Everything You Need to Know: Starved Rock State Park FAQs

Yes. Cabins are available via the historic Starved Rock Lodge. Choose from pioneer-style units or luxury sunset cabins—each with air conditioning, fireplaces, and private baths. Guests wake up amid the forest and can step straight onto the park’s trail network.

Private cabins in Utica, Oglesby, and Ottawa feature hot tubs, full kitchens, and family‑friendly layouts—perfect for weekend escapes or extended stays.

Yes. The campground offers 129 Class‑A sites with electric hookups, fire rings, picnic tables, plus modern restrooms and showers. Open year‑round; reserve early from spring through fall.

• Matthiessen State Park – additional trails and scenery.
• Pleasant Creek Campground – private RV & tent sites.
• Hickory Hollow Campground – full‑service RV sites and tent camping.

All are within a 10‑mile radius for easy Illinois Valley exploration.

• Hampton Inn & Suites Peru – indoor pool, free breakfast.
• Best Western Oglesby Inn – convenient off‑I‑39 location.
• Fairfield Inn & Suites Ottawa Starved Rock Area – 10‑15 min from park.

Yes. Starved Rock Lodge offers rustic hotel rooms with forest views, an indoor pool, restaurant, and doorstep access to major trailheads.

The park boasts 18 sandstone canyons, seasonal waterfalls, sweeping Illinois River overlooks, and rich Native American history—delivering four‑season hiking and wildlife watching.

Download the official map from the Illinois DNR or pick up a glossy version at the Visitor Center. It marks trails, viewpoints, and waterfall spots.

Beyond the lodge, consider B&Bs, Airbnb cottages, and boutique hotels in Utica or Ottawa—close to dining, shops, and other parks like Matthiessen and Buffalo Rock.

• The Lodge Restaurant – hearty American fare with forest views.
• Duffy’s Tavern – burgers & sandwiches in Utica.
• Canal Port – Italian‑American dishes overlooking the canal.
• Nonie’s Bakery & Café – breakfast & lunch (7 am – 2 pm).

• Hiking through sandstone canyons
• Seasonal waterfalls
• Illinois River overlooks
• Wildlife viewing (eagles, deer, herons)
• Guided trolley & ranger hikes

• 129 Class‑A electric sites
• Modern restrooms & showers
• Sanitary dump station
• Picnic areas & playground
• Direct trail access to canyons

Yes. The Lodge Restaurant serves classic American meals, Sunday brunch, holiday buffets, and offers scenic dining room views.

• St. Louis Canyon Trail – large waterfall.
• LaSalle Canyon Trail – rock formations & falls.
• Starved Rock Overlook Trail – river panorama.
• Wildcat Canyon Trail – park’s tallest waterfall.

Safety: Use ice cleats in winter; carry extra water in summer.

No water park on‑site, but Grand Bear Resort (5 mi away) offers indoor slides and pools.

• French Canyon
• LaSalle Canyon
• St. Louis Canyon

Waterfalls peak in spring and after heavy rains.

• Explore Matthiessen State Park
• See bison at Buffalo Rock State Park
• Shop & sip wine in downtown Utica
• Take an Illinois River boat tour
• Go horseback riding, kayaking, or biking

Spring: 50‑70 °F – ideal for waterfalls.
Summer: 75‑90 °F – warm & humid.
Fall: 50‑70 °F – vivid foliage.
Winter: 20‑35 °F – icy falls & snow.

Always check conditions; icy trails may close.

Yes. Leashed dogs are allowed on all trails and in the campground. Pet‑friendly cabins are limited, and pets aren’t permitted inside buildings or on guided tours.

Approximately 90 miles (90 min) southwest of Chicago via I‑55 or I‑80 toward Utica.

No reservation needed for day hiking, but book ahead for campsites, cabins, or guided tours—especially in summer.

Yes. Kayak rentals and guided river tours operate seasonally on the Illinois River.