Discover the Wonders of Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center
Explore the beauty of nature at the Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center, your gateway to Illinois' outdoor adventures and rich cultural heritage.
The Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center is a must-visit for any tourist exploring the breathtaking natural beauty of Illinois. Nestled in the heart of Starved Rock State Park, this center serves as the gateway to diverse outdoor adventures, offering valuable information, engaging exhibits, and stunning views.
A brief summary to Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center
- 2678 East 873 Road, Oglesby, Illinois, 61348, US
- +1815-667-4726
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Check the Visitor Center's schedule for guided tours and educational programs.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as many trails can be steep and uneven.
- Bring water and snacks to stay energized during your explorations.
- Don't forget your camera! The views and wildlife opportunities are plentiful.
Getting There
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Driving
If you are driving within Starved Rock State Park, head towards the south end of the park. Follow the main road, which is the Starved Rock Road, leading you through the park’s scenic views. Keep an eye out for directional signs toward the Visitor Center. The Visitor Center is located at 2678 East 873 Road, Oglesby, IL 61348. As you approach, look for the parking lot on your right. There is no entry fee for the Visitor Center itself, but parking may require a state park vehicle sticker, which costs $10 for Illinois residents and $20 for non-residents.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, you can take the Illinois Valley Community College (IVCC) shuttle service, which operates routes to various points in the area including Oglesby. From the IVCC stop, you will need to walk approximately 2 miles to reach the Visitor Center. Ensure to check the shuttle schedule in advance as it may not run frequently. The Visitor Center is located at 2678 East 873 Road. Be prepared to walk along the road, and make sure to stay visible to traffic. There may be a nominal fee for the shuttle service, typically around $2 per ride.
Discover more about Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Starved Rock Family Campground
5.9 km
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Westclox Museum
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Starved Rock Country
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Wild Bill Hickok State Memorial
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Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial
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Indian Creek Massacre Historic Site
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Owen Lovejoy House
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Gebhard Brewery Building
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Robert Waugh House
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Edith Farnsworth House
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Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area
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Oughton Estate Windmill
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Strevell House
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Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park
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The Kendall County Historical Society - Lyon Farm
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Unmissable attractions to see
Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center
0.2 km
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Starved Rock
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Saint Louis Canyon Trailhead
0.3 km
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French Canyon
0.4 km
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Lover's Leap Overlook
0.4 km
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Pontiac Canyon
0.6 km
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Eagle Cliff Overlook
0.6 km
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Plum Island Eagle Sanctuary
0.7 km
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Illinois Waterway Visitors Center
0.7 km
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Beehive Overlook Beach
0.8 km
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Wildcat Canyon
1.0 km
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St Louis Canyon Falls
1.1 km
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Sandstone Overlook
1.5 km
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Lonetree Canyon
1.6 km
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Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock
1.6 km
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Essential places to dine
The Back Door Lounge
0.1 km
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Starved Rock Lodge Restaurant
0.1 km
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Main Dining Room at Starved Rock Lodge
0.2 km
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Jack's Place Restaurant & Bar
1.6 km
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Bear Island Outdoor Bar & Grill
1.7 km
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Año Del Gallo
1.9 km
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Lodi Tap House - Utica
2.6 km
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Canal Port
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Joy and Ed’s Bar and Grill
2.7 km
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Skoog's Pub & Grill
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Captain's Cove Bar & Grill At Starved Rock Marina
4.0 km
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Mr. Salsa's, Inc.
6.0 km
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Claudette's
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Brennan's
6.2 km
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CortiLeno's
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Starved Rock River and Trail Supply
2.1 km
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Jamie's OutPost
2.3 km
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Bakery & Cafe Nonies
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The Rock and Soul
2.5 km
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The Bickerman Building
2.7 km
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Bruce & Ollie's Ice Cream, Specialty Coffee & Deli
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Jack's Camp Store
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Love's Travel Stop
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Guitar Junkyard & String Instrument Museum
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Nina's Market
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Green Thumb Industries
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Scout Outdoor Apparel
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That Guy's Secret
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Country Cottage, Inc
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E & B Tobacco & Liquor
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
J.H. Higby's
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Kasap's Tavern
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Laura's East End Tap
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Bulldogs Bar
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Mercer's Rooftop
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Lizzie's Lounge
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Archway Tap
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Morts
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Greg’s Dew Drop Inn LLC
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Doc's Pub
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Speakeasy on 1st
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The Camden Bar and Lounge
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Buzzy's
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the Dugout tavern
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