Starved Rock Area

Starved Rock Area from the Heritage Corridor represents a place where the outdoor activities are at home. You can enjoy a bike ride or go hiking on one of the well marked trails. Other outdoor activities from Starved Rock Area include canoeing, horseback riding and boating.

Rich in history and bursting with activities, the Starved Rock Area includes beautiful and enjoyable attractions no matter what the season. Starved Rock State Park, boasts 13 miles of well-marked trails, bluffs and 18 canyons. The parks Visitors Center filled with interactive exhibits and a video of the park's history.

Stop by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers Illinois Waterway Visitors Center. Overlooking the lock and dam, the center is the perfect spot for bird watching, particularly wintering eagles.

For history buffs, view the looming statues of Lincoln and Douglas in the square at Ottawa or visit one of the area's historical mansions. Nature lovers will find canoeing, horseback riding and boating in the towns throughout the Starved Rock Area including Ottawa, Utica, Streator, Mendota, LaSalle, Peru, Marseilles, Seneca or Oglesby. Each offers inviting restaurants, quaint shopping and hometown hospitality.

Starved Rock State Park
According to the legend, a band of Illiniwek, under attack by a band of Potawatomi (allies of the Ottawa), sought refuge atop a 125-foot sandstone butte. The Ottawa and Potawatomi surrounded the bluff and held their ground until the hapless Illiniwek died of starvation - giving rise to the name "Starved Rock." Today, the park's beautiful scenery attracts thousands to hear the legend and view the park's waterfalls, canyons and bluffs.

Canoeing
With the Illinois, Vermilion and Fox Rivers flowing through the Starved Rock Area, it is not hard to imagine that it's the perfect place to canoe. Canoe rentals are available at several facilities along the waterways.

LaSalle Canal Boat
Board the LaSalle Canal Boat, and enjoy the scenery and history of a mule pulled replica 19th century canal boat on the waterway that changed the face of the nation - the historic Illinois & Michigan Canal. Stop at Lock 16 and browse the extensive gift shop and enjoy a light lunch while you plan the rest of your visit.