How to Celebrate Earth Day at One of Illinois’ Most Beloved Parks
- starvedrockhikers
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Earth Day is April 22, 2025, and the global theme this year is "Our Power, Our Planet". his theme focuses on the crucial role of renewable energy and encourages a global transition towards clean energy sources. The goal is to triple global renewable energy generation by 2030.
There is no better place to celebrate than outdoors in nature, and luckily for you, there are three beautiful state parks to explore in the Starved Rock area: Matthiessen, Buffalo Rock, and Starved Rock State Parks.
Each of these state parks plays an instrumental role in keeping the natural wonders and ecosystems of our area clean and beautiful. Invest in our parks, give back, and make a difference on Earth Day and every day.
Starved Rock Stewardship Saturday:
Where: Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center
When: April 26 starting at 8:00am.
What: Park-wide cleanup. A perfect way to enjoy a nice day of hiking with family and friends while giving back to the park. Pickers and garbage bags provided.
Learn more and sign up by emailing Park Natural Resource Coordinator Lisa Sons. Email Lisa at lisa.sons@illinois.gov.
Hike safely at the park by following a couple tips from Starved Rock Hikers:
More ways you can give back this Earth Day 2025
Create awareness of Earth Day, environmental efforts, and keeping our parks clean
Consider posting on social media (tag @starvedrockhikers if you do!) or inviting family/friends to come out to the parks with you
Plant a tree at your house - this is a super fun activity for the whole family!
Use green and reusable products. Reduce your carbon footprint.
Go through old items and donate those which are being unused instead of throwing stuff in the trash
Join a community, such as the Hikers Community, where you can connect and celebrate with people who love the outdoors just like you
Get involved with and donate to the Starved Rock Foundation
Starved Rock Hikers is proud to collaborate closely with the Starved Rock Foundation. The Starved Rock Foundation, through generous donations from people like you, help further funding for park programs, events, and interpretive materials such as exhibits, maps, and signage found throughout the park.
The Starved Rock Foundation is a friends group that supports the state park through educational programs, supplies, exhibit updates, leading hikes, trail walkers, front desk support, bookstore, and other labors of love. It is a volunteer-run organization. The Foundation and the staff at the park work hand-in-hand to provide a positive park experience. Without them, the Visitor’s Center, guided hikes, and programs could not happen.
Over the last 20 years, the Foundation has donated nearly $450,000 to various projects in and around the Park. Get involved by signing up to volunteer, or by becoming a Foundation member!
A portion of the Starved Rock Hikers proceeds are donated to the Starved Rock Foundation. Browse our product offerings in the Le Rocher Gift Shop at the Starved Rock Visitor Center, at one of our local retailers, or on our online shop.
