Plan Your Visit to Starved Rock State Park
Welcome to Starved Rock State Park, a breathtaking natural wonderland in Illinois! To ensure you have a memorable and safe experience, it’s essential to be well-prepared. This guide provides all the necessary information for your visit, including Visitor Center hours, important park updates, and permit requirements.
Visitor Center: Your First Stop
The Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center is your gateway to exploring the park’s wonders. Here, you can find park information, exhibits, and friendly staff ready to assist you.
Visitor Center Hours:
The Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Please note that the Visitor Center is closed on the following holidays:
- Election Day
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Day after Thanksgiving
- Christmas Day
- New Year’s Day
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- Lincoln’s Birthday
- Presidents’ Day
- Juneteenth
Alt text: Entrance to Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center, inviting visitors to explore and learn about the park.
Important Park Updates: Trail and Area Closures
Before heading out on your adventure, it’s crucial to be aware of any temporary closures within the park to ensure your safety and avoid disappointment. Starved Rock State Park occasionally closes certain areas for maintenance, safety reasons, or due to weather conditions.
Currently Closed Areas:
Please be advised that the following areas are temporarily closed to visitors:
- Brown Bluff Trail: The section of Brown Bluff Trail above French Canyon is currently CLOSED.
- Tonti Canyon and Tonti Bridge: Both Tonti Canyon and the Tonti Bridge are CLOSED for public access.
- West Side Trail (LaSalle to Tonti Canyon): The trail connecting LaSalle Canyon to Tonti Canyon on the west side is CLOSED.
- Owl Canyon Overlook: Owl Canyon Overlook is currently inaccessible to visitors.
- West Entrance to Boat Ramp Trail: The trail leading from the West Entrance to the Boat Ramp Area is CLOSED.
Alt text: A trail closed sign at Starved Rock State Park, informing visitors about temporary trail closures for safety and maintenance.
Please respect these closures and check for updates on the park’s official website or at the Visitor Center upon arrival for the most current information.
Activity Permits for Group Visits and Special Activities
To manage park usage and ensure visitor safety, Starved Rock State Park requires activity permits for large groups and certain activities.
Group Activity Permits (20 or More People):
If you are planning a group visit with 20 or more people, it is mandatory to obtain advance written permission from the Site Superintendent. This requirement, set by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, helps manage large groups and minimize impact on the park’s resources and other visitors’ experiences.
Special Activity Permits:
Regardless of group size, an Activity Permit might be necessary for non-traditional uses of park facilities or activities that could increase liability. Examples include:
- Family reunions in picnic areas
- Search and rescue training exercises
- Any activity deemed to increase potential liability to the Department
In such cases, you might also need to provide additional liability coverage. A Release of Liability form is available if your group or organization lacks liability insurance.
Alt text: A diverse group of hikers enjoying a trail at Starved Rock State Park, highlighting the park’s appeal for group outings.
Permit to Sell:
If your activity involves selling food, goods, charging fees, or any exchange of money among organizers, participants, or spectators, a Permit to Sell is required.
How to Obtain an Activity Permit: A Simple Guide
Follow these steps to apply for an Activity Permit smoothly:
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Apply in Advance: Submit your Activity Permit application at least 2-3 weeks before your planned visit.
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Liability Insurance or Release Form: Secure proof of liability insurance from your organization or have each participant sign a Release of Liability form.
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Submit Your Application: Email, mail, or drop off the completed Activity Permit and liability documentation to:
Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center
PO Box 509
Utica, IL 61373 -
Wait for Approval: The Site Superintendent will review your application and respond within two weeks via email or phone (1-815-667-4726) with approval or denial.
Alt text: A close-up view of an Activity Permit application form, emphasizing the importance of permits for organized activities at Starved Rock State Park.
By planning ahead and obtaining the necessary permits, you contribute to the smooth operation of Starved Rock State Park and help ensure a positive experience for everyone.
Further Information
For more detailed information and answers to frequently asked questions, refer to the Common Park Questions and Answers Booklet.
Enjoy your visit to Starved Rock State Park and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Illinois!
