Witness majestic eagles soaring high in the sky in an unforgettable Illinois winter experience.
Did you know Illinois ranks second, just behind Alaska, for viewing bald eagles in the winter months? Each winter, nature lovers and adventure seekers gather at Starved Rock State Park for a breathtaking experience—Eagle Watch Weekend. This year, the tradition continues on Saturday, January 25, and Sunday, January 26, as we celebrate the American Bald Eagle and other birds of prey with a weekend full of education, exploration, and awe.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply curious about these magnificent creatures, Eagle Watch Weekend has something for everyone. With free admission to all events and exhibits, it’s a family-friendly way to connect with the natural world. This is one of the most special weekends at Starved Rock State Park, as there is plenty to see and do! Bundle up and brace yourself for an unforgettable winter experience.
Discover Birds of Prey Up Close
One of the highlights of the weekend is the Birds of Prey Programs, featuring live presentations by the Illinois Raptor Center, Stillman Nature Center, and Hoo Haven. These experts will bring their feathered ambassadors to locations across the park, including the Starved Rock Lodge, Visitor Centers, and Utica Village Hall.
From hawks to owls, you’ll get an up-close look at these fascinating creatures while learning about their role in our ecosystem and the efforts being made to protect them.
Experience Bald Eagles in Their Element
Winter along the Illinois River is prime eagle-watching season, and there’s no better place to observe these majestic birds than the Illinois Waterway Visitor Center. Members of the Starved Rock Audubon Society will be on hand with viewing scopes, helping you spot eagles in their natural habitat and answering questions about their behavior and conservation.
Support Starved Rock Foundation
As mentioned, all activities during Eagle Watch Weekend are free, but donations to the Starved Rock Foundation are always welcome. The Foundation provides funding for programs, supplies, and presenters, ensuring events like this continue to thrive.
Starved Rock Hikers often partners with the Foundation and is excited to offer a special promotion! On January 25th and 26th, with the purchase of any item from the LeRocher Gift Shop at the Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center, you’ll receive a free Starved Rock Hikers Bald Eagle Postcard. If you can’t make it out that weekend, don’t worry—our postcards, along with all our products, are available for purchase with shipping on our website. Click here to view our unique selection of items.
Make it a Weekend Getaway
Ready to book your trip to the park for the weekend of January 25th and watch eagles soar overhead? Enhance your visit with a cozy stay nearby:
Heritage Harbor: Located right along the Illinois River in Ottawa, this serene retreat offers charming cottages and waterfront views—perfect for a relaxing escape.
Grand Bear Resort: Just minutes from the park, enjoy a waterpark, arcade, restaurant, and more on-site—ideal for families!
Bickerman Building Airbnb: Stay above Bruce and Ollie’s in downtown Utica for a unique, central experience in the small town of Utica.
Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center: Immerse yourself in the park’s serene atmosphere with lodging right in the middle of the park.
Before you head home, swing by the Starved Rock Country Welcome Center, steps away from Utica’s Mill Street. Pick up souvenirs and snap a photo with the massive eagle statue for the perfect ending to your adventure!
Why Winter is Special in Starved Rock Country
Winter transforms Starved Rock into a serene landscape of frozen waterfalls and quiet trails. Add the thrill of spotting bald eagles soaring above the Illinois River, and it’s easy to see why this event draws visitors from near and far.
Join us for Eagle Watch Weekend 2025 and experience the beauty, excitement, and inspiration that only nature can provide.
Plan your visit and view the full schedule of events below.
Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center
Live Bird of Prey Programs
Saturday and Sunday: 10:30 AM & 1:30 PM
Photos with Sadie "The Starved Rock Eagle Mascot"
Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 PM–2:00 PM
Children’s Craft and Story Time
Saturday: 12:00 PM
Starved Rock Lodge
Live Bird of Prey Programs
Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, & 3:00 PM
Exhibit Hall
Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
Illinois Waterway Visitor Center
Live Bird of Prey Programs
Saturday and Sunday: 10:30 AM & 1:30 PM
Saturday: 3:30 PM
Children’s Owl Pellet Dissection
Sunday: 3:30 PM
Utica Village Hall
Live Bird of Prey Programs
Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, & 3:00 PM
Children’s Bald Eagle Craft Time
Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 AM
Additional Information
Trolley Shuttle Between Locations
$5 wristbands for unlimited rides all day!
Eagles are not the only wildlife at Starved Rock in the winter! Check out our winter wildlife blog post before your visit to the park and be on the lookout for birds, chipmunks, deer, raptors, and more.
The winter months at Starved Rock State Park offer a unique and exciting opportunity to observe the local wildlife. Whether you're a seasoned birdwatcher or just looking to explore the great outdoors, the park is a great destination for discovering the beauty and diversity of nature – no matter the season you decide to visit!
Looking for recommendations when hiking in the winter? Check out our blog post on recommendations to enhance your winter hiking experience.
We hope these winter hiking tips will help you out on your next snowy adventure! Don’t forget to tag us and use the hashtag starvedrockhikers when sharing all your winter hiking moments! We’ll also do our best to keep hikers informed via our Hikers group on Facebook. Click here to join for free!
See you on the trails.
