Explore the Natural Wonders of Starved Rock State Park
Discover the natural beauty and outdoor adventures at Starved Rock State Park, Illinois' premier destination for hiking, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery.
Starved Rock State Park, located in Oglesby, Illinois, is a breathtaking natural oasis that offers visitors stunning landscapes, rich history, and a plethora of outdoor activities. Known for its majestic canyons, waterfalls, and scenic vistas, this state park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With over 13 miles of hiking trails, visitors can explore the diverse flora and fauna and experience the serene beauty of this iconic park. Whether you're looking to hike, picnic, or simply enjoy the tranquility of nature, Starved Rock State Park promises an unforgettable experience.
A brief summary to Starved Rock State Park
- Oglesby, Illinois, 61348, US
- +1815-667-4726
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes as some trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited within the park.
- Check the weather before your visit and dress in layers for changing conditions.
- Visit during the fall for spectacular foliage and cooler hiking temperatures.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, start by getting onto I-39 N from your location in Prairie State. Depending on your starting point, you may need to take local roads to reach I-39. Once on I-39 N, continue for about 15 miles until you reach Exit 54 for IL-71 W toward Oglesby. After exiting, turn left onto IL-71 W and follow it for approximately 3 miles. Then, turn left onto N 21st Rd and follow the signs to Starved Rock State Park. The park's entrance is located at 5800 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348. Parking is available on-site, and there may be a parking fee of around $8 for the day.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus to LaSalle, IL, from various locations in Prairie State. Once you arrive at the LaSalle bus station, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service, as there is no direct public transport to Starved Rock State Park from LaSalle. The taxi ride will be approximately 10 miles and could cost around $20-$25. Upon arrival at the park, enjoy the beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.
Discover more about Starved Rock State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Starved Rock Family Campground
7.6 km
Experience the natural beauty and adventure of Starved Rock Family Campground, a perfect getaway for families and outdoor enthusiasts in Illinois.
Starved Rock Country
11.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures of Starved Rock Country, a hidden gem in Illinois perfect for nature lovers and hikers.
Westclox Museum
11.8 km
Explore the fascinating history of clock-making at the Westclox Museum, where timekeeping comes alive through engaging exhibits and rich storytelling.
Wild Bill Hickok State Memorial
19.5 km
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Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial
21.6 km
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Indian Creek Massacre Historic Site
26.9 km
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Owen Lovejoy House
40.5 km
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Gebhard Brewery Building
45.4 km
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Robert Waugh House
50.4 km
Explore the Robert Waugh House, a historic gem in Sparland, Illinois, showcasing unique architecture and rich local history.
Edith Farnsworth House
51.4 km
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Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area
51.4 km
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Oughton Estate Windmill
51.6 km
Explore the Oughton Estate Windmill in Dwight, Illinois, a historical landmark that beautifully showcases the region's rich heritage and stunning architecture.
Strevell House
55.6 km
Explore the captivating history and architectural beauty of Strevell House, a must-visit historical landmark in Pontiac, Illinois.
The Kendall County Historical Society - Lyon Farm
59.3 km
Explore the rich history of Kendall County at The Kendall County Historical Society - Lyon Farm, a charming historical museum in Yorkville, Illinois.
Historic Route 66 Old Bridge
60.5 km
Explore the Historic Route 66 Old Bridge in Eppards Point Township, Illinois, where nostalgia meets stunning views of America's iconic highway.
Unmissable attractions to see
LaSalle Canyon
0.1 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty of LaSalle Canyon, a top hiking destination in Illinois offering stunning waterfalls and scenic trails.
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.
Owl Canyon Overlook
0.6 km
Experience the breathtaking vistas and serene trails at Owl Canyon Overlook, a must-visit hiking destination in Oglesby, Illinois.
Sandstone Overlook
0.6 km
Discover the enchanting Sandstone Overlook in Oglesby, Illinois, where stunning views and serene hiking trails await nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Starved Rock State Park Campground
1.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Starved Rock State Park Campground, a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Illinois.
Wildcat Canyon
1.1 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife of Wildcat Canyon, a premier hiking destination in Illinois offering breathtaking trails and natural beauty.
Hennepin Canyon
1.3 km
Discover the serene hiking trails and breathtaking vistas of Hennepin Canyon, a hidden gem in Oglesby, Illinois, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Beehive Overlook Beach
1.3 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
1.5 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
1.5 km
Discover the breathtaking views at Eagle Cliff Overlook in Oglesby, Illinois, a perfect escape for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Lover's Leap Overlook
1.7 km
Experience breathtaking views of the Illinois River at Lover's Leap Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in Oglesby, Illinois, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
French Canyon
1.9 km
Explore the enchanting landscapes of French Canyon in Oglesby, Illinois, where stunning rock formations and serene waters await your adventure.
Starved Rock
1.9 km
Explore Starved Rock, Illinois, a stunning mountain peak with scenic trails, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes perfect for every nature lover.
