Welcome to Starved Rock State Park, a breathtaking natural escape in Illinois, renowned for its stunning rock formations, picturesque canyons, and vibrant history. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore deeper, this guide provides essential information to ensure a memorable and safe experience at Starved Rock.
Plan Your Visit to the Visitor Center
The Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center serves as your gateway to exploring the park. Here, you can gather information, explore exhibits, and speak with park staff to enhance your visit.
Visitor Center Hours:
The Visitor Center, including the exhibit hall, park office, and information desk, is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Please note 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
[Insert image of Starved Rock Visitor Center here]
(Alt: Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center entrance, inviting visitors to explore)
Important Park Area Closures: Check Before You Go
To ensure visitor safety and allow for necessary maintenance, certain areas within Starved Rock State Park are currently closed. It’s crucial to be aware of these closures before planning your hiking routes.
Currently Closed Areas:
- Brown Bluff Trail above French Canyon: This trail section is closed for safety reasons. Please avoid attempting to access Brown Bluff from above French Canyon.
- Tonti Canyon and Tonti Bridge: Both Tonti Canyon and the bridge within this canyon are closed to the public.
- West Side Trail from LaSalle Canyon to Tonti Canyon: Access between LaSalle Canyon and Tonti Canyon via the west side trail is prohibited at this time.
- Owl Canyon Overlook: The overlook at Owl Canyon is currently inaccessible.
- Trail from West Entrance to Boat Ramp Area: The trail connecting the West Entrance to the Boat Ramp Area is closed.
[Insert image of a closed trail sign at Starved Rock here]
(Alt: Trail closed sign at Starved Rock State Park, informing visitors of restricted access for safety)
Please respect these closures and plan your routes accordingly. Park staff are working to reopen these areas as soon as it is safe and feasible. Check for updates at the Visitor Center upon arrival.
Activity Permits for Groups: Requirements and Guidelines
For organized groups planning activities within Starved Rock State Park, it’s important to understand the permit requirements. These regulations help manage park resources and ensure a positive experience for all visitors.
Permits for Groups of 20 or More:
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) requires any group of 20 or more people using park facilities to obtain advance written permission from the Site Superintendent. This is essential for managing larger groups and ensuring park resources are not overstressed.
Activity Permits for Special Uses and Liability:
Regardless of group size, an Activity Permit may be required for:
- Non-traditional use of park facilities: Examples include family reunions in picnic areas or organized events.
- Activities with increased potential liability: This includes activities that might pose a higher risk, such as search and rescue training exercises on rock faces.
In such cases, the IDNR may also require additional liability coverage. If your organization, family, or school does not have liability insurance, a Release of Liability form can be used.
Download Activity Permit Form
Download Release of Liability Form
Important Considerations for Permit Applications:
Site managers may deny permit requests if:
- Facilities are inadequate for the group size.
- Public health or safety could be compromised.
- Liability risk to the Department is deemed too high.
- Adverse impacts on the natural resources of Starved Rock State Park are anticipated.
Permit to Sell:
If your activity involves selling food or goods, charging fees, or any exchange of money between organizers, spectators, or participants, a Permit to Sell is necessary.
[Insert image of a group hiking at Starved Rock here]
(Alt: Group of hikers enjoying a trail at Starved Rock State Park, showcasing group activities)
Applying for Your Activity Permit: Step-by-Step
To ensure a smooth permit process, please follow these guidelines:
-
Submit Early: Complete and submit your Activity Permit application at least 2-3 weeks before your scheduled visit.
-
Liability Documentation: Obtain Proof of Liability Insurance (from your business, school, or organization) or ensure each participant signs a Release of Liability Form in advance.
-
Submission: Email, mail, or drop off your completed Activity Permit and supporting documents to:
Email: [email protected]
Mail or Drop Off:
Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center
PO Box 509
Utica, IL 61373 -
Response Time: The Site Superintendent will typically respond within 2 weeks of receiving your complete permit application, either via email ([email protected]) or phone at 1-815-667-4726, with an approval or denial of your group visit.
Download Common Park Questions and Answers Booklet
By planning ahead and understanding these guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Starved Rock State Park for yourself and your group. We look forward to welcoming you to experience the natural beauty of Starved Rock!
