Planning a camping adventure at the stunning Starved Rock State Park? It’s a fantastic choice, but securing your campsite requires advance planning. Reservations are mandatory for camping at Starved Rock State Park and must be made before your arrival.
Campground Reservations: Your Essential First Step
To guarantee your place amidst the natural beauty of Starved Rock, you need to make a reservation through the official online portal, ExploreMoreILâ„¢. Reservations can be made starting 6 months in advance, but no later than 4 days prior to your planned arrival date. It’s important to note that reservations cannot be made by phone or at the park office. The online system is the sole method for booking your campsite.
Booking Window: Plan Ahead for Popular Dates
The Starved Rock Campground is incredibly popular, especially during peak seasons and weekends from May through October. To avoid disappointment, it is highly recommended to make your reservations as close to the 6-month mark as possible, particularly if you’re planning a weekend getaway during the warmer months. Don’t wait until the last minute – popular dates fill up quickly! Keep in mind that you cannot book further than 108 days in advance.
Cancellations: Manage Your Reservation Online
Life happens, and plans can change. If you need to cancel your reservation, it must be done online through the ExploreMoreIL website. You can also reach their call center at 866-716-6550 for cancellation assistance, although online cancellation is preferred. Please be aware that reservation fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Do not attempt to cancel your reservation by contacting the park office directly, as they cannot process cancellations.
Checking Availability and Walk-in Options
Wondering if there’s still space available? You can easily check real-time campsite availability on the ExploreMoreIL website. If the website indicates no availability, it means the campground is fully booked through the online reservation system. Online reservations are not possible within 2 days of your arrival date. This period opens up for walk-in campers. If you haven’t made a reservation in advance, walk-in sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis directly at the campground.
Campground Specifics: Loops, Capacity, and Regulations
The Starved Rock Campground features two loops: the West Loop and the East Loop. The West Loop remains open year-round, providing camping opportunities even in colder months. However, the East Loop closes seasonally, from the weekend before Thanksgiving until April 1st.
Regarding campsite capacity, each site has a strict limit. A maximum of one family (defined as 2 parents and their minor children) or a maximum of 4 adults are permitted per campsite. This limit also applies to equipment, with a maximum of 2 tents or 1 RV and 1 tent allowed per site. These rules are non-negotiable. If your group exceeds these limits, you will need to reserve additional campsites online.
Your Campground Guide: The Brochure
For detailed information, including campground maps, comprehensive rules and regulations, and current pricing, please consult the official Starved Rock Campground brochure. This brochure is your complete guide to understanding all aspects of camping at the park and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Securing your campsite at Starved Rock State Park requires advance online reservation. By planning ahead and utilizing the ExploreMoreILâ„¢ system, you can ensure your spot and look forward to an unforgettable camping trip in this beautiful natural destination.
