Explore Small Towns and State Parks on This Charming Day Trip in Illinois

At 298 acres, Buffalo Rock State Park is certainly small, but that doesn’t make it any less scenic or wondrous as larger state parks. With its location on the banks of the Illinois River, water views are an obvious draw, but what’s even more spectacular are the vistas from atop the bluff overlooking the river.

Of course, you’ll have to hike while you’re there; take the 2.5-mile River Bluff Trail Loop and use AllTrail+ as your guide along the way.

After taking in the scenery, it’s time to head into La Salle where you can visit the Hegeler Carus Mansion, a National Landmark built in 1876, as well as the I & M Canal Visitors Center and Canal Boat where you can grab a bite to eat at Lock 16 Cafe. The cafe is open 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. daily and serves both breakfast and lunch.

With 18 canyons and 13 miles of trails throughout its 2,630 acres, you could spend a whole week here and not see all of Starved Rock State Park. And with its location on the Illinois River, you can just imagine the views you’ll have! If you’d like, you can stay overnight at either the Starved Rock State Park Campground or the nearby Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock, the latter of which has its own indoor waterpark.

Another park that’s home to several canyons, including the Upper and Lower Dells, is Matthiessen State Park. While not as popular as its neighbor, Starved Rock State Park, you’ll experience fewer crowds here as you hike through its five miles of trails or go horseback riding. This state park is a peaceful escape into the wilderness.

Now it’s time to explore the town of Oglesby, Illinois. Located on the Vermilion River, a tributary of the Illinois River, the Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway goes right through town. Another point of interest in Oglesby is the Shippingsport Bridge which spans the Illinois River and connects Oglesby to La Salle. If you’re looking for dining options during your visit, you can grab a quick bite at The Rootbeer Stand or have a sit-down meal at either Claudettes or CortiLeno’s.

I love a good overnight stay somewhere super cool, like the modernized historic Schoolhouse Canyon. Located a mere mile from the entrance to Starved Rock State Park and a few minutes away from both Matthiessen and Buffalo Rock State Parks, a stay here puts guests in the heart of some of the best nature in Illinois. This one-room schoolhouse is set in a rural area with scenic views; inside the home you’ll find three beds, one bathroom with a spa-like shower, a full kitchen, and a cozy living room area.