Gary to Starved Rock State Park

Updated: March 14, 2024 11:58 AM

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Gary to Starved Rock State Park

Language

The official language of the United States is English. However, Spanish is also widely spoken in Illinois, especially in the Chicago area. You should be able to get by with English in most situations, but it may be helpful to learn a few basic Spanish phrases if you plan on visiting areas with a large Hispanic population.

Currency

The official currency of the United States is the US dollar ($). You can exchange your foreign currency at banks, currency exchanges, or hotels. Credit cards are widely accepted in the United States.

Distance

The distance from Gary, Indiana to Starved Rock State Park is approximately 100 miles (160 kilometers). The drive takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes without traffic.

How to Reach

There are several ways to get from Gary, Indiana to Starved Rock State Park:

• By car: The most convenient way to get to Starved Rock State Park is by car. You can take I-94 west to I-80 west to exit 70 (Ottawa). From there, take Route 71 south for about 10 miles to the park entrance.
• By train: Amtrak offers train service from Chicago Union Station to Ottawa, Illinois. From Ottawa, you can take a taxi or bus to Starved Rock State Park.
• By bus: Greyhound offers bus service from Chicago to Ottawa. From Ottawa, you can take a taxi or bus to Starved Rock State Park.

Expenses

The cost of your trip to Starved Rock State Park will vary depending on your travel style and budget. However, here are some general guidelines:

• Accommodation: You can find a variety of hotels and motels in the Ottawa area, with prices ranging from $50 to $200 per night. There are also several campgrounds in the park, with sites available for $20 to $30 per night.
• Food: There are several restaurants and cafes in the Ottawa area, with prices ranging from $10 to $20 per meal. You can also bring your own food and cook it at one of the park's picnic areas.
• Activities: There are a variety of activities available at Starved Rock State Park, including hiking, biking, boating, and fishing. Most activities are free, but there are some fees for certain activities, such as boat rentals and guided tours.

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Starved Rock State Park is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. However, the park is open year-round, and there are activities to enjoy in every season.

What to Eat

There are several great places to eat in the Ottawa area, including:

• Starved Rock Cafe: This casual cafe is located in the park and offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups.
• The Lodge at Starved Rock: This upscale restaurant is located in the park and offers a fine dining experience.
• Ottawa Tap House: This gastropub is located in downtown Ottawa and offers a variety of craft beers and American cuisine.
• La Vaca Loca: This Mexican restaurant is located in downtown Ottawa and offers a variety of authentic Mexican dishes.

Where to Go

There are several things to see and do in Starved Rock State Park, including:

• Hiking: There are over 13 miles of hiking trails in the park, ranging from easy to challenging. Some of the most popular trails include the St. Louis Canyon Trail, the LaSalle Canyon Trail, and the French Canyon Trail.
• Biking: There are over 10 miles of bike trails in the park, which are perfect for a leisurely ride or a more challenging mountain biking adventure.
• Boating: There are several lakes and rivers in the park, which are perfect for boating. You can rent canoes, kayaks, and rowboats from the park concessionaire.
• Fishing: There are several fishing spots in the park, where you can fish for bass, bluegill, catfish, and crappie.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Starved Rock State Park:

1. What is the entrance fee for Starved Rock State Park? The entrance fee is $10 per vehicle. Annual passes are also available.
2. Are dogs allowed in Starved Rock State Park? Yes, dogs are allowed on a leash in most areas of the park. However, they are not allowed in buildings or on the beaches.
3. Is there a restaurant in Starved Rock State Park? Yes, there is a restaurant located in the park called the Starved Rock Cafe.
4. Are there any campgrounds in Starved Rock State Park? Yes, there are several campgrounds in the park, with sites available for $20 to $30 per night.
5. What is the best time to visit Starved Rock State Park? The best time to visit Starved Rock State Park is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best.

*Distance calculation may be aerial distance.

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