Starved Rock State Park: A Natural Oasis in Illinois
Explore stunning canyons, waterfalls, and hiking trails at Starved Rock State Park, a historic and scenic natural treasure in Illinois.
Starved Rock State Park, nestled along the Illinois River in LaSalle County, is a captivating natural escape offering a blend of history and stunning landscapes. Established in 1911 as Illinois' second state park, it spans over 2,630 acres and features 18 canyons sculpted by glacial meltwater over 14,000 years ago. These canyons boast vertical walls of moss-laden St. Peter Sandstone, creating a unique and picturesque environment. The park's name is derived from a Native American legend. In the 1760s, Chief Pontiac of the Ottawa tribe was allegedly murdered by a member of the Illinois Confederation. As the story goes, the Ottawa and their allies, the Potawatomi, sought revenge, driving a group of Illiniwek to seek refuge atop a 125-foot sandstone butte. The attackers besieged the rock until the Illiniwek starved to death, thus giving the landmark its haunting name. Today, Starved Rock State Park offers over 13 miles of well-marked hiking trails that wind through forests, canyons, and along the river. Visitors can explore various trails ranging from easy riverside walks to more challenging routes with stairs and elevation changes. Popular spots include French Canyon, St. Louis Canyon, and Wildcat Canyon, each featuring seasonal waterfalls and unique rock formations. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer, bald eagles (especially in winter), and various songbirds. The Starved Rock Lodge, built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, provides lodging and dining options within the park. The Visitor Center offers information, maps, and a movie theater showcasing the park's history and natural features. Picnic areas are available for day visitors, and camping is also an option. However, some areas and trails may be closed due to maintenance or safety concerns, so it's best to check the park's website or visitor center for current conditions.
Local tips
- Visit during the weekdays or off-season to avoid large crowds, especially during the summer and fall foliage season.
- 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, as some trails involve stairs and uneven terrain.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking for an extended period.
- Arrive early to secure parking, particularly on weekends and holidays.
A brief summary to Starved Rock
- Deer Park Township, Illinois, US
Getting There
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Driving
Starved Rock State Park is located near Utica, Illinois. From Chicago, take I-80 West to I-39 South. Exit I-39 at Oglesby (Exit 54). Follow IL-71 East to the park entrance. Be prepared for toll roads requiring an I-PASS, E-ZPass, or online payment. Parking is free within the park, but it's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot in the main visitor center lot or overflow lots. Limited parking is also available at the Starved Rock Lodge.
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Public Transport
While there are limited public transportation options directly to Starved Rock State Park, the best option from Chicago is to take an Amtrak train to Mendota, IL. From there, a taxi or rideshare service can be used to complete the journey to the park, which is approximately a 1-hour drive. Train tickets range from $30-60. A taxi or rideshare from Mendota to Starved Rock will cost approximately $50-$90. Burlington Trailways also operates a bus from Chicago to La Salle/Peru once daily for $30-$60. From there you would also need to take a taxi or rideshare to the park.
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Walking
Once inside Starved Rock State Park, walking is the primary way to access the various trails and scenic viewpoints. The Visitor Center serves as a central starting point, with well-marked trails leading to popular destinations like French Canyon, St. Louis Canyon and Starved Rock itself. Trail maps are available at the Visitor Center to help you navigate. Note that some trails involve stairs and may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
