Starved Rock State Park Illinois and 50+ Secret Places in America That Most Tourists Don't Know About

Located on the Illinois River, Starved Rock has boating, fishing and picnicking aplenty, which draws lots of the big crowds. And the bluffs overlooking the river are popular spots for sightseeing. But if you want to explore the falls, you have to work a little bit—they're only accessible via hiking trails. Of the 18 canyons, 14 have waterfalls at various times of the year, the largest of which are Wildcat Canyon, LaSalle Canyon and St. Louis Canyon. While you must hike to get to them, all the trails are well maintained, busy, and easy to navigate. If you can make it during the week, do so to avoid the crowds.