Starved Rock State Park

The following pit stop was submitted by Pit Stops for Kids reader Erica Smith.

Starved Rock State Park is one of Illinois’ most beautiful natural landmarks. Located in Utica, Illinois and filled with canyons and waterfalls, Starved Rock offers breathtaking hiking, biking, exploration, and lodging. Families can stop by for the day, or consider it a destination!

Distance from the interstate: Five minutes from I-39, also near I-80.

What to do: Kids can meet and learn about animals at Fox Ridge, the new outdoor venue near the lodge, and entire families will enjoy hiking the many trails (open in all seasons). Land and water cruises are offered June through September, and events and festivals continue throughout the year.

Admission cost: Free day use.

Hours of operation: 7 am to 9 pm.

Dining options: Picnic areas are available, as well as casual and fine dining at the lodge.

Accommodations: Camping is available, and a full lodge is located in the state park. If you want to cater specifically to the kids, located right next to Starved Rock is Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort. Housing a full indoor-outdoor water park, plenty of in-house dining, and kids’ activities, this ‘Great Wolf Lodge’ type resort offers the best of both worlds: kid heaven adjacent to natural splendor. Rates can be found on the Grizzly Jack resort page. Since lodge accommodations are needed for water park admission, we recommend booking one night here, and subsequent nights at the lodge or campground.

Directions: The lodge and park are located east of the intersection of Routes 178 & 71 in Utica, IL. From I-39 southbound: Go south to I-80 east (exit #59). Go two miles to exit #81 (Rt. 178, Utica). Go south (right) 3 miles on Rt. 178 and follow the signs into the park.

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