Along the the shores of the Illinois River in North central Illinois you'll find a dramatic landscape of eighteen canyons and high sandstone terraces carved by glacial meltwater and centuries of erosion.   

This picturesque and fertile river valley has been home to humans for over 8000 years.

Abundant archaeological evidence indicates that the Hopewell, Woodland, and Mississippian cultures had large villages here throughout the regions early history. 

In the more recent past (the 1700's) a very large Illiniwek or Kaskaskia village site, with an estimated population of 6,000 to 7,000 residents, once lined the banks of the Illinois river directly across from the park. 

In the 1600's the area was visited by French explorers, Louis Jolliet and Father Jacques Marquette.  Marquette later established the first Christian mission-at the Kaskaskia Indian village.   In the years that followed, a French fort was built on top of one of the sandstone buttes and dominated the river for many years.

The park actually derives its name from a Native American legend that recounts a tale of siege warfare.  According to the story, Chief Pontiac, of the Ottawa tribe was slain by an Illiniwek at a large tribal council.  Battles ensued to avenge his murder and during one particularly vicious fight, the Illiniwek sought refuge atop a 125-foot sandstone butte.  The Ottawa and their Potawatomi allies surrounded the bluff and waged a long siege, isolating the Illiniwek on the rock until they all slowly died of starvation.  That sandstone butte, dubbed "Starved Rock" is one of the most recognizable rock formations in the park. 

The park's trails ramble up and down over some fairly rugged terrain (proper foot wear is a must).  The high bluffs along the Illinois River offer some   spectacular scenic vistas, and are well worth the climb.

Dropping down into the lush, forested ravines offer opportunities to not only see the spectacular and unusual rock formations, but also appreciate the wild life that lives here. 

It is not uncommon (if you are quiet) to get close-up views of  Whitetail deer or even catch a glimpse of beavers at work. 
 

The Starved Rock State Park Lodge:

Starved Rock State Park also has a truly great lodge.  Built in the 1930's this wonderful timber and stone lodge reflects an earlier time and has a peaceful, reflective atmosphere.   Sitting in the original Great Room with its massive stone fireplace with a cup of hot chocolate is a great winter experience. 

The lodge sits on a high bluff offering a commanding view of the area from its massive deck.  There are 72 luxury hotel rooms and 22 cabins and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools.

The lodge's restaurant is open seven days a week and can easily  accommodate 250 people.  

When hiking around the Starved Rock State Park, be aware!  The terrain is rugged and the sandstone cliffs are rather high. In a few locations you are required to stay on the improved paths, decks, and stairs (but not every where).   Be smart, be safe, use common sense, as gravity always wins!  Also watch out for rattlesnakes, and the numerous poisonous plants that grow here.