Starved Rock State Park in LaSalle County, Illinois, is a premier destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Renowned for its dramatic sandstone canyons, seasonal waterfalls, and panoramic views of the Illinois River, the park offers a diverse array of trails and natural features.

Trail Details & Highlights

The park boasts over 13 miles of well-marked trails that wind through 18 canyons, offering hikers a range of experiences from easy walks to more challenging treks.

• Wildcat Canyon: The park's deepest canyon, featuring a stunning waterfall.

• French Canyon: Known for its narrow passageways and picturesque waterfall.

• St. Louis Canyon: Offers a scenic waterfall, especially captivating during winter when it freezes into a natural ice sculpture.

• LaSalle Canyon: Features a unique waterfall that flows over a curved rock ledge.

• Lover’s Leap Overlook: Provides panoramic views of the Illinois River and the surrounding landscape.

Trail maps are available at the Visitor Center, and trails are marked with colored posts corresponding to the maps, aiding in navigation.

Flora & Fauna

Starved Rock's diverse ecosystems support a rich variety of plant and animal life:

• Flora: The park's forests are a mix of coniferous and deciduous trees, including white pine, Canada yew, red and white cedar, oaks, hickories, walnuts, and ashes. In spring, over 40 species of wildflowers bloom, such as skunk cabbage and lady's slipper orchids.

• Fauna: Wildlife includes white-tailed deer, raccoons, beavers, red foxes, eastern chipmunks, and various bird species. The Illinois River attracts bald eagles, especially during winter months.

Camping & Lodging

• Starved Rock Campground: Features 133 Class-A Premium campsites with electric hookups (30 or 50 amp), showers, and flush toilets. The campground is open from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

• Starved Rock Lodge: Offers 90 accommodations, including historic lodge rooms and charming log cabins nestled among tall pines and oaks.

• Nearby Accommodations: Options include the Grand Bear Resort, Quality Inn Ottawa, and Super 8 by Wyndham Peru, providing a range of amenities and price points.

Tips for Hikers

• Trail Conditions: Trails can be muddy or icy depending on the season; appropriate footwear is recommended.

• Waterfalls: Best viewed in spring after snowmelt or following heavy rains.

• Wildlife Viewing: Early morning or dusk are optimal times for observing wildlife.

• Safety: Stay on marked trails and be cautious near canyon edges and waterfalls.

• Visitor Center: Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., offering maps, exhibits, and information. 

Whether you're seeking a leisurely walk-through lush forests or an adventurous hike to a secluded waterfall, Starved Rock State Park offers a memorable experience for all nature lovers.

Additional Resources:

• Starved Rock Lodge
• Illinois DNR - Starved Rock State Park
• Starved Rock Map