Starved Rock State Park is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, especially during the spring season. The park is known for its scenic trails, waterfalls, and canyons, which are particularly stunning in March when the weather starts to warm up and the waterfalls are at their peak.
Visiting Starved Rock State Park in March
Starved Rock State Park is open daily from 7am to sunset, and the Visitor Center is open from 9am to 4pm. However, it is closed on Federal holidays from November through March. The Starved Rock Campground is open from 8:30am to 10pm daily.
The park features 13 miles of trails and 18 canyons, and visitors are advised to stay on marked trails and follow park rules. In March, the park offers several guided hikes and Waterfall & Canyon Tours, which are a great way to explore the park’s natural beauty. The trolley tours are also a popular option, providing a unique perspective on the park’s history and geology.
Exploring the Park’s Waterfalls and Canyons
One of the main attractions of Starved Rock State Park in March is the park’s stunning waterfalls and canyons. The park’s 18 canyons were formed by glacial meltwater and erosion, and they are particularly impressive during the spring when the waterfalls are at their peak.
Some of the park’s most popular waterfalls and canyons include:
| Waterfall/Canyon | Description |
|---|---|
| Starved Rock | The park’s namesake, a 125-foot tall sandstone butte that overlooks the Illinois River. |
| Wildcat Canyon | A deep, narrow canyon with a 30-foot waterfall. |
| French Canyon | A scenic canyon with a 30-foot waterfall. |
| Pontiac Canyon | A narrow canyon with a 30-foot waterfall. |
| Kaskaskia Canyon | A deep canyon with a 35-foot waterfall. |
Visitors can explore these canyons and waterfalls by hiking the park’s trails, which range from easy to strenuous. The park’s guided hikes and Waterfall & Canyon Tours are a great way to learn more about the park’s geology and natural history.
Enjoying the Park’s Amenities
In addition to its natural beauty, Starved Rock State Park offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. The park’s indoor pool complex features a lap pool, shallow-depth children’s pool, two saunas, and a hot tub, providing a great place to relax and unwind after a day of hiking and exploring the park.
For those interested in learning more about the park’s history and ecology, the Visitor Center offers a movie theater that is open daily from 9am to 4pm, with the last viewing at 3:30pm. The theater features videos on demand that provide insights into the park’s rich history and natural wonders.
Planning Your Visit
Visitors are advised to plan their visit to Starved Rock State Park in March in advance and check the park’s website for any closures or restrictions. The park’s website also features a trail map and a 2024 event calendar, which includes National Trails Day, Junior Ranger Day, Falltober Fest, Ghosts of Starved Rock’s Past, and Eagle Watch Weekend.
Overall, Starved Rock State Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, especially in March when the park’s waterfalls and canyons are at their best. With its scenic trails, guided hikes, trolley tours, and indoor pool complex, the park offers something for everyone.
References:
– Celebrate Spring at Starved Rock Lodge
– Why Choose Starved Rock for Spring Break 2022
– Starved Rock State Park
– Is it good to go to Starved rock state park end of March
– Starved Rock State Park – Illinois Department of Natural Resources