Chicago to Starved Rock: The Perfect Day Trip Under $200

Starved Rock State Park is one of the best nature getaways near Chicago. Just 90 miles southwest of the city, it offers stunning canyons, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk or a more adventurous trek, the park has 18 beautiful canyons and plenty of lookout points with breathtaking views of the Illinois River.

It’s a free-entry park, making it a budget-friendly escape from city life. Plus, it’s open year-round, with each season offering something unique—lush greenery in spring and summer, vibrant foliage in fall, and frozen waterfalls in winter.

Table of Contents

1. Why Starved Rock is a Must-Visit

2. How to Get to Starved Rock from Chicago

3. Estimated Budget Breakdown (Stay Under $200!)

4. Top Things to Do at Starved Rock

5. Where to Eat: Budget vs. Local Dining

6. Best Time to Visit & What to Pack

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

8. Final Tips & Wrap-Up

 

Starved Rock State Park is one of Illinois’ top outdoor destinations, just 90 minutes from Chicago. Known for its towering sandstone canyons, seasonal waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails, it offers a perfect escape from city life.

• Breathtaking Views – Hike to overlooks with stunning sights of the Illinois River.
• Waterfalls & Canyons – Explore 18 canyons with waterfalls, best after rain or in spring.
• Year-Round Adventure – Enjoy lush greenery in summer, colorful foliage in fall, and frozen waterfalls in winter.
• Free & Budget-Friendly – No entry fee, making it a cost-effective day trip.

Whether you love hiking, photography, or just want a peaceful retreat in nature, Starved Rock is a must-visit for Chicagoans looking for an easy yet rewarding getaway.

How to Get to Starved Rock from Chicago

🚗 By Car (Best & Fastest Option)

• Distance: ~90 miles
• Time: 1.5 – 2 hours (depending on traffic)
• Best Route:
  • Take I-55 S from Chicago
  • Merge onto I-80 W toward Ottawa
  • Exit onto IL-178 S toward Starved Rock State Park
• Parking: Free at the Visitor Center

📍 Google Maps Directions: Click here
📍 Apple Maps Directions: Click here

💰 Estimated Cost:

• Gas: ~$30-$40 (round trip)

🚌 By Bus + Uber (Alternative Option Without a Car)

If you don’t have a car, you can take a Greyhound or Amtrak bus to Ottawa, IL, then take an Uber/Lyft to Starved Rock.

Step 1: Take a Bus from Chicago to Ottawa

• Greyhound or Peoria Charter Coach
• Departs from: Chicago Union Station
• Duration: ~1.5 hours
• Cost: ~$15-$30 (one way)

Step 2: Take an Uber/Lyft from Ottawa to Starved Rock

• Distance: ~10 miles
• Time: ~15 minutes
• Cost: ~$20 one way

💰 Total Estimated Cost: ~$70 round trip

🚙 Car Rentals (If You Don’t Own a Car)

If you don’t have a car, consider renting one for a day:

• Turo (Peer-to-Peer Car Rental): Starts at ~$50/day
• Enterprise/Zipcar: ~$70-$100/day

✅ Best Option?

• If you own a car or can carpool, driving is the cheapest and easiest way.
• If you don’t drive, a bus + Uber is an option, but it’s more expensive and less flexible.

Estimated Budget Breakdown (Stay Under $200!)

A day trip to Starved Rock State Park from Chicago can easily fit within a $200 budget. Below is a detailed breakdown of estimated costs, from transportation to food and activities.

🚗 Transportation Costs

• By Car (Most Cost-Effective)

  • Gas (round trip, ~180 miles): $30-$40
  • Parking: Free
  • Total Cost: $30-$40 (cheaper if split with friends)

• By Bus + Uber (Alternative Option)

  • Greyhound/Peoria Charter Bus (Chicago to Ottawa, round trip): $30-$60
  • Uber/Lyft from Ottawa to Starved Rock (round trip): $40-$50
  • Total Cost: $70-$110

💰 Best Value: Driving is the most affordable option, especially if splitting gas with friends.

🎟️ Entry Fees & Activities

• Park Entrance: FREE
• Guided Tour (Optional): $30-$50 (history tour, waterfall tour, etc.)
• Kayak Rental (Optional): $40-$50 (2-3 hours)
• Bike Rental (Optional): $20-$30

💰 Cost Range: $0 – $50, depending on optional activities.

🍽️ Food & Drink Costs

• Pack Your Own Lunch (Best Budget Option): $10-$15
• Eat at Starved Rock Lodge Restaurant: $15-$30 per meal
• Water & Snacks: $5-$10

💰 Cost Range: $10 – $40, depending on whether you bring food or eat out.

🎒 Extras & Miscellaneous Costs

• Souvenirs: $10-$30
• Hiking Gear (if needed): $20-$50 (e.g., new hiking shoes, backpack, etc.)
• Emergency Expenses: $10

💰 Cost Range: $10 – $50, depending on personal purchases.

💰 Total Estimated Cost Per Person

✅ Possible to do the trip under $100 if you drive, bring your own food, and skip paid activities.
💰 A full experience with tours, kayaking, and dining out stays within $200.

Top Things to Do at Starved Rock

Starved Rock State Park offers a mix of scenic hikes, waterfalls, wildlife, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or adventure seeker, here are the must-do activities during your visit.

🥾 Best Hiking Trails & Viewpoints

Starved Rock has 13 miles of trails with stunning canyon views, waterfalls, and overlooks.

