State Park Core Editors Desk 
Starved Rock State Park, located in Oglesby, Illinois, is a renowned destination for ice climbing enthusiasts. The park’s unique geological features, including towering sandstone cliffs and frozen waterfalls, create a breathtaking winter landscape that attracts climbers from across the Midwest. Whether you’re an experienced ice climber or a newcomer to the sport, Starved Rock offers … Read more
Starved Rock State Park Beach is a stunning natural wonder located in Utica, Illinois, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable outdoor experience. Nestled within the larger Starved Rock State Park, this beach is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors. Discover the … Read more
Starved Rock State Park, located in Oglesby, Illinois, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of hiking trails and stunning natural landscapes. One of the park’s most captivating features is the Owl Canyon, a unique geological formation that has captured the imagination of visitors for generations. Discovering the Owl Canyon Trail … Read more
Starved Rock State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities including hiking, fishing, boating, and picnicking. While there are no specific grilling areas within the park, visitors are allowed to grill within the picnic area by utilizing grills in place or bringing their own. Open fires are not allowed … Read more
Starved Rock State Park is a renowned destination for birdwatchers, particularly during the winter months when migratory species like the Bald Eagle flock to the area. The park is home to a diverse array of bird species, including Black-capped Chickadees, White-breasted Nuthatches, White-throated Sparrows, Tufted Titmice, and Pine Siskins. In the winter, visitors may also … Read more
Starved Rock State Park is a natural wonder in Illinois, renowned for its stunning canyons, towering sandstone walls, and diverse hiking trails. One of the park’s most distinctive features is the intricate network of stairs that allow visitors to access the breathtaking vistas and explore the park’s unique geological formations. The Staircase Challenge at Starved … Read more
Starved Rock State Park, nestled in the heart of Utica Township, Illinois, is a true gem for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. This 2,630-acre park boasts 13 miles of hiking trails, 18 stunning canyons, and numerous cascading waterfalls, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the great … Read more
Starved Rock State Park’s French Canyon: A Captivating Hike Starved Rock State Park’s French Canyon is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. This 2.5-mile out-and-back trail offers a scenic route through a stunning canyon, complete with towering rock walls, a cascading waterfall, and a serene pond. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or … Read more
Starved Rock State Park, a popular outdoor destination in Illinois, offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors. While the park’s natural beauty and hiking trails are the main attractions, the quality and availability of its bathroom facilities are also important considerations for those planning a visit. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different … Read more
Starved Rock State Park’s Lover’s Leap is a must-visit destination for any state park touring enthusiast. Located near Oglesby, Illinois, this stunning natural wonder offers breathtaking views of the Illinois River and the surrounding landscape. The Lover’s Leap Overlook Trail is a 1.8-mile out-and-back hike that leads to the Lover’s Leap overlook, providing visitors with … Read more