Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center

"the funnel cake and nachos are worth every second!! wow wow wowsers!!! we could have stayed in the cafe for hours before entering the park and we always enjoy the fish tank and staff and friendly advice!! From one adventure to another we discover the beauty of Starved Rock State Park Visitors Center!!!"

"There are many canyons to explore in this area. Take a picture of the map, as they don't have paper maps. Bring a water bottle and snacks. The trails are steep and you will be hiking a distance to get to most of the canyons. Wear hiking boots. You will be climbing on sandstone which is slippery and you may have to walk in streams. VERY IMPORTANT do NOT LEAN ON TREES to look down in canyons. You and the tree can topple down. This park is full of beauty. Get there early, so you can take your time to explore. The vistas are breathtaking. You can view the lock, dam and river. The leaves are turning and cascading down and carpeting the trails. Stop in the visitor center, as it has restrooms, a store, food and an information center. Learn about the history of Starved Rock and see some exhibits. There is also a lodge and campground. Come out for an adventure, you won't be disappointed."

"Starved Rock's trails, adorned in the breathtaking palette of fall colors, offer a sensory feast for nature enthusiasts. The moderate skill level trails, though challenging, reward hikers with an immersive experience amidst vibrant autumn hues. The deciduous trees transform into a tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds, creating a picturesque landscape that feels like stepping into a painting. While the trail demands a moderate skill level, the allure of the fall foliage and the invigorating exercise make it a rewarding endeavor. It's an opportunity to connect with nature's seasonal transformation, a visual symphony of fall's vibrant farewell. Starved Rock's trails, with their challenging yet accessible nature, beckon hikers to embrace the beauty of autumn, one step at a time."

"This visitor center is comparable to a national park's. It's large, staffed by rangers who are well-versed on any detail you might ask about, clean restrooms, vending machines, and two gift shops. A helpful ranger pointed out to me what she thought I would most enjoy on a hike, after telling her my preferences. Hours are clearly listed outside the building. There's even a mini museum detailing the park's history. Paper maps are not offered at this time and visitors are encouraged to download map or take a picture of one inside the building. I get the eco-friendliness, but what if my phone dies while hiking? The trails are marked clearly enough, I can't imagine getting lost. But a paper map would be useful."