On any given weekend, Starved Rock State Park is full of life. Hikers line the trails, cameras point toward canyon walls, and voices echo through the trees. It is hard to imagine that this same landscape once stood largely untouched, with no paths to follow and no signs pointing the way. Long before it became a state park, Starved Rock was a place of movement, shelter, and strategic importance, shaped by glaciers, water, and thousands of years of human presence. Vintage Star

Witness majestic eagles soaring high in the sky in one of the most unforgettable winter experiences in Illinois. Each winter, nature lovers, photographers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts gather at Starved Rock State Park for one of the most anticipated events of the season: Eagle Watch Weekend. This year, the tradition continues on Saturday, January 24 and Sunday, January 25, 2026 , with two full days of education, exploration, and awe across multiple locations throughout

Starved Rock State Park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It's also perfect for observing wildlife in the winter!

Snow is falling, and you’re excited to take a roadtrip to Starved Rock State Park to experience the beauty of winter. But time is limited...

Together, we reached new milestones. We welcomed thousands of new members, introduced tools that helped visitors in every season, and gave back in meaningful ways. But most of all, we proved that the best way to care for these parks is by sharing them. Here are just a few of the moments that made 2025 unforgettable:

Recommendations to enhance your Winter hiking experience!

Non-slip shoes do not provide enough traction when on the icy trails. Adding extra traction to your boots with Yaktrax, Microspikes, or ...

Discover exciting Starved Rock events in 2026! From hikes to art shows, explore nature's beauty. Don't miss out on these Starved Rock events

It’s no secret that Starved Rock State Park receives millions of visitors every year. School is out, temperatures are rising...

Sunflowers are back at Matthiessen State Park, IL. Here's all the details you need to make your next trip to the sunflowers a success...

At Starved Rock Hikers, we’ve always believed the park has more to offer than what’s seen from the trails. And now, for the first time...

Whether you’re here for a quick photo op or a full-day adventure, here’s how to find the best spot for your plans.

Springtime is the best time for seeing waterfalls in Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks. Snowmelt and increased rainfall help the...

Flowers are never more beautiful than in the spring season, so be on the lookout for blooming petals and bright colors! As you walk...

Earth Day is April 22, 2025, and the global theme this year is "Our Power, Our Planet". his theme focuses on the crucial role of renewable energy…

Waterfalls are flowing, flowers are starting to bloom, greenery is appearing, and rainfall is occurring more often. This leads to muddy...

Ice Climbers of Starved Rock officially available to stream — for FREE. This 28-minute film captures the passion, grit, and awe-inspiring...

Discover exciting Starved Rock events in 2025! From hikes to art shows, explore nature's beauty. Don't miss out on these Starved Rock events

How to enjoy a hike at Starved Rock State Park in the midst of winter...What you need to know before hiking at Starved Rock this winter...

Dear Starved Rock Hikers Community,   As 2024 comes to an end, I’m excited to reflect on an incredible year of growth, connection, and...