Castle Rock State Park
Castle Rock State Park is located three miles south of Oregon, Illinois on Highway 2. The park is centrally located in the Rock River Hills region of Illinois, and its rolling topography is drained by the Rock River. The park is located along the west bank of the Rock River in Ogle County. The park is very representative of the Rock River Hills area with rock formations, ravines, and unique northern plant associations. A sandstone bluff, adjacent to the river, has given the park its name.

Castle Rock was recognized in the state of Illinois as an outstanding area of major scientific importance in 1965. It was established as a project area, and land acquisition by the State was started in 1970. At the present time, Castle Rock consists of approximately 2,000 acres, 710 of which are designated as an Illinois Nature Preserve. The site was dedicated as a state park in 1978.

Picnicking
There are three picnic areas available for use with shelters, picnic tables, playground equipment, grills, toilets, and drinking water. There are also scattered tables for use along the river. One of the picnic areas offers a beautiful view over the Rock River Valley. Two of the park's shelters may be reserved with a fee.

Trails
There are six miles of marked hiking trails developed at this time. These trails offer the opportunity to view woodland animals and birds that inhabit the park. The trails' scenic views also offer many chances for the photographers to sharpen their skills. More trails are planned with the park's development. Cross-country skiing and tobogganing are also available when weather permits.

Fishing and Boating
All the fishing is done in the Rock River. The park offers one and one-half miles of bank fishing. There is also a boat ramp available for public use. Boat size is limited due to the varying depth of the river. The most commonly caught fish is the catfish, but some bass, northern, walleye, and crappie may be taken.

Camping
Castle Rock does not have a campground except for a primitive canoe camping area. Access to the area is by canoe or boat only.

Hunting
Limited squirrel, turkey and deer hunting is available at the park. For more information, please contact the park office.

Directions
Castle Rock State Park is located on IL Hwy 2, 4 miles south of Oregon, IL., 12 miles north of Dixon, IL.

Traveling west from the Chicago area on I-90 to Rockford. At Rockford take I-39 south 20 miles to IL Hwy 64. At Exit 104, turn right at Oregon exit, take Hwy 64 west to Oregon. Turn south on IL Hwy 2 for 4 miles to park.

If traveling west on I-88, take Exit 97 at I-39 at Rochelle. Take I-39 north 7 miles to Hwy 64. Go west on Hwy 64 for 15 miles to Oregon. Take IL Hwy 2 south to the park.

Reprinted with permission of Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Castle Rock State Park
1365 W. Castle Road
Oregon, IL 61061
815.732.7329

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