State parks with lakes, waterfalls, bluffs, ancient forests, scenic overlooks, caves, and fascinating rock formations can be found throughout the Prairie State. But according to Travel + Leisure, there is one state park that stands out among the rest. Starved Rock State Park was named the best in Illinois for its otherworldly landscape of forest, canyons, and waterfalls. If you haven’t yet explored this incredible park, it is there and waiting for you to do so.
Starved Rock State Park encompasses 2,630 acres and has long been considered one of the most beautiful state parks in Illinois. With 13 miles of trails and endless scenery, there is much to be explored.
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Around the park, you will find 18 sandstone canyons that were formed long ago by glacial meltwater. Several of these canyons, like LaSalle Canyon pictured here, show off breathtaking waterfalls that are worth hiking to.
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Starved Rock’s acreage sits along the Illinois River in LaSalle County. While you’re here exploring, try to find a scenic overlook to view it from above. It’s absolutely stunning!
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Speaking of overlooks, Lover’s Leap Overlook is the best-known in the park. If you take the short 1.7-mile loop trail by the same name, not only will you be led to sweeping vistas but to a canyon with a lovely little waterfall as well.
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Known for its fascinating rock formations including canyons, overlooks, and overhangs, Starved Rock State Park is filled with geological natural wonders.
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While this park is incredibly beautiful, it’s more than just a pretty face. Plenty of recreational opportunities abound here as well.
Kayak Starved Rock/Facebook Aside from hiking, visitors can also go bird watching, wildlife viewing, camping, hunting, fishing, and boating throughout certain areas of the park. One fun option is to take a guided kayak tour through Kayak Morris to explore sandstone cliffs and canyons by water.
If you want to spend more than just a day exploring the best state park in Illinois, you can reserve a spot at a campsite or book a stay at the historic Starved Rock Lodge. Constructed in the 1930s, the Lodge is on the National Register of Historic Places and has a fine dining restaurant as well as incredible park views.
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Have you visited Starved Rock State Park, the best state park in Illinois? If so, what did you like best about it? Did you stay at the lodge? Please share your thoughts and any photos in the comments.
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Aside from hiking, visitors can also go bird watching, wildlife viewing, camping, hunting, fishing, and boating throughout certain areas of the park. One fun option is to take a guided kayak tour through Kayak Morris to explore sandstone cliffs and canyons by water.
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If you enjoy exploring the state parks of Illinois, you may also want to check out Dixon Springs State Park in Golconda.
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