Who it's for
All ages
Starved Rock State Park
Published October 2026. Editorial oversight by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards
Image credits
- Photo by 19fanwar via Wikimedia Commons, CC-BY-SA-4.0
- Photo by Chris Light (talk) via Wikidata, CC-BY-SA-3.0
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About Starved Rock State Park
Hike sandstone canyons and seasonal waterfalls carved by ancient glacial meltwater.
Carved by glacial meltwater, Starved Rock State Park is an Illinois nature preserve of canyons, waterfalls, and sandstone bluffs made for getting outdoors.
What you'll see and do - Hike more than 13 miles of trails, from accessible routes to more challenging paths leading to the canyons and waterfalls - Spot a diverse ecosystem of plant and animal life through the seasons - Picnic, fish, and camp across the park - Visit in colder months for canyon ice formations and bald eagle sightings, and stop by the Visitor Center for exhibits on the park's geology and history
Attraction Details
Facilities
- Parking
- Restrooms
- Visitor Center
- Camping
- Picnicking
- Concessions
- Lodge
- Boat ramp
Events at Starved Rock State Park
Starved Rock Trail Improvement Project
March 2026 - June 2026
Some trails, including access to French Canyon, will be closed for construction.
Plan Your Visit
Family-tested advice for a smoother day at Starved Rock State Park.
Getting there
Starved Rock State Park is at 2678 E 875th Rd, Oglesby, IL 61348. Check the operator's site for parking and transit options.
Pro tip
Pack snacks, refillable water bottles and a portable charger to keep the day running smoothly.
Directions
Starved Rock State Park
2678 E 875th Rd, Oglesby, IL 61348
This attraction has been claimed and verified.
Last updated 10/17/2026
Starved Rock State Park Reviews
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Frequently asked questions
Is Starved Rock State Park worth visiting?
Starved Rock State Park is a prime destination for hiking and enjoying nature, known for its stunning canyons, waterfalls, and bluffs along the Illinois River. It offers over 13 miles of hiking trails, picnicking, fishing, and camping.What are the best things to see and do at Starved Rock State Park?
At Starved Rock State Park, you can explore numerous canyons, seasonal waterfalls, and sandstone bluffs, all carved by glacial meltwater. The park offers over 13 miles of hiking trails, and visitors can also enjoy picnicking, fishing, and camping.What are the opening hours at Starved Rock State Park?
Starved Rock Park Trails are open from 7:00 a.m. to sunset daily. The Starved Rock Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., but is closed on Federal holidays from November through March. For specific hours, please check the official site.Is Starved Rock State Park suitable for young children, and what ages is it best for?
Starved Rock State Park is suitable for all ages, offering a diverse ecosystem with various outdoor activities that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
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