Castle Rock SP and Lowden Miller State Forest
Summary:
Castle Rock SP and Lowden-Miller SF hug a relatively short 3.5 mile stretch of Rock River with scenic woods and soaring sandstone bluffs, one of which gives the State Park its name.
Only two hours from Chicago by car, Castle Rock offers 6 miles of marked hiking trails, and picturesque spots for a picnic, making it a totally doable day trip.
If you have more time to spare, the Lowden-Miller State Forest is just across the river with additional 22 miles of hiking trails. Getting there is half the fun. You could drive to the nearest bridge in Oregon, IL (about a 10 mile trip), or…
Bring or rent a kayak or canoe. This will also allow you to camp at one of the primitive sites at Castle Rock, accessible only by watercraft.
If you to stay in the area longer, additional camping and cabins are available at the nearby White Pines SP
Illinois DNR Castle Rock SP page.
Illinois DNR Lowden-Miller page.
Illinois DNR White Pines SP camping & lodging info.
Canoe/kayak rental and shuttle service available at White Pelican in Oregon.