Starved Rock State Park

	    starved rock state park
	Located less than a two-hour drive from Chicago, Starved Rock features 18 canyons formed by glacial melt and stream erosion.
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P.O. Box 509
Utica, IL
1-800-868-ROCK
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advertisementSeason: Open all year, but temperatures for tent camping are best in May and June, and from September through mid-October. July and August are hot, and there are more bees and mosquitoes then. Waterfalls are most spectacular in spring.
advertisementFees: Camping is permitted year-round. For camping fees, click here.
advertisement Reservations: Reservations are accepted only by mail and only for camping from May through October. Reservation requests can be turned in any time after January 1 and must be received seven days before arrival. To access this reservation form, click here.
advertisementLocated less than a two-hour drive from Chicago, Starved Rock features 18 canyons formed by glacial melt and stream erosion. The park glitters with waterfalls in early spring, and the wildflowers in spring and summer are spectacular. The Illinois River flows along one side of the park, and there are stunning views of the river from atop many of the sandstone bluffs. (Stay on the trails though; the sandstone cliffs are fragile.)
advertisementFamily-Friendly Highlights & Tips
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Among the 13 miles of hiking trails, plenty are easy, but none are fit for strollers. Watch out for poison ivy throughout the area.
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Although swimming is not allowed in the park, the private White Oak Campground nearby offers the public use of its swimming hole for a small fee.
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The camping area has a playground, hot showers, and flush toilets.
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Common birds and wildlife include woodchucks, vireos, catbirds, rabbits, deer, raccoons, flying squirrels, red-tailed hawks, and woodpeckers. Bald eagles can be spotted in the park from October through February.
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Boating and fishing on the river are popular. At The Bell of the Rock, there is a concession where both canoes and motorboats can be rented. Narrated tour-boat and air-boat rides are also available at this location. Call 815-434-9200 for fees and schedules.
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Cycling is not allowed in the park, but the I&M Canal State Trail is just minutes away. 
(It's an easy trail even for little ones.)
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Starved Rock Stables, located on Route 71, offers horseback riding Wednesday through Sunday. Children must be at least 10 years of age. For more information you may contact Starved Rock Stables at 815-667-3026.
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Family Land Amusement Park is located 10 minutes away and has waterslides, miniature golf, go-karts, a picnic area, and a kiddie pool (815-224-4130).
starved rock state park

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