Wondering where to stay around Starved Rock? You have come to the right place. Here we share a list of the best places to stay near Starved Rock.
The state park is surrounded by several little towns where you find no-frills hotels and charming B&B’s.
In addition to that, for those who want to have the real countryside experience, you also have a selection of quaint bungalows. With a spacious living area, fireplace, BBQ, and outdoor firepit these family accommodations are the ideal setting for a friend or family trip.
We shouldn’t forget the Starved Rock water park at the Grand Bear Resort. This family-friendly hotel is certain to keep the little ones enjoyed.
Read on to discover the full list of best places to stay near Starved Rock.
In a hurry, these are the best places to stay near Starved Rock
- Best place to stay in Starved Rock: Starved Rock lodge and conference center
- Best hotel near Starved Rock: Hampton Inn Ottawa
- Best resort near Starved Rock: Grand Bear Resort
- Best cabin at Starved Rock: Log cabin on 25 acres
- Best bed and breakfast in Starved Rock: Brightwood Inn
- Best dog-friendly hotel near Starved Rock: Caribou cottage
Table of Contents
Overview of the best places to stay near Starved rock park
Here’s a comparison table of all the hotels, resorts, cabins and B&B’s that we cover in this post. Read on for a short description of all the properties.
Best places to stay near Starved Rock State Park
| Type | Extra amenities | Town | Price | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Starved Rock lodge and conference center | Lodge |
|
Oglesby |
$$$ | |
|
Private cabin with huge whirlpool | Cabin for 2 |
|
Tonica |
$$$ | |
|
Log cabin on 25 acres | Cabin for 7 |
|
Oglesby |
$$$$$ | |
|
Hampton Inn Ottawa | Hotel |
|
Ottawa |
$$ | |
|
Super 8 by Wyndham Ottawa | Hotel |
|
Ottawa |
$ | |
|
Grand Bear Resort | Resort |
|
Utica |
$$ | |
|
Brightwood Inn | B&B |
|
Oglesby |
$$ | |
|
Caribou cottage | Boutique hotel |
|
Utica |
$$$$ |
Can you stay in Starved Rock?
Do you want to stay inside the park? No problem, your wishes come true.
The Starved Rock Lodge is located within the park’s boundaries. Those who want to stay at the heart of the park can choose from a combination of historic cabins and quaint and modern hotel rooms.
Starved Rock Lodge
History buffs will love staying at the Starved Rock Lodge.
The lodge was originally constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps around 1930.
The main building along with the original cabins are officially registered as National Historic Places. They have been modernized but with great respect to their original charm.
There’re 69 rooms in the hotel building and 16 cabins.
The lodge has a restaurant for indoor and outdoor dining, a bar, and a fast-food joint. Guest are welcome to use the indoor pool where they will also find a jacuzzi and 2 saunas.
There’s live music every friday night.
Booking rating: 9.2
Extra amenities:
- Wi-Fi
- Air conditioning
- Parking
- Swimming pool
- Hot tub
Check prices and availability:
Booking.com
Lodging near Starved Rock
There are also plenty of opportunities to stay outside the park. From cabins to hotels, resorts and B&B’s.
Read on to discover the different possibilities.
Cabins near Starved Rock
Here we share a couple of amazing Starved rock cabins.
Private cabin with huge whirlpool near Starved Rock
Entire cabin hosted by Terisa
- 2 guests, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, 1 bath
This cozy cabin is only a 10-minute drive from Starved Rock and is also well situated to visit its neighbor, Matthiessen State Park.
The place has everything you could want for a romantic couples getaway. You can spend fairy-tale evenings on the porch swing and have a lovely time together in the hot tub.
In the cabin you will find a full-size kitchen, a spacious living area and a roomy bathroom with tub.
Most guests do however spend most time outside. They love the outdoor fire pit, picnic table and BBQ.
Since there is no Wi-Fi, this is the perfect place to disconnect and completely unwind in nature.
Teresia is a very friendly and accommodating host.
