Starved Rock State Park wins vote for favorite IL state park!

Starved Rock voted Illinois’ favorite state park!

The Illinois Conservation Foundation recently announced that Starved Rock State Park was voted Illinois' Favorite State Park! Starved Rock beat out 26 other state parks in the 400,000+ visitors per year category, the biggest one. Funds that were raised during the fundraiser will go towards the restoration and revitalization of parks across the state, including trail improvements, new playground equipment, accessibility upgrades. Illinois stands among the few states—only seven in total—that do not charge an entrance fee for State Parks. 

Starved Rock State Park, located along the Illinois River in La Salle County, is one of Illinois' most stunning natural treasures. Designated as the state's second park in 1911, it boasts 18 canyons with moss-covered St. Peter Sandstone walls carved by glacial meltwater, creating dramatic tree-covered bluffs. The park offers over 13 miles of trails that lead to rain-fed waterfalls, sandstone overhangs, and breathtaking overlooks. Rich with white and red oak, maple, hickory, and pines, the lush vegetation supports abundant wildlife. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and hunting, with the Starved Rock Visitor Center and the historic Starved Rock Lodge providing year-round amenities. The park also offers special events, guided tours, and educational programs.

Historically, the area has been inhabited for 10,000 years, with the Illinois Confederation, including the Kaskaskia people, being the most recent Native American occupants. French explorers Louis Jolliet and Father Jacques Marquette passed through in 1673, and the French established Fort St. Louis atop Starved Rock in 1682.

Now is the time to visit Starved Rock Country!

Our Starved Rock hub lists all the best restaurants, lodging, attractions, and more to make the perfect trip!