Dog-Friendly Guide to Starved Rock
Are you a Chicagoland local looking to take your dog outside of the city?
I’ve created a guide that provides all the information you’ll need to visit Starved Rock with your dog. Visiting Starved Rock has been a tradition in my family my whole life.
We spent many weekends visiting as well as spending days at the park during summer camp. Starved Rock is a great getaway to go explore with your dog and get outdoors. This guide will show you a local’s perspective on everything you need to see and do in Starved Rock with your dog.
A brief history on Starved Rock
The name of the park is believed to be from a Native American legend dating back to the late 1600’s. Before Starved Rock became a State Park, it was privately owned and operated as a resort. During the 1930’s the Civilian Conservation Corps helped build the lodge and visitor center still in use today.
Since becoming a State Park, Starved Rock is now open year round with 14 trails and 18 canyons to explore. I think the best time to visit with your dog is in the summer and fall since most of the trails are open by then. If you’re a fan of waterfalls, consider visiting in the spring since the snow would have melted so the water will be flowing.
What hikes should I take my dog on in Starved Rock?
All of the trails within Starved Rock are dog-friendly. The park does have a strict rule that all dogs must be on a leash within the park. Heads up that many of the trails do include stairs.
The Lover’s Leap hike offers the best view of the Illinois River. It’s a little under two miles out and back from the parking lot.
This is probably the most photographed canyon in the park. If you’re planning on visiting during the weekend, plan on hiking this trail first to avoid the crowds.
A great hike along the Illinois River. Be mindful of the water levels when you’re hiking with your pup.
🥾 Starved Rock and Sandstone Point
This is probably my favorite trail in the park since it’s the longest and it covers most of the highlights of the Park including Lover’s Leap.
What nearby hotels are dog friendly?
As luck would have it, there are several dog-friendly hotels within 30 minutes of Starved Rock. Here are my top recommendations:
- Comfort Inn Ottawa: There is a $25 pet fee per night to stay here.
- Fairfield Inn Ottawa: There is a $50 pet fee per night to stay here.
- Quality Inn Mendota: There is a $25 pet fee per night to stay here and a 60 pound limit.
- Kishauwau Cabin: A wonderful spot if you want to have a place to yourself!
- Starved Rock Lodge: Their dog-friendly spaces are limited but great.
Where to Eat Near Starved Rock
Most of the establishments near Starved Rock are not dog riendly. Some of the restaurants have outdoor patios, I usually call the day of my visit to see if they are OK with me bringing Smitty to sit outside.
👉 Nonie’s Bakery – An institution in the area for pastries and baked goods.
👉 Joy and Ed’s – They offer lunch and dinner service on most days!
👉 Twisty Freeze – Who doesn’t love ice cream?? They love to give Smitty a mini cone.
Hikes Worth Visiting Outside of Starved Rock
🥾 Matthiessen Park River tTail
I love to take Smitty on this trail when Starved Rock is busy. The trail is nicely managed and the leaves are beautiful to see while hiking in the fall.
This is another great hike outside of the park if you’re looking to beat the crowds. It is known to flood so keep an eye on the weather to make sure you are dressed properly before hitting the trail.
Final Thoughts
Starved Rock is a great dog-friendly getaway any time of year. If hiking with your dog is one of your favorite activities, Starved Rock is a great place to explore using this dog-friendly guide. Now it’s time to start planning your own adventure, Cheers!
