State: Illinois
Address 1: 7318 Harlem Road
City: Loves Park
Zip: 61111
Phone: 815-885-3311
Open all Year: Yes
Number of Sites: 268
Electric: 268
Camp URL: http://dnr.state.il.us/lands/Landmgt/parks/r1/rockcut.htm
Full Hook: Yes
Chiseled out of the states far northern region is Rock Cut State Park in Winnebego County. Nearby are other “rocky” landmarks – the mighty Rock River and the place where wagons once forded it, Rockford. Its an area of rolling plains, interesting history and recreational variety.
Two lakes set off the parks 3,092 acres. Pierce Lake, with 162 acres, is a retreat for people wanting to fish, ice fish or ice skate. A second 50-acre Olson Lake is especially for swimmers. Rounding out the parks recreational options are camping, hiking, horseback trails and cross-country skiing. Whatever the season, you can be sure theres quite a bit of activity going on at Rock Cut State Park.
Trails
The trail system at Rock Cut offers opportunities for hiking (40 miles), mountain biking(23 miles), and equestrian(14 miles) and has been completely remarked. Trail users will find updated trail head/information signs at picnic areas and trail access points for trail information and regulations. Only certain trails are designated for mountain biking and equestrian use and are identified by colored trail markers. Blue trails are for mountain biking and hiking, yellow trails are for equestrian and hiking and red trails are restricted to hiking only. Sorry, Rock Cut does not have horse rentals or stables at the site. Lockwood Park located in the Rockford area has horse rentals and is approximately 10 miles from the park.
Camping
For those who want to include an overnight stay in their visit to Rock Cut, the park offers 28 Class A-Premium sites for reservation, 180 Class A-Premium sites and 60 Class B-Premium sites on a first-come first-serve basis. There is also a primitive cabin available for reservation. It has electricity, but does not have water or plumbing facilities.
Open year round, the campgrounds provide water, electricity, sanitary