VRBO Rating: 4.9
Extra Amenities:
- Air conditioning
- Heating
- Indoor fireplace
- Hot tub
- Outdoor firepit
- BBQ
- Parking on-premises
- Board Games
- Video library
Check prices and availability:
VRBO
Log cabin on 25 acres
Entire cabin hosted by Shelby – Pemier host
- 7 guests, 3 bedrooms, 5 beds, 2 baths
This large log cabin is ideal if you’re planning a family trip to Starved Rock.
With a large living area with a wood-burning stove, 3 bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms it has all you need for homey evenings with your near-ones. At the same time, everybody has their privacy and comfort.
There is a fully-equipped kitchen to prepare family meals.
At 18 miles Starved Rock is a short-drive away. Buffalo Rock State Park is equally close and with 2 nearby wildlife and fish areas, this cabin is also great for those avid anglers.
Privacy is key at this cabin. 25 square acres with nothing but trees ensure a peaceful stay.
The cabin has no WiFi and cell reception is limited. This allows true solitude but it may be something to consider if you need this for work or if you want to stay in touch with family.
Guests say this place is excellent for quality-time with friends and family and they love the the giant deck at the back of the house that leads into the woods.
VRBO Rating: 5.0
Extra Amenities:
- Air conditioning
- Heating
- Parking
- Wood stove with free firewood
- Outside fire pit
- Washer & dryer
Check prices and availability:
VRBO
Didn’t find what you were looking for? Here we share more amazing cabins near Starved Rock. If you are looking for more VRBOs and Airbnbs near Starved Rock, click here.
Hotels near Starved Rock with hot tub
If you prefer staying in a hotel near Starved Rock, have a look at the list below.
Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center
For those who prefer a hotel setting, the Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center is an ideal choice.
The hotel has incorporated a number of aspects of traditional log cabins and country living, allowing guests to enjoy the ‘authentic experience’ with all the convenience of a hotel.
It is located a short walk from the Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center.
There are a number of on-site activities to be enjoyed. The lodge organizes guided tours, has live music on weekends and guests can treat themselves to relaxing massages.
There is also an indoor heated pool with a hot tub and saunas on-site, perfect for relaxing after a long day of hiking.
The rooms come with a private bathroom as well as a coffee machine.
Free Wi-Fi is available, although some guests stated that the Wi-Fi signal is patchy.
Breakfast is provided and can be a great way to avoid the extra hassle of cooking yet another meal while on holiday.
Previous guests enjoyed the convenient location and activities.
Booking rating: 9.2
Extra amenities:
- Wi-Fi
- Air conditioning
- Parking
- Swimming pool
- Hot tub
Check prices and availability:
Booking.com
Hampton Inn Ottawa – Starved Rock Area
This inn is well-located around 19 miles from Starved Rock State Park. It is close to a number of nearby restaurants and shops, allowing for easy access to necessary amenities.
Read Also:
Buffalo Rock State Park is also around 22 miles from the hotel.
The inn is well-equipped with both an indoor pool and jacuzzi available.
There is also a fitness center on-site, allowing guests to keep up with regular workouts on top of the outside activities that are plentiful in the starved rock area.
Coin laundry facilities are also available on-site.
The rooms of the Hampton Inn are well-furnished with a work desk, coffee maker, and cable TV. Free Wi-Fi is provided and is reliable.
Hot breakfast is available daily and included in the fare. Many previous guests mentioned that they enjoyed the breakfast.
Previous guests also enjoyed the great service and friendly staff, along with the convenience of the location.
Booking rating: 9
Extra amenities:
- Wi-Fi
- Air conditioning
- Breakfast included
- Fitness center
- Pool with hot tub
- Coin laundry
- Free parking
- Dog-friendly
Check prices and availability:
Booking.com
Super 8 by Wyndham Ottawa Starved Rock
Super 8 by Wyndham is located in Ottawa, Illinois, around 10 miles from Starved Rock State Park.
This makes it around a 15 minute drive to the park.
