Wildcat Canyon: A Starved Rock Jewel
Discover the beauty of Wildcat Canyon at Starved Rock State Park: scenic trails, stunning waterfalls, and natural splendor.
Wildcat Canyon in Starved Rock State Park is a picturesque natural wonder carved from sandstone, featuring seasonal waterfalls and lush greenery. It's an easily accessible and popular hiking destination for nature lovers of all skill levels.
A brief summary to Wildcat Canyon
- River Trail, Oglesby, Illinois, 61348, US
- +1815-667-4211
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the spring or after heavy rainfall to witness the waterfall at its fullest.
- Wear appropriate footwear, as the trails can be muddy, especially near the waterfall.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike beyond Wildcat Canyon to other areas of the park.
- Be aware of poison ivy along the trails and stick to marked paths.
Getting There
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Driving
From the Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center, follow the main road through the park. Parking is available in the main lots, but they can fill up quickly during peak season. From the parking lot, follow the marked trail towards Wildcat Canyon. Parking is free at all Illinois State Parks.
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Walking
From the Starved Rock Lodge, access the main trail system via the metal staircase behind the east portion of the Lodge. Follow the signs towards Wildcat Canyon, enjoying the scenic views along the way. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and should take around 30-40 minutes. Remember to stay on the marked trails and be mindful of other hikers.
Discover more about Wildcat Canyon
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Starved Rock Family Campground
6.6 km
A family-owned campground near Starved Rock State Park, offering a peaceful retreat with modern amenities and a welcoming community.
Westclox Museum
10.8 km
Explore the history of timekeeping at the Westclox Museum, located in the original factory in Peru, Illinois. A fascinating look at an iconic American company.
Starved Rock Country
12.3 km
Explore stunning canyons, waterfalls, and historic sites in Illinois' Starved Rock Country, a Midwest gem.
Wild Bill Hickok State Memorial
18.6 km
Explore the humble Illinois origins of Wild Bill Hickok, legendary lawman and icon of the American Wild West, at his birthplace memorial in Troy Grove.
Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial
22.6 km
Honor the fallen at the Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial in Marseilles, IL: a place for reflection, remembrance, and respect.
Indian Creek Massacre Historic Site
26.9 km
Reflect on a pivotal event in Illinois' history at the Indian Creek Massacre Historic Site, a place of remembrance and contemplation.
Owen Lovejoy House
39.4 km
Explore the Owen Lovejoy House in Princeton, IL—a historical museum dedicated to the life of abolitionist Owen Lovejoy and the fight for freedom.
Gebhard Brewery Building
46.3 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of the Gebhard Brewery Building in Morris, Illinois, a must-visit landmark for history lovers.
Robert Waugh House
49.9 km
Explore the Robert Waugh House, a historic gem in Sparland, Illinois, showcasing unique architecture and rich local history.
Edith Farnsworth House
51.8 km
Experience architectural history at the iconic Edith Farnsworth House, a stunning glass and steel masterpiece in harmony with nature.
Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area
51.8 km
Discover natural beauty and outdoor adventures at Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area in Yorkville, Illinois. A perfect escape for all seasons.
Oughton Estate Windmill
52.8 km
Visit the historic Oughton Estate Windmill in Dwight, IL: a symbol of innovation and a landmark on the National Register of Historic Places.
Strevell House
56.5 km
Visit the Strevell House in Pontiac, IL: A beautifully restored 1850s Carpenter Gothic home where Abraham Lincoln once stayed. Open for tours!
Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park
59.7 km
Explore Illinois' historic Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park: a scenic trail for hiking, biking, boating, and outdoor adventures.
The Kendall County Historical Society - Lyon Farm
59.9 km
Discover Kendall County's past at Lyon Farm: a living history museum with historic buildings and engaging events.
Unmissable attractions to see
Beehive Overlook Beach
0.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Beehive Overlook Beach, a perfect hiking and picnic spot along the scenic River Trail in Oglesby, Illinois.
Pontiac Canyon
0.4 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas and serene trails of Pontiac Canyon in Oglesby, Illinois, a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Eagle Cliff Overlook
0.4 km
Discover the breathtaking views at Eagle Cliff Overlook in Oglesby, Illinois, a perfect escape for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Sandstone Overlook
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting Sandstone Overlook in Oglesby, Illinois, where stunning views and serene hiking trails await nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Lonetree Canyon
0.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Lonetree Canyon in Oglesby, IL, a serene hiking area perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Lover's Leap Overlook
0.6 km
Experience the stunning views of the Illinois River at Lover's Leap Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in Oglesby, Illinois.
French Canyon
0.7 km
Explore the enchanting landscapes of French Canyon in Oglesby, Illinois, where stunning rock formations and serene waters await your adventure.
Starved Rock
0.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Starved Rock in Deer Park Township, Illinois, where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures await at every turn.
Illinois Waterway Visitors Center
0.9 km
Explore the Illinois Waterway Visitors Center for breathtaking views, fascinating exhibits, and a chance to connect with nature along the Illinois River.
Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center
1.0 km
Explore the beauty of nature at the Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center, your gateway to Illinois' outdoor adventures and rich cultural heritage.
Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center
1.0 km
Discover the beauty and history of Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center, nestled in the heart of Illinois' breathtaking landscapes.
Saint Louis Canyon Trailhead
1.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Saint Louis Canyon Trailhead in Oglesby, IL, where adventure and nature seamlessly intertwine.
Starved Rock State Park
1.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife at Starved Rock State Park, a top destination in Illinois for outdoor adventures and stunning landscapes.
