Starved Rock State Park is located a little over an from Chicago’s suburbs. Due to its close proximity to the city, you will find it overcrowded most weekends. My intent in visiting the park was to find solace in nature, have great conversation with a friend, scope out potential photoshoot locations, and challenge my body past its limits.
My friend and I visited on a 90-degree dry day, hoping to miss the overcrowding. Typically, it has multiple waterfalls to admire, but on this Saturday afternoon, we found the waterfalls dried up or at a low trickle.
Despite the disappointment we were grateful for the chance to adventure. At one point she said, “Hey, at least we aren’t at home on the couch!”
Don’t get me wrong I love my couch as much as the next person, but I do see her point in staying active and exploring the world. While, I would recommend seeing these waterfalls with your friends and family, a photoshoot might prove to be frustrating.
We met some hilarious kiddos, sweet parents and even a baby raccoon on this trip. It absolutely wasn’t waisted. We started and ended our day with coffee which is always a good idea, we challenged ourselves on the many flights of stairs, and brought home souvenirs.
After hiking past two dry waterfalls we could finally hear water rushing in the distance. We knew we must be getting close and the third would’t disappoint us. We were delighted to hear laughter the closer we came and that last waterfall was full of rejuvenated hikers.
My absolute dream would be to hike with you in Southern Illinois near Shawnee National Forest to take your Engagement, Maternity, Family or Elopement Photos! If you are interested at all in modeling for a session, send a smoke signal, a carrier pigeon or message me on my socials! Let’s keep our adventure muscles active!
Until next month, lovely friends!
xoxo Kimberly Nicole