Top Trails to Explore:

• Starved Rock Overlook (0.3 miles, easy) – Best panoramic view of the Illinois River.
• St. Louis Canyon (2.1 miles, moderate) – A popular hike leading to a beautiful waterfall.
• Wildcat Canyon (2 miles, moderate) – The tallest waterfall in the park (125 feet).
• French Canyon (0.8 miles, easy) – Short hike with a seasonal waterfall.
• LaSalle Canyon (4.3 miles, moderate) – A longer trail with a secluded waterfall and rock formations.

🔹 Tip: Visit in spring or after rainfall to see waterfalls at their best!

🌊 Waterfalls & Canyons You Can’t Miss

Starved Rock is famous for 18 canyons, many with seasonal waterfalls.

⭐ Best Waterfalls to Visit:

• Wildcat Canyon – Highest waterfall (125 ft).
• LaSalle Canyon – Most scenic with a waterfall overhanging the rocks.
• French Canyon – Closest waterfall to the Visitor Center.

🔹 Tip: In winter, many waterfalls freeze, creating stunning ice formations!

🚣‍♂️ Kayaking & Outdoor Activities (Optional Add-ons)

If you want more adventure beyond hiking:

• Kayaking on the Illinois River – Rentals available for $40-$50 (2-3 hours).
• Boat Tours – Seasonal guided boat tours of the river (~$30 per person).
• Fishing & Wildlife Watching – Spot bald eagles in winter!

🔹 Tip: Book kayak rentals or boat tours in advance, especially in summer!

📸 Best Spots for Photography

Starved Rock has breathtaking landscapes, perfect for photography.

📍 Top Instagram-Worthy Spots:

• Starved Rock Overlook – Best sunrise/sunset views.
• Wildcat Canyon – Iconic waterfall shot.
• Lover’s Leap Overlook – Stunning river views.
• French Canyon – Beautiful canyon walls + seasonal waterfall.

🔹 Tip: Arrive early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting!

✅ Summary: Must-Do Activities

✅ Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or just sightseeing, Starved Rock has something for everyone!

Where to Eat: Budget vs. Local Dining

🍎 Budget-Friendly: Pack Your Own Food

Bringing your own food is the cheapest option. Pack sandwiches, snacks, and water for a picnic at the Visitor Center or along the trails.

🍽️ Local Dining Near Starved Rock

• Starved Rock Lodge (Inside the park) – Classic American food. $$ 📍 Google Maps
• Nonie’s Bakery & Café (10 min away) – Breakfast, pastries, coffee. $ 📍 Google Maps
• The Lone Buffalo Brewery (15 min away) – Farm-to-table meals & craft beer. $$ 📍 Google Maps
• Jamie’s OutPost Parlor (5 min away) – Pizza, sandwiches, ice cream. $ 📍 Google Maps

✅ Budget travelers: Pack your food.
✅ Casual dining: Jamie’s OutPost or Nonie’s Bakery.
✅ Full meal: Starved Rock Lodge or The Lone Buffalo.

Best Time to Visit & What to Pack

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March-May): Best for waterfalls and blooming nature.
• Summer (June-August): Great for hiking, but can be crowded.
• Fall (September-November): Stunning fall foliage, best for photography.
• Winter (December-February): Unique frozen waterfalls and fewer crowds.

🔹 Best Overall: Fall for colors, spring for waterfalls.

🎒 What to Pack

• Clothing: Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate layers.
• Essentials: Sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, hat.
• Food & Drink: Water, snacks, packed lunch (if on a budget).
• Extras: Camera, portable charger, small backpack.

✅ Tip: Wear hiking boots for uneven trails and bring extra water in summer!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

🛻 Can I visit Starved Rock without a car?

Yes! Take a bus to Ottawa, IL, then an Uber/Lyft to the park. However, having a car is more convenient and budget-friendly.

🐶 Is Starved Rock pet-friendly?

Yes, dogs are allowed on trails but must be on a leash. Some areas (like the Lodge restaurant) do not allow pets inside.

🕒 How long should I spend at Starved Rock?

A half-day (4-5 hours) is enough for 2-3 trails, but a full day lets you explore more and enjoy a meal.

💵 Is there an entrance fee?

No, Starved Rock is free to enter and explore! Some guided tours or activities (like kayaking) may have costs.

🚻 Are restrooms available?

Yes, restrooms are at the Visitor Center, Lodge, and major trailheads. Some remote trails have no facilities.

📅 When is the best time to visit?

• Spring (March-May) for waterfalls.
• Fall (Sept-Nov) for foliage.
• Winter (Dec-Feb) for frozen waterfalls.

🥾 Are the trails difficult?

Most trails are easy to moderate. Some (like LaSalle or Wildcat Canyon) have steep areas but are manageable for beginners.

🍽️ Can I bring my own food?

Yes! Picnic areas are available, or you can eat at Starved Rock Lodge or nearby restaurants.

Final Tips & Wrap-Up

✅ Final Tips for a Great Trip

• Arrive Early: Parking fills up fast, especially on weekends.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Trails can be uneven—hiking boots are best.
• Check the Weather: Rain can make trails muddy, and some waterfalls dry up in summer.
• Pack Water & Snacks: There are no food stops on the trails.
• Plan Your Route: Pick 2-3 key trails in advance to make the most of your day.
• Respect Nature: Stay on trails and carry out any trash.

🎯 Is Starved Rock Worth It?

Absolutely! For free entry, breathtaking views, waterfalls, and scenic hiking, Starved Rock is one of the best day trips from Chicago—and can easily be done for under $200.

🚗 Best For: Hikers, nature lovers, photographers, and anyone needing a quick escape from the city.