Starved Rock State Park is a popular destination for state park touring enthusiasts, especially in November when the weather starts to cool down. The park offers a variety of activities and programs for visitors, including hiking, waterfalls, and educational opportunities.
Visiting Starved Rock State Park in November
Starved Rock State Park is open daily from 7am to sunset, and the Visitor Center is open daily from 9am to 4pm, except on Federal and State holidays from November through February. During this time, restrooms are open until 5pm, and the movie theater is open daily from 9am to 4pm with the last viewing at 3:30pm.
Park Hours and Facilities
- Park open daily from 7am to sunset
- Visitor Center open daily from 9am to 4pm, except on Federal and State holidays from November through February
- Restrooms open until 5pm
- Movie theater open daily from 9am to 4pm, with last viewing at 3:30pm
Hiking and Waterfalls
Hiking is a popular activity at Starved Rock State Park, with 13 miles of trails and 18 canyons to explore. The park is known for its stunning waterfalls, which are active in the spring and after heavy rains. Visitors are reminded to stay on marked trails and follow park rules.
Hiking Trails
- 13 miles of trails
- 18 canyons to explore
- Visitors must stay on marked trails and follow park rules
Waterfalls
- Stunning waterfalls active in the spring and after heavy rains
- Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the waterfalls
Park Programs and Events
Starved Rock State Park offers a variety of free park programs and field trips, as well as events throughout the year. In November, visitors can enjoy events such as National Trails Day, Junior Ranger Day, Falltober Fest, Ghosts of Starved Rock’s Past, Eagle Watch Weekend, and Night Hikes.
Free Park Programs and Field Trips
- Variety of free park programs and field trips available
- Visitors can learn about the history, geology, and ecology of the park
November Events
- National Trails Day
- Junior Ranger Day
- Falltober Fest
- Ghosts of Starved Rock’s Past
- Eagle Watch Weekend
- Night Hikes
History and Significance of Starved Rock State Park
Starved Rock State Park derives its name from a Native American legend involving Chief Pontiac of the Ottawa tribe and a great battle in the 1760s. The park was developed for vacationers in the late 1800s and early 1900s, and was named a National Historic Landmark in 1966.
Native American Legend
- Starved Rock State Park named after a Native American legend involving Chief Pontiac of the Ottawa tribe and a great battle in the 1760s
Park Development
- Developed for vacationers in the late 1800s and early 1900s
- Named a National Historic Landmark in 1966
Conclusion
Starved Rock State Park is a beautiful and historic destination that offers a variety of activities and programs for visitors, especially in November when the weather starts to cool down. Whether you’re interested in hiking, waterfalls, or learning about the park’s history, Starved Rock State Park is a must-visit destination for state park touring enthusiasts.
References:
– Illinois Department of Natural Resources. (n.d.). Starved Rock State Park. Retrieved from https://dnr.illinois.gov/parks/park.starvedrock.html
– TripAdvisor. (n.d.). Starved Rock State Park – All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g36483-d277909-Reviews-Starved_Rock_State_Park-Oglesby_Illinois.html
– Starved Rock Lodge. (n.d.). Starved Rock State Park. Retrieved from https://www.starvedrocklodge.com/starved-rock-state-park/.