Ever want to see the operation of a lock and dam? The Illinois Waterway Visitor Center offers you that as well as impressive towboats of mammoth proportions navigating through the Starved Rock Lock, which is one of eight on the Illinois Waterway. While there you can see all sorts of cool displays in the visitor center.
Maybe — confirm before you go.
Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact (309) 676-4601
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Illinois Waterway — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you camp at Illinois Waterway?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include ADT - Illinois - I - Seg 1, ADT - Illinois - I - Seg 2. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Depends Are drones allowed?
Sometimes — often allowed away from wilderness and developed or crowded areas, with rules. Check locally before you fly.
Nearby sites
Alanscottwalker / CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Forest Service Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie
CheckThis Forest Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
NPS Image/Daniel Pels National Park Service Pullman National Historical Park
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
