🎣 Fishing Areas
Cast a line at stocked ponds, quiet rivers, or scenic lakes—whether you're a hobbyist or just fishing for fun.
Get Discovered by Locals & Travelers Alike
Get your business in front of thousands of day-trippers and weekend explorers searching for their next stop in or near the Quad Cities.
Starved Rock State Park
Starved Rock State Park, nestled along the Illinois River in La Salle County, stands out as one of the most stunning spots in Illinois. Established as the state's second state park in 1911, it boasts 18 canyons with striking vertical walls of moss-laden St. Peter Sandstone, shaped by glacial meltwater over 14,000 years ago. With over 13 miles of trails, visitors can explore rain-fed waterfalls, sandstone overhangs, and breathtaking viewpoints. The park is rich in diverse plant life, including white and red oaks, maples, hickories, white pines, eastern red cedars, and northern white cedars, all of which provide a habitat for a variety of wildlife. There are numerous recreational activities available, including hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and hunting. Throughout the year, the park hosts special events, guided tours, and various programs. The Starved Rock Visitor Center welcomes guests year-round, while the historic Starved Rock Lodge, built in the 1930s, offers upscale accommodations, cabin rooms, and exquisite dining options. For reservations at the lodge, you can call 1-800-868-ROCK (800-868-7625) or 815-667-4211, or visit the lodge website.
Matthiessen State Park
Matthiessen State Park was named for Frederick William Matthiessen, a prominent industrialist and philanthropist from LaSalle. He originally purchased the land near the end of the 19th century and operated it as a privately owned park for many years. Mr. Matthiessen employed about 50 people to construct trails, bridges, stairways and dams. The area was originally referred to as “Deer Park,” in reference to the large deer population. The original 176-acre park consisted primarily of a long, narrow canyon with a small stream flowing through it. At that time, these formations were called “dells,” a name that has stayed with the park. After Mr. Matthiessen’s death, the park was donated to the State of Illinois, which opened it as a public park. In 1943, the state renamed the park in honor of Matthiessen. Since then, the park has grown to 1,938 acres and includes much of the significant natural land along the main dell, some former prairie land, and some forest land south of the original park.
Rock Creek Marina Campground
Rock Creek Marina & Campground. Where the Mississippi and Wapsipinicon Rivers meet! Camping, cabins, boating, fishing and much more abound at this campground located on the backwaters of the Mississippi River. Site of the Mississippi River Eco Tourism Center ! Home of the popular Blue Heron Eco-Cruises!!!
Filters
Tags
#Kid Friendly
#Pet Friendly
#Free Admission
#Less Than 1 Hour Away
#Great for Photos
#Indoor
#Rainy Day Friendly
#Educational
#Seasonal
#Food Nearby
#Wheelchair Accessible
#Weekend-Only
#Camping Nearby
#Paid Admission
#1–2 Hours Away
#Over 2 Hours Away
#Outdoor
#Scenic Views
#Adult Only
#Overnight Stay
#Large Group Activities
#Birthday Party Venue