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Buffalo Rock State Park
4.4 ★★★★☆ 880 Google reviews · Running trail in Ottawa, Illinois · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Buffalo Rock State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Riverside bluff & 290 acres of nature with trails, camping & picnic shelters (1 with fireplace).
What runners say about Buffalo Rock State Park
“To have the morning with these beautiful gentle creatures to be near me .”
“Actually sometimes small is more peaceful.”
Nice little park close to Matthiessen and Starved Rock. Only a fraction of the size. Good for an hour or two. They have picnic areas with a pavilion and flushing toilets. Also has a playground for children and a baseball field. The shorter trails make it good for children also.
Small but big in many ways. Actually sometimes small is more peaceful. We were here last weekend. Beautiful sunny cool pleasant day. Got there about 8:20. First time here. The views of the IL River were spectacular. We were about 30 minutes into our hike, when we started to hear gunshots.
Buffalo Rock is one of three great state parks in the area. All three have their own vibe and something to appreciate. If your body needs a break and some flat/paved surfaces to walk, this less-trafficked park might be just what you need. Yes, sometimes there is noise from a nearby gun range, but not always.
So this is a smaller property more like a community park. It has a couple of namesake Buffalo, ball field, playground, picnic areas and some hiking trails. Great views of the river trailside and from the observation deck.
Trail conditions & character
“Makes more sense from a drone point of view 🤷🏻♀️… I didn’t realize the first time I went the spectacular rock view that was hidden.”
“If your body needs a break and some flat/paved surfaces to walk, this less-trafficked park might be just what you need.”
“Great parking large enough for any size rig or RV.”
“There are restrooms available and a river/bluff trail as well as the effigy trail (and buffalo).”
Plan your run at Buffalo Rock State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitednr.illinois.gov
- Phone+1 815-433-2220
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–7 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–7 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–7 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–7 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–7 pm |
| Saturday | 8 am–7 pm |
| Sunday | 8 am–7 pm |
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