Illinois Waterway Visitors Center
1.9 km
Explore the Illinois Waterway Visitors Center, a blend of nature, history, and education along the scenic Illinois River. A perfect spot for birdwatching and learning.
Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center
2.1 km
Explore the natural beauty and rich history of Starved Rock State Park at the informative Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure in Illinois.
Essential places to dine
The Back Door Lounge
2.1 km
Discover The Back Door Lounge at Starved Rock Lodge: where comfort food meets stunning nature views in Oglesby.
Starved Rock Lodge Restaurant
2.1 km
Experience exquisite dining surrounded by nature's wonders at Starved Rock Lodge Restaurant in Illinois.
Main Dining Room at Starved Rock Lodge
2.1 km
Dine amidst nature's splendor at Starved Rock Lodge's Main Dining Room—where local flavors meet stunning views.
Captain's Cove Bar & Grill At Starved Rock Marina
2.2 km
Experience delightful dining at Captain's Cove Bar & Grill with stunning views at Starved Rock Marina – perfect for casual meals or special events.
Año Del Gallo
3.4 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.
Jack's Place Restaurant & Bar
3.4 km
Discover delicious breakfasts at Jack's Place Restaurant & Bar in North Utica – where culinary delights meet cozy charm.
Bear Island Outdoor Bar & Grill
3.6 km
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Lodi Tap House - Utica
4.6 km
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Canal Port
4.6 km
Discover Canal Port: A premier American dining experience blending delicious cuisine with vibrant entertainment in North Utica.
Joy and Ed’s Bar and Grill
4.6 km
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Skoog's Pub & Grill
4.6 km
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Mr. Salsa's, Inc.
7.4 km
Experience the vibrant tastes of Mexico at Mr. Salsa's in Oglesby – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Claudette's
7.5 km
Discover Claudette's: A delightful grill and sports bar in Oglesby offering delicious food and lively game day excitement.
Brennan's
7.7 km
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CortiLeno's
7.7 km
Discover the culinary delights at CortiLeno's Grill in Oglesby - where great flavors meet friendly service!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jack's Camp Store
3.8 km
Discover the ultimate camping and outdoor gear at Jack's Camp Store in Oglesby, Illinois, perfect for your next adventure.
Starved Rock River and Trail Supply
4.1 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
4.2 km
Explore the best of North Utica at Jamie's OutPost, where shopping meets dining in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Bakery & Cafe Nonies
4.3 km
Experience delightful baked goods and hearty breakfasts at Bakery & Cafe Nonies, a cozy spot in North Utica, Illinois.
The Rock and Soul
4.5 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
4.6 km
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Bruce & Ollie's Ice Cream, Specialty Coffee & Deli
4.6 km
Experience the ultimate treat at Bruce & Ollie's Ice Cream, Specialty Coffee & Deli in North Utica, IL, where flavors and hospitality blend seamlessly.
Love's Travel Stop
7.2 km
Experience the convenience and comfort of Love's Travel Stop, your essential travel companion on the road through North Utica, Illinois.
Green Thumb Industries
10.0 km
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Nina's Market
10.4 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Nina's Market, where grocery shopping meets delightful dining in La Salle, Illinois.
Guitar Junkyard & String Instrument Museum
10.5 km
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Scout Outdoor Apparel
10.6 km
Discover high-quality outdoor apparel and gear at Scout Outdoor Apparel in La Salle, Illinois, your go-to store for adventure-ready clothing.
That Guy's Secret
10.6 km
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Country Cottage, Inc
10.8 km
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E & B Tobacco & Liquor
10.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
J.H. Higby's
3.6 km
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Red's City Limits/ Clarks Run Campground
5.2 km
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Kasap's Tavern
7.1 km
Discover the vibrant local culture and welcoming atmosphere at Kasap's Tavern, a must-visit bar in Oglesby, Illinois.
Laura's East End Tap
7.2 km
Discover the warm and inviting atmosphere of Laura's East End Tap, a local bar in Oglesby, Illinois, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Bulldogs Bar
7.6 km
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Mercer's Rooftop
7.7 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
7.9 km
Discover the charm of Lizzie's Lounge in Oglesby, Illinois - a cozy lounge with friendly service and delightful drinks.
Archway Tap
8.2 km
Unwind at Archway Tap, a cozy Oglesby bar offering a wide selection of drinks and a vibrant local atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Morts
10.0 km
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Greg’s Dew Drop Inn LLC
10.0 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
10.3 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
10.4 km
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The Camden Bar and Lounge
10.6 km
Experience the charm of The Camden Bar and Lounge, where great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await in La Salle, Illinois.
Buzzy's
10.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Buzzy's, La Salle's favorite bar for affordable drinks and unforgettable nightlife.
the Dugout tavern
10.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Dugout Tavern, La Salle's unique bar and bait shop perfect for relaxation and fishing enthusiasts.
