Exclusive Services
Explore Starved Rock Country’s wonders with Starved Rock eBike Rentals. Discover the I&M Canal, downtown Utica, downtown Ottawa, downtown LaSalle Starved Rock state park, and Mathiessen state park. Our bikes offer 20-50 miles of range at 20 mph with the assist of powerful electric motors
Starved Rock State Park
Starved Rock State Park is a wilderness area on the Illinois River in the U.S. state of Illinois. It’s known for its steep sandstone canyons formed by glacial meltwater. Several, including the St. Louis, French and Wildcat canyons, have waterfalls. A wooded trail leads to Lover’s Leap Overlook, with views of the river and Starved Rock Dam. Park wildlife includes white-tailed deer, bald eagles and migratory birds.
Buffalo Rock State Park
Buffalo Rock State Park is located on a bluff which once was an island in the Illinois River. Now standing majestically on the north bank, this promontory affords a magnificent, sweeping view of the Illinois River. Located approximately 3 miles west of Ottawa in LaSalle County, this 298-acre park has long been a favorite picnic area, as well as a nature lovers’ delight. The area of Buffalo Rock was the home of the Illinois Indians when Louis Jolliet, the French explorer, and the Jesuit missionary priest Father Jacques Marquette made their trip up the Illinois River in 1673. Later, the Illinois tribe was virtually annihilated in protracted warfare with the aggressive Iroquois. -TRAIL MAP-
Matthieseen State Park
Canyons, streams, prairie, and forest combine to delight visitors at Matthiessen State Park. Located in LaSalle County, approximately 4 miles south of Utica, and 3 miles east of Oglesby, Matthiessen is a paradise for those interested in geology, as well as recreation. Visitors can expect to see beautiful rock formations in addition to unusual and abundant vegetation and wildlife. All of this, along with park and picnic facilities, make Matthiessen State Park a popular choice for an outing. -TRAIL MAP-
I&M Canal
The Illinois & Michigan Canal National Heritage Area is the first of its kind: a national park of communities, not federal land. Based around the I&M Canal, which connected the Illinois River to Lake Michigan creating an all-water, inland route from the East Coast to the Gulf of Mexico, our National Heritage Area is made up of 60 cities and towns, from Chicago to LaSalle-Peru, who owe their growth to the canal.
Kayak Starved Rock Campground
Looking for an adventure-filled vacation? Look no further than Kayak Starved Rock Campground! Nestled in the heart of Illinois, our campground offers the perfect balance of outdoor activities and relaxation.
Our campground is located just minutes from the stunning Starved Rock State Park, offering endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the great outdoors. But that’s not all – we also offer on-site kayaking on the beautiful Illinois River! Paddle your way through breathtaking scenery and experience the thrill of the rapids as you navigate the river.
When it’s time to wind down, our campground offers all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. And when you’re ready for some fun, our family-friendly activities and events are sure to keep everyone entertained. -Website-
Jamies Out Post
Stop in and visit our full-service bar while you browse a variety of unique souvenirs at our sister shop, Mix's Trading Post. Once you're done shopping grab a seat with some friends and choose from our delicious menu of grill-style Americana food. Jamie's Outpost is known to be one of the top biker bars in Illinois, with a family (and dog) friendly atmosphere that's fun for everyone.
Featuring live entertainment from local and national artists every week, there's always a reason to stop in at Jamie's Outpost. -Website-
August Hill Winery
Our story begins with August (Augie) Engelhaupt, a farmer who tended his acres on a hill with the help of his grandson, Mark. During these early mornings and late nights, Augie taught Mark the value of hard work and instilled in him a love of the land. Twenty-five years and a mechanical engineering degree later, Mark was excited to read that vineyards were thriving in the Illinois countryside he loved. Always eager to experiment, Mark learned all he could about grape-growing climates, varietals, and winemaking.
In 2002, Mark, along with his wife Teri, founded August Hill Winery on the same stretch of land that Mark’s grandfather nurtured with such care. Twenty years later, August Hill has expanded to include caves for aging wine, a tasting room, a sparkling wine program, and a staff that is family or feels like family. Throughout our growth, we continue to be guided by Augie’s spirit, and we carry a part of his signature in our logo to remind us of our roots.
Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center
Starved Rock Lodge
& Conference Center
Starved Rock State Park and Lodge is located less than two hours from Chicago. Relax in the comfort of our historic lodge accommodations, charming log cabins and spacious hotel rooms set among the pines, canyons and waterfalls of the park. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this authentic log-built lodge exudes a mix of rustic luxury, Midwestern hospitality and comfortable amenities. Our inviting accommodations, delicious restaurants and unlimited outdoor adventure are waiting for you.