Starved Rock State Park

by Matt B on February 17th, 2008

I was born and raised an urbanite, but even I can appreciate the magnificence that nature has to offer. When city dwellers want to get away from the lights and the noise, many of them head to Starved Rock State Park in Utica, approximately 75 miles (121 km) southwest of Chicago. The park has 13 miles (21 km) of hiking trails and 18 sandstone canyons and is located along the south side of the Illinois River.

Camping, boating, fishing, picnicking, and horseback riding are all popular activities at Starved Rock, and rental gear is available. Due to the fragile nature of the sandstone formations, climbing, rappelling, and swimming are all strictly prohibited. Starved Rock is one of the busiest state parks in Illinois with an annual attendance of over one million. A few areas show definite signs of extensive use, and visitors are encouraged to stay on officially marked trails to prevent further erosion. Overnight accommodations and restaurants are also located at the park and in nearby communities.

While the areas along the river are mostly forested, much of the park is actually a flat plain. These rolling prairies are a beautiful example of what the Midwest is known for. The slow-paced Illinois River is home to numerous species of fish, frogs, salamanders, and snakes. Several birds, including owls, hawks, and eagles, can be seen flying through the sky. And be sure to keep an eye out for badgers, rabbits, chipmunks, gophers, muskrats, raccoons, foxes, deer, beavers, coyotes, squirrels, minks, bats, otters, weasels, and skunks! (Especially that last one. Phew!)

There are also plenty of various forms of plantlife and trees, but even if you're not a botanist, I'd recommend looking for one plant in particular: poison ivy! You want your trip to be fun, not itchy! Remember, 'Leaves of three, let it be.' The best way to avoid this plant is stay on the marked trails.

Starved Rock provides recreational activities abound. Fishing boats may be launched from the west end of the park. The Illinois River carries catfish, bullhead, white bass, walleye, and carp. There are 100 campsites available, complete with electricity, showers, and toilets. A new camp store provides firewood, ice, snacks, and other camping supplies. Horse rentals are available for use along equestrian trails (April through November). Cross-country skiing can be enjoyed in the picnic area and at nearby Matthiessen State Park. Hiking trail maps are located at all trail access points. Starved Rock has something for everyone.