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Possible online services disruption due to Internet related outage

A worldwide technology outage is causing disruption to some State of Illinois online systems.  We are aware of this issue and are diligently working on restoration.

Attention hunters: Visit our FAQ page for information about the use of centerfire, single-shot rifles for deer hunting in Illinois. 

visitor center

Situated along the scenic Illinois River, the Starved Rock Visitor Center should be the first stop when visiting the park. Once inside the visitor center, visitors can view museum-quality exhibits and displays detailing the park's history, geology, and ecology. 

Hours of Operation

The Visitor Center exhibit hall, park office, and information desk are open Monday through Sunday:

  • Daily 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Visitor Center is CLOSED on: 

  • Election Day 
  • Veterans Day
  • Thanksgiving
  • Day after Thanksgiving
  • Christmas Day 
  • New Year's Day
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day
  • Lincolns Birthday 
  • Presidents' Day 
  • Juneteenth

 

Visitor Resources

  • Junior Ranger Program, please view the INTERPRETIVE tab on this page. 
  • School and Youth Group Field Trips can view further information on the INTERPRETIVE tab on this page.  
  • Exhibits and displays are open from 9-4 at the visitor center and discuss the geology, history, and ecology of the park.  
  • Brochures and pamphlets on local resources including state parks, state historic sites, camping, and more are available by request at the front desk. 

 

Movies by Request

  • In the Shadow of the Rock (history) 15 minutes
  • Orientation to Starved Rock 9 minutes
  • Smoky the Bear and Friends (cartoon for kids) 9 minutes
  • Civilian Conservation Corps (history of the CCC at the park) 15 minutes
  • On the Wings of the Wind (bald eagle film) 15 minutes

 

Trail Maps and Recommendations 

Park personnel and volunteers will be available to provide insights about the trail system, recommend trails, and share information about the park. You can find large maps at each trail intersection and parking area, conveniently located alongside brown directional signs and trail markers. For those who prefer to prepare in advance, trail recommendations and maps are accessible under the Activities tab on this page allowing visitors to download and print them before their trip to the park.

Gift store reopens May 3rd 2021 Pam Grivetti.jpg

Le Rocher Gift Shop 

Hours of Operation:  Open most days when volunteers are present from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

The Le Rocher Gift Shop stands out as a truly unique destination, proudly run by the Starved Rock Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the state park. Every dollar spent at this gift shop directly benefits the park, funding essential supplies, programs, and events, as well as enhancing displays and exhibits.

Teachers can enjoy a 10% discount on their purchases by simply presenting their school ID at the checkout.

Interested in discovering more about the Starved Rock Foundation? Join us as a member today and play a vital role in supporting the park!

Starved Rock Foundation Membership and Information Brochure