Starved Rock State Park, Northeastern Illinois Travel Guide

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

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Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park, located in Oglesby, Illinois, is a stunning natural area known for its sandstone canyons, seasonal waterfalls, and over 13 miles of hiking trails. The park's rich history and beautiful scenery make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

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 for a quieter experience, as weekends, especially in the summer and fall, can get crowded.
Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before your visit, as rain can make trails muddy or lead to temporary closures.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, especially for navigating stairs and canyon floors.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as well as layered clothing to adjust to changing temperatures.
Groups of 20 or more people are required to complete an activity permit and submit it to the park office at least 2 weeks prior to their visit.

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Getting There

Driving

Starved Rock State Park is located near Oglesby, Illinois. From Interstate 80, exit onto IL-178 South. Follow the signs to the park entrance, which leads to the Visitor Center and Lodge area. Be prepared for toll roads requiring an I-PASS, E-ZPass, or online payment. Parking is available in several lots throughout the park. During peak times, parking lots may fill up, so arriving early is recommended. Parking is free.
Public Transport

While there are limited public transportation options directly to Starved Rock State Park, the closest option is to take an Amtrak train to Mendota, IL. From there, a taxi or ride-sharing service can be used to reach the park, which is approximately a 1-hour drive. Train tickets from Chicago to Mendota range from $30 to $60. A taxi or ride-share from Mendota to Starved Rock State Park will cost approximately $50 - $90. Another option is to take a Burlington Trailways bus from Chicago to La Salle/Peru, IL, which costs $30-$60. From there you would need to take a taxi or ride-sharing service to the park.

Discover more about Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park, nestled along the Illinois River in LaSalle County, is one of Illinois' most captivating destinations. Established in 1911 as the state's second state park, it spans 3,205 acres, offering a diverse landscape shaped by glacial meltwater over 14,000 years ago. The park's 18 canyons feature striking vertical walls of moss-laden St. Peter Sandstone, creating a unique and picturesque environment.The park derives its name from a Native American legend. In 1769, Chief Pontiac of the Ottawa tribe was reportedly killed by a Peoria brave. The legend states that during the ensuing battles, a group of Illinois Native Americans, seeking refuge from the Potawatomi, were besieged atop a 125-foot sandstone butte, now known as Starved Rock. The Illinois people eventually perished from starvation, giving the rock its haunting name.Visitors can explore over 13 miles of well-marked hiking trails that wind through the park's diverse terrain. These trails offer access to stunning seasonal waterfalls, sandstone overhangs, and breathtaking viewpoints. The park's lush vegetation supports abundant wildlife, including white-tailed deer and various bird species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.Starved Rock State Park also features the Starved Rock Lodge, built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The lodge offers comfortable lodging, cabin rooms, and fine dining, providing a perfect base for exploring the park.The park's history stretches back over 10,000 years, with the Hopewellian, Woodland, and Mississippian Native American cultures flourishing in the region. In 1673, French explorers Louis Jolliet and Father Jacques Marquette traveled through the area, with Marquette establishing Illinois' first Christian mission at the nearby Kaskaskia village.