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Starved Rock
| Established: |
1911 |
| Location: |
Southern Illinois (80 mi SW of Chicago, take I-55 S to I-80, then W on I-80 45mi to
exit #81 which is Rt 178 and go S 3mi on Rt 178) |
| Acres: |
2,816 |
IL, Starved Rock State Park, One of 18 canyons in the park.
A park renowned for its 18 steep
glaciated canyons that are flanked by sandstone
cliffs, streams, and waterfalls along the Illinois River. Formations created about
425 million years ago when this area was part of a giant
inland sea. The park has been a favorite destination among people for at least 10,000 years when
it was inhabited by native American Indian tribes. Today it is one of Illinois' most
popular State Parks.
Starved Rock's unique name was derived
from an Indian battle between the Potawatomi and
Illiniwek tribes. Historical accounts report the
Potawatomi became enraged over the death of their ally
Pontiac and attacked the Illiniwek village. The Illiniwek
then fled up a 125-foot sandstone butte where they were
surrounded. A highly defendable position, the Potawatomi
did not attack the butte. Eventually the surrounded
Illiniwek starved. Hence the name Starved Rock.
IL, Starved Rock State Park, View of the Illinois River from one of the park's many sandstone cliffs.
Wildlife at Starved Rock includes
beavers, muskrats, racoons, and flying squirrels that
flourish in its cedar, oak, and pine forests. Fisherman
frequently catch walleye, crappie, bass, and bullhead.
The Starved Rock Campground has 133
sites with water and electrical hookups ($11).
Reservations are accepted with some of the most private
sites being 97, 99, and 133. There is also a 72 room
lodge, 22 rustic cabins, and 250 seat restaurant which
centerpiece is a massive stone fireplace. Starved Rock
State Park, Box 509, Utica, IL 61373 (815)667-4726. http://dnr.state.il.us/lands/landmgt/parks/i&m/east/starve/park
All text and photos copyright ©1994-2006 Charles A. Read and ScenicUS.
Comments or Suggestions, Contact the Author Charles A. Read.
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