There is easy access to a range of restaurants, cafes, and shops surrounding the hotel.
Being located just off the interstate makes it easy to access when driving to and from locations.
The hotel provides large rooms with a private bathroom and a desk for working. There is also a flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi in all rooms.
The hotel offers a free continental breakfast. Because good days start with coffee, there is also a coffee maker available in all rooms.
There are family rooms available. Vending machines and an ATM on-site make traveling with a family a little easier.
Previous guests enjoyed the location and the friendly service offered at this hotel.
Booking rating: 8.8
Extra amenities:
- Wi-Fi
- Air conditioning
- Breakfast included
- Free parking
- Laundry facilities
Check prices and availability:
Booking.com
Resorts near Starved Rock
If you prefer staying in a resort near Starved Rock, have a look at the below Grand Bear Resort.
Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock
Look no further if kid-friendly accommodation is what you need. The Grand Bear Resort has everything to keep the whole family entertained. The waterpark features several slides, a wave pool, and an oversized hot tub.
You can also challenge your travel buddies to a game of mini golf.
At the resort, you find a mix of hotel rooms, 2-storied villas, and cabins. The well-appointed luxury Starved Rock cabins sleep up to 8 people. Both the cabins and the villas have a fully-equipped kitchen and a whirlpool tub.
The hotel rooms can accommodate 2 to 6 people. Some of them have a whirlpool.
You do not need to stay at the resort to visit the Starved Rock waterpark. Guests are also welcome.
Booking rating: 7.2/10
Extra Amenities:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Air conditioning
- Free parking on-premises
- Indoor fireplace (cabins, villas, and select rooms)
- Spa bath in select rooms
- Water park
Check prices and availability:
Booking.com
Dog friendly hotels near Starved Rock
If you are traveling with your fury friend, have a look at the below mentioned pet-friendly hotels and B&B’s near Starved Rock.
Hampton Inn Ottawa-Starved Rock area
The above-mentioned Hampton Inn is a low-key hotel with solid service. You can find more info, including some of the key amenities of this property, here.
The hotel will welcome your pet as long as you give prior notice. An extra charge may apply.
Check prices and availability:
Booking.com
Brightwood Inn
If you are looking for a dog-friendly accommodation near Starved Rock, look no further.
Brightwood Inn is an amazing bed and breakfast.
Guests love the clean, spacious, and charmingly decorated rooms that feature a flat-screen tv, tea, a coffee maker, and an indoor fireplace. Each morning a delicious hot breakfast is served. The breakfast is included in your fare.
The owners love animals and will happily welcome your pet as long as you tell them in advance. An extra cleaning fee may apply.
The house has no elevator and some rooms are on the second floor. Something to keep in mind when booking if you are less mobile.
Booking rating: 9.6/10
Extra Amenities:
- Free Wi-Fi (somewhat less reliable)
- Air conditioning
- Breakfast included
- Free parking on-premises
- Indoor fireplace
- Spa bath in select rooms
- Dog-friendly
Check prices and availability:
Booking.com
Landers house
Landers house is a small boutique hotel with 7 rooms. One of them, the Caribou cottage, is a designated cottage for couples who are traveling with their furry friend.
The cottage features a queen size bed, a jacuzzi, fireplace and screened-in porch.
Breakfast is included in the price.
Guest love the cabin and find it very cozy, clean and well organized.
Extra Amenities:
- Wi-Fi
- Jacuzzi
- Fireplace
- Screened-in porch
- Keurig coffee maker
- Smart TV
- Dog-friendly
Check prices and availability:
VRBO
This boutique hotel has several other rooms. They’re all decorated differently. If you aren’t traveling with your pet, check out the other rooms here.
What towns are close to Starved Rock?
Wondering which towns are close to Starved Rock State Park?
Here is a description of the towns located closest to the park including the hotels that are located there.
Ottawa
Ottawa defines itself as being in the heart of Starved Rock Country.
