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| One of the more frequent questions that we are asked here at Starved Rock Outfitters is, "Just what is a "Starved Rock" anyway?" Well, the dirty little secret is this - we have locked a two-pound chunk of Devil's Lake quartzite in the broom closet for about 6 months now and it's mighty hungry! How could we do such a thing!? Now that the truth is finally out, we will probably have the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Minerals picketing in our parking lot. Poor little starved rock... |  |
| Nah, just kidding. Our name really comes from our close proximity (1/2 mile) to the famous Starved Rock State Park in central Illinois. Miles of beautiful sandstone canyons with impressive waterfalls and scenic high bluffs along the Illinois River draw people from all over the world to this anomaly amidst the cornfields. Although there is no rock climbing permitted at Starved Rock (Perhaps our hungry little quartzite's revenge?), the waterfalls freeze solid in winter, allowing some of the finest ice climbing in the Midwest. | |
 | The name of the park comes from local history. Two indian tribes had a nasty dispute resulting in one of the tribes being driven to a high sandstone bluff where they eventually 'starved' to death. Today, Starved Rock (left) is fitted with an observation deck and stairs and is ascended by thousands of people each year. The view from the top is one of the best in the county. If you are in the area, Starved Rock makes for an interesting stop. Miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks and an historic old Lodge will fill the better part of the day with interesting activity. Non-primitive tent camping is available, though you should make reservations - Starved Rock is the most popular State Park in Illinois and the campground fills quickly most weekends. |
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| You can always drop Tom or Mark a note via the website -- they will be happy to give you the skinny on the fall colors or the ice conditions here. Just ask and we will send you a free brochure about the park. If you do come to Starved Rock State Park, be sure to stop by and see us at our retail store! | |
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