information provided by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (August 14, 2020) – Following severe weather that included heavy rains and 80 to 100-mile-per-hour winds, main areas and trails at Starved Rock State Park will be closed until further notice to clear downed trees, limbs, and debris. Matthiessen State Park, which also experienced significant damage, will remain fully closed until further notice.
“Roads and trails at both parks sustained a significant amount of damage—mostly from downed trees and limbs—during the derecho which swept through northern Illinois,” said Von Bandy, director of the Office of Land Management for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). “As our staff continues to clear main areas and trails at both parks, we’ll reassess the possibility of reopening these areas of the park.”
While trails, picnic and fishing areas, and the boat ramp are closed, the Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center remains open. Visitors who have reservations at the lodge are asked to use Starved Rock’s south entrance off of Illinois Rte. 71.
The campground at Starved Rock State Park also is open, though campers who wish to change their reservations are welcome to do so by accessing their reservations using ReserveAmerica.com.
Several state parks, fish and wildlife areas and recreational areas across the state experienced various levels of weather-related damage. Guests interested in visiting specific parks should call ahead to check closures and availability of recreational opportunities.
