Starved Rock supposedly received its name from an ancient war between two Native American tribes, the Fox and the Illinwek, who warred amongst themselves for years. According to the legend, the Fox finally gained the upper hand, and drove the Illinwek up onto the butte that makes up the unmistakable landmark of Starved Rock, and surrounded the tribe, keeping them there until the Illinwek finally starved to death. Supposedly, there were even marks on the sandstone where the Fox cut the ropes that the Illinwek used to try and lower buckets to get water to keep themselves alive. (I never did manage to see those marks, myself.) The grisly tale is one I, myself, heard many times growing up in Peru, in the shadow of the Rock.
Nowadays, however, Starved Rock is a much more benevolent thing, with the glorious Lodge, new information center, and many activities available during the spring, summer, and fall. They offer horseback riding, fishing, and of course the many, many trails available for wandering throughout the park. Year-round, there is the Lodge, and the rooms for visitors to stay in, with cabins available for the more adventurous.
The Lodge itself is a treasure, with its huge ceilings, stuffed animals to gaze upon, and a most magnificent fireplace. Even in the coldest Illinois winter, the Lodge provides a place to retreat to and enjoy a warm cup of coffee (or spiced apple cider!) and good company away from the inclement weather that stalks the plains states. They also offer a cafe that can provide you with snacks during the day, and an amazing restaurant for more refined palates to dine upon in the afternoon and evening.
Then there is the gift shop. I have often bemoaned the fact that I am not independently wealthy when we visit Starved Rock, for the clothing and various trinkets within the shop tempt me every single time I go there. From sweaters made of recycled paper that are so soft you would never believe their origins, to books discussing the local flora and fauna in detail, there are always new and amazing things to purchase. Then, of course, there are the usual offerings of t-shirts, sweatshirts, jewelry, and things made by local artists and artisans. Everything temps the hands and eyes there.
Truthfully, nothing compares to visiting Starved Rock in the fall, when the weather is crisp and cool, the trees are a riot of yellow, red, gold and brown, and you can wander the trails and see the various waterfalls and other little gems hidden all about the Park, and then return to the Lodge and indulge in a spiced apple cider and warm up by the fireplace. It is something to be experienced.
Finally, there is a little bar, and a patio where, in good weather, you can enjoy your meal or snack outside and take in the lovely view offered while you delight in the utterly enchanting place that is Starved Rock State Park.
