One of America’s Most Popular State Parks Is Right Here in Illinois

Why Illinois State Parks Deserve More Love

National Parks get most of the attention, love, and headlines, but state parks shouldn't be overlooked, especially this one in Illinois.

Starved Rock’s National Recognition in 2025

Travel + Leisure just listed the ten most visited state parks according to Google Maps so far in 2025, and this is one of the finest in America, and it's totally not far from Rockford. It's so close, you could probably go there today. You probably went there at some point this summer.

READ MORE: New Treehouses In Starved Rock Offer Unique Getaway

Perfect for All Seasons, Especially Fall

It's beautiful in the spring and summer, and considering it's such a great place for a nice hike or walk, it's bound to be busy even in the fall months, too.

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Ranked Among the Top Parks in the U.S.

I'm talking about Starved Rock State Park, which was ranked as the fourth most visited park in America for 2025.

How Starved Rock Stacks Up Against Other Parks

Silver Falls State Park in Oregon and Liberty State Park in New Jersey ranked third and second, respectively, but Watkins Glen in New York took the top spot as the most frequently visited place.

READ MORE: Best Hiking Trails In Illinois | Starved Rock State Park

What You’ll Find at Starved Rock State Park

While those three state parks are great, Starved Rock is the real option for us, Voted the #1 Attraction in the State of Illinois according to their website, the park is open daily from 7 am to sunset, and it features 13 miles of trails to explore with gorgeous views, fishing boating and plenty of places to kick back and relax.

Why You Should Visit Now

So sure, Watkins Glen and Silver Falls are nice, but Starved Rock is practically in our backyard. You know what to do. Grab a granola bar, shove it in your backpack, and hit the trails. You're halfway to being a professional hiker.