LaSalle Canyon
1.2 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and exhilarating hiking trails at LaSalle Canyon, an unforgettable natural wonder in Illinois.
Starved Rock State Park Campground
1.4 km
Experience the beauty of nature at Starved Rock State Park Campground, a premier destination for camping, hiking, and outdoor adventures in Illinois.
Essential places to dine
The Back Door Lounge
0.9 km
Discover The Back Door Lounge at Starved Rock Lodge: where comfort food meets stunning nature views in Oglesby.
Starved Rock Lodge Restaurant
0.9 km
Experience exquisite dining surrounded by nature's wonders at Starved Rock Lodge Restaurant in Illinois.
Main Dining Room at Starved Rock Lodge
1.0 km
Dine amidst nature's splendor at Starved Rock Lodge's Main Dining Room—where local flavors meet stunning views.
Jack's Place Restaurant & Bar
2.4 km
Discover delicious breakfasts at Jack's Place Restaurant & Bar in North Utica – where culinary delights meet cozy charm.
Año Del Gallo
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Año Del Gallo in Oglesby, where delicious food meets an extensive selection of craft beers in a lively setting.
Bear Island Outdoor Bar & Grill
2.5 km
Discover Bear Island Outdoor Bar & Grill: Where delicious grilled cuisine meets stunning outdoor ambiance in North Utica.
Captain's Cove Bar & Grill At Starved Rock Marina
3.1 km
Experience delightful dining at Captain's Cove Bar & Grill with stunning views at Starved Rock Marina – perfect for casual meals or special events.
Lodi Tap House - Utica
3.5 km
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Canal Port
3.5 km
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Joy and Ed’s Bar and Grill
3.5 km
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Skoog's Pub & Grill
3.5 km
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Mr. Salsa's, Inc.
6.6 km
Experience the vibrant tastes of Mexico at Mr. Salsa's in Oglesby – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Claudette's
6.6 km
Discover Claudette's: A delightful grill and sports bar in Oglesby offering delicious food and lively game day excitement.
Brennan's
6.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Brennan's gastropub in Oglesby - where gourmet dining meets vibrant socializing.
CortiLeno's
6.9 km
Discover the culinary delights at CortiLeno's Grill in Oglesby - where great flavors meet friendly service!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Starved Rock River and Trail Supply
3.0 km
Discover outdoor adventures at Starved Rock River and Trail Supply, your one-stop shop for fishing gear and local expertise near Starved Rock State Park.
Jamie's OutPost
3.2 km
Explore the best of North Utica at Jamie's OutPost, where shopping meets dining in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Bakery & Cafe Nonies
3.2 km
Experience delightful baked goods and hearty breakfasts at Bakery & Cafe Nonies, a cozy spot in North Utica, Illinois.
Jack's Camp Store
3.3 km
Discover the ultimate camping and outdoor gear at Jack's Camp Store in Oglesby, Illinois, perfect for your next adventure.
The Rock and Soul
3.4 km
Discover nature's artistry at The Rock and Soul, a captivating rock shop in North Utica, Illinois, filled with stunning minerals and fossils.
The Bickerman Building
3.5 km
Discover The Bickerman Building in North Utica: A charming destination for coffee, breakfast, and delightful treats amidst a friendly atmosphere.
Bruce & Ollie's Ice Cream, Specialty Coffee & Deli
3.5 km
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Love's Travel Stop
6.3 km
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Green Thumb Industries
9.1 km
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Nina's Market
9.3 km
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Guitar Junkyard & String Instrument Museum
9.3 km
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Scout Outdoor Apparel
9.5 km
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That Guy's Secret
9.5 km
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Country Cottage, Inc
9.7 km
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E & B Tobacco & Liquor
9.7 km
Discover E & B Tobacco & Liquor in La Salle, Illinois - where quality tobacco meets a fine selection of spirits in a relaxed atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
J.H. Higby's
2.5 km
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Red's City Limits/ Clarks Run Campground
4.2 km
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Kasap's Tavern
6.3 km
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Laura's East End Tap
6.4 km
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Bulldogs Bar
6.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bulldogs Bar in Oglesby, where great drinks, live music, and a lively atmosphere await you.
Mercer's Rooftop
6.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking views at Mercer's Rooftop in Oglesby, Illinois—a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoyment.
Lizzie's Lounge
7.1 km
Discover the charm of Lizzie's Lounge in Oglesby, Illinois - a cozy lounge with friendly service and delightful drinks.
Archway Tap
7.3 km
Unwind at Archway Tap, a cozy Oglesby bar offering a wide selection of drinks and a vibrant local atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Morts
8.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of La Salle at Morts, where local brews and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Greg’s Dew Drop Inn LLC
8.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks at Greg’s Dew Drop Inn LLC in La Salle, Illinois, a local favorite for relaxation and fun.
Doc's Pub
9.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at Doc's Pub in La Salle, Illinois, where locals and travelers come together for great drinks and live music.
Speakeasy on 1st
9.3 km
Discover the Prohibition-era charm at Speakeasy on 1st, a cocktail bar and lounge in La Salle, Illinois, renowned for its craft cocktails and live music.
The Camden Bar and Lounge
9.5 km
Experience the charm of The Camden Bar and Lounge, where great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await in La Salle, Illinois.
Buzzy's
9.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Buzzy's, La Salle's favorite bar for affordable drinks and unforgettable nightlife.
the Dugout tavern
9.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Dugout Tavern, La Salle's unique bar and bait shop perfect for relaxation and fishing enthusiasts.
