Starved Rock State Park in Illinois is a true natural wonder, offering a wide range of facilities and amenities for visitors to enjoy. From picturesque picnic areas and well-maintained hiking trails to cozy lodging options and exciting recreational activities, this state park has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the various facilities available at Starved Rock State Park, helping you plan the perfect outdoor adventure.
Picnicking at Starved Rock
Starved Rock State Park boasts six shelters in the designated picnic area, located between the lower parking lot and the boat ramp. These shelters are available on a first-come, first-served basis and provide a perfect setting for a family gathering or a casual lunch. While the shelters do not have electricity or water, they are equipped with grills and picnic tables, making it easy to enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by the park’s stunning natural beauty.
It’s important to note that alcohol is prohibited in the picnic area from January 1 through May 31, and it is always prohibited on the trails. For groups of 20 or more people, an Activity Permit and Release of Liability Waiver are required, which must be submitted at least three weeks prior to the visit for state approval. A $25 Activity Permit Fee is due the day of the activity at the Starved Rock Visitor Center in the form of a check to IDNR or cash.
Hiking Trails at Starved Rock
Starved Rock State Park is renowned for its extensive network of hiking trails, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the park’s stunning canyons, waterfalls, and sandstone bluffs. The trails are open from 7:00 a.m. to sunset, providing ample time for visitors to immerse themselves in the park’s natural wonders.
The park’s trail system includes a variety of routes, ranging from easy, family-friendly walks to more challenging hikes for experienced adventurers. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous trek, Starved Rock has a trail that will suit your preferences.
Camping at Starved Rock
For those seeking a more immersive outdoor experience, Starved Rock State Park offers a campground with 133 campsites. The campground’s gates open at 8:30 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. daily, ensuring a peaceful and secure environment for campers.
The campsites are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, allowing visitors to enjoy the great outdoors while cooking their meals and gathering around the campfire. Shower and restroom facilities are also available within the campground, providing a comfortable and convenient camping experience.
Starved Rock Lodge and Amenities
In addition to the park’s outdoor facilities, Starved Rock State Park is home to the Starved Rock Lodge, which offers a range of amenities and activities for visitors. The lodge features a variety of room and cabin options, each equipped with modern conveniences such as mini-fridges, small microwaves, single-serve coffee makers, hair dryers, irons, free WiFi, flatscreen TVs, complimentary toiletries, and DVD rentals.
The lodge also boasts an indoor pool complex, complete with a large, heated indoor pool, a gated, children’s pool, a hot tub, and two saunas. Guests can also enjoy a variety of activities, including trolley tours, waterfowl cruises, and seasonal outdoor dining.
Visitor Center and Park Hours
The Starved Rock Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except on Federal holidays from November through March. This is the perfect place to start your visit, as the center provides information about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife, as well as maps and trail guides to help you navigate the park.
The park’s trails are open from 7:00 a.m. to sunset, allowing visitors to explore the stunning natural landscapes at their own pace. The Starved Rock Campground’s gates, on the other hand, open at 8:30 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. daily, ensuring a safe and secure environment for campers.
Group Activities and Permits
For groups of 20 or more people, Starved Rock State Park requires an Activity Permit and Release of Liability Waiver, which must be submitted at least three weeks prior to the visit for state approval. This ensures that the park can accommodate larger groups and maintain the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.
A $25 Activity Permit Fee is due the day of the activity at the Starved Rock Visitor Center, and it can be paid in the form of a check to IDNR or cash. This fee helps to support the park’s maintenance and conservation efforts, ensuring that Starved Rock remains a pristine natural wonder for generations to come.
In conclusion, Starved Rock State Park offers a wealth of facilities and amenities for visitors to explore and enjoy. From picturesque picnic areas and well-maintained hiking trails to cozy lodging options and exciting recreational activities, this state park truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic getaway, or an adventurous outdoor expedition, Starved Rock State Park is the perfect destination to immerse yourself in the beauty of Illinois’ natural landscape.
References:
– Illinois Department of Natural Resources. (n.d.). Picnicking at Starved Rock. Retrieved from https://dnr.illinois.gov/parks/picnic/park.starvedrock.html
– Illinois Department of Natural Resources. (n.d.). Starved Rock State Park. Retrieved from https://dnr.illinois.gov/parks/park.starvedrock.html
– Starved Rock Lodge. (n.d.). Activities. Retrieved from https://www.starvedrocklodge.com/activities/activities/
– Starved Rock Lodge. (n.d.). Amenities. Retrieved from https://www.starvedrocklodge.com/lodging/amenities/