy the park's natural beauty, explore its historical sites, and participate in various recreational activities. The Starved Rock Lodge offers lodging, dining, and event spaces. The park's visitor center provides information, exhibits, and a movie theater.