It’s a vibrant tourist town with a welcoming hometown feel. Visitors can indulge in both outdoor as well as cultural activities. Located at the confluence of the Fox and Illinois river there’s an abundance of watersport activities to choose from.
Exploring downtown is a true delight thanks to the many colorful murals.
Ottawa serves as a hub not only for Starved Rock State Park. When staying here you can also visit Matthiessen and Illini State Park and Buffalo Rock, the closest of the pack, is right next door.
Hotels at Ottawa
Here we share a list of the best places to stay in Ottawa.
- Super 8 by Wyndham
- Hampton Inn by Hilton
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott
- Comfort Inn
- Quality Inn
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites
North Utica
North Utica, usually referred to as just Utica, is a small town rich in history.
The original town was located on the banks of the Illinois River but moved further north when the Illinois-Michigan canal was completed. That explains the official, but seldom used, name, North Utica.
Utica’s prime industry used to be brick making. The mines are still open but these days it’s more popularly known as the gateway to Starved Rock.
Hotels in North Utica
Landers house
Landers house welcomes you for a quaint stay. The 7 theme styled rooms can be booked on VRBO.
- Safari suite: 2 person room suite with jacuzzi and fireplace.
- Caribou cottage: Pet-friendly cottage for 2 persons with queen size bed, jacuzzi, fireplace, and screened-in porch.
- Serengeti cottage: African-themed 2 person cottage with queen size bed and jacuzzi, fireplace, and attached screened-in porch.
- Log cabin: 2 person standard room with queen size bed.
- Mountain Lodge: 2 person standard room with queen size bed.
- Creel cottage: 2 person cottage with queen-size bed jacuzzi, fireplace, and attached screened-in porch.
- La Noche cottage: 2 person cottage with queen size bed, jacuzzi, fireplace, and attached screened-in porch. The led lights in the ceiling simulate a starry sky.
Grand bear resort
If you’re visiting with children make sure to check out the Grand Bear resort which features a complete waterpark with a lazy river, tidal pool, and several slides.
KOA campground
If you prefer staying on a campsite have a look at the KOA campground in North Utica. Here you can book a site for a tent or an RV.
Oglesby
Oglesby is a small town with only about 3,500 inhabitants. It’s situated next to Matthiessen State Park, which also places it in a good location to visit Starved Rock.
If you plan on canoeing or rafting you can leave from the Vermillion River boat ramp, located off Hwy 23, right next to Oglesby.
Best places to stay in Oglesby Il
Peru
Peru is located north of the Illinois river, next to its twin city LaSalle. These two towns form the terminus of the Illinois-Michigan canal.
Peru got its heydays when the Illinois-Michigan canal was originally completed. At that time the city was largely situated next to water but as the river diminished in importance the city moved up the bluff to minimize the impact of the recurrent floods.
Peru is one of the larger cities in the area and here you will find several hotels. Most are located a little outside downtown, close to the I-80, and minutes away from a large mall.
It takes about 15 minutes to reach Starved Rock.
Where to stay in Peru Il
- Super 8 by Wyndham Peru
- Quality Inn Peru
- Hampton Inn and suites Peru
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott
- La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Peru
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites
LaSalle
This was the official westernmost terminus of the Illinois-Michigan canal. The town prospered when trade along the canal was flourishing.
The city, together with Peru, was nicknamed Zinc city back then. The Hegeler Carus Mansion showcases the welfare of those days. It was constructed in 1876 for Edward C. Hegeler who was a partner in the Matthiessen Hegeler Zinc Company. It is open for visits.
It also possible to take a leisurely boat trip along a restored part of the Illinois-Michigan canal on a replica of the original canal boat “The Volunteer”.
There are no hotels in LaSalle
Conclusion
Starved Rock can be an ideal day trip but the area also offers plenty of things to do for a longer vacation. From hiking to chasing waterfalls and wine tasting, we share a bunch of inspiration right here.
If you are visiting Starved Rock in winter, click here.
Now that you have this list of excellent accommodations, nothing stops you from booking a longer stay for a family getaway or friends trip.
Have a great trip!