Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park stretches across more than 1,050 hectares along the Illinois River and shelters 18 sandstone canyons with dense forest cover and waterfalls. The canyons have moss-covered walls and narrow paths that wind through rock formations, while the river curves through open landscape below.

The area became a park in 1911 and later received recognition as a National Historic Landmark. Workers from the Civilian Conservation Corps built many of the paths and structures during the 1930s that visitors use today.

Local legend recalls an event when members of the Illinois tribe took refuge atop the highest rock formation during a conflict. Today, visitors walk canyon trails and watch eagles along the river, especially during winter months when the birds return to fish.

More than 20 kilometers of marked trails run through the canyons and along the river, though some sections become slippery when wet. The grounds offer camping areas and several visitor centers with maps and updates on trail conditions throughout the year.

The waterfalls flow mainly in spring when snowmelt and rain fill the canyons with water. In winter, climbers use the frozen walls of some canyons for ice climbing, an activity not possible during the rest of the year.

Location: Deer Park Township

Inception: 1911

Operator: Illinois Department of Natural Resources

Website: https://dnr.illinois.gov/parks/park.starvedrock.html

GPS coordinates: 41.32140,-88.99030

Latest update: December 12, 2025 18:14