Hikers' Photo Gallery

Camping @ the Rock (pdf)

Trails

Starved Rock State Park

Exploring the canyons and waterfalls is the park's primary attraction, and there are 13 miles of well-marked trails to help you enjoy them.

The trails are open all year, but hikers are urged to exercise extreme caution and to stay on official trails. To keep you oriented, trail maps are located at all trail access points, intersections and points of interest. There are colored posts along the trails, corresponding to colors on the maps, and letter symbols on the trail brochure to further assist you. Finally, yellow dots on trees or posts indicate that you are moving away from the Lodge or Visitor Center, and white dots mean you are returning.

Due to the park's fragile ecosystem, camping is prohibited in unauthorized areas and all rock climbing, rappelling or scrambling off trails is prohibited. Biking is not allowed on the hiking trails. For your own safety, you must be off the trails by dark. Alcohol is prohibited on all trails.

PLEASE NOTE! There are no washrooms or drinking water areas on the trails.

» Starved Rock Trail Map (PDF/185KB)

Matthiessen State Park

The park has five miles of well-marked, well-surfaced hiking trails for a relaxing walk or a vigorous hike. Large trail maps are located at all major trail intersections so visitors can choose a variety of routes. The upper area and bluff tops are easy hiking paths for the novice, but the trails into the interiors of the two dells may be difficult to negotiate, particularly during spring and early summer. Hikers must stay on marked trails, as steep cliffs and deep canyons can be dangerous. Hikers will marvel at the plant and animal life along the trails, and have an unparalleled view of geological wonders as they travel through the park. Alcohol is prohibited on all trails.

On the north side of the Dells Area entrance is a parking lot with a hitching post, which marks the access to nine miles of horseback riding trails. Horse rental is located on Route 71 a half mile west of Route 178. It is open weekends in April and November and Wednesday through Sunday from May through October. There are also six miles of cross-country ski trails with ski rental available weekends from December through March.

PLEASE NOTE! It is a state offense to remove any archaeological or Native American material from any Illinois state park.

» Matthiessen State Park (PDF/177KB)

Buffalo Rock State Park

The River Bluff Trail offers a walk high above the Illinois River with two observation decks with spectacular views of the Illinois River. The Woodland Trail provides an opportunity for close-up of the trees, plants and wildlife prospering in the park.

Natural Features - Titled "Effigy Tumuli" in tribute to the Native American burial grounds that inspired it, this unique "earth art" depicts five sculptures native to the Illinois River. The Effigy Tumuli was the vision of artist Michael Heizer who created the sculptures of a snake, turtle, catfish, frog and a water strider. To better appreciate the sculptures, it is best to look first from a distance and then walk around on top of them to better understand the effigies.

» Buffalo Rock Site Map (PDF/67KB)

I & M Canal State Trail

Just across the road from Buffalo Rock State Park is the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail Buffalo Rock Access area. This multi-purpose trail has been developed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Currently 61 miles in length, this trail offers visitors scenic hiking, bicycling and snowmobiling opportunities.

This area provides parking for approximately seven vehicles. Water and restroom facilities are not available at this site.

» I & M Canal State Trail Map - Overview (PDF/67KB)

» I & M Canal State Trail Map - Eastern (PDF/122KB)

» I & M Canal State Trail Map - Western (PDF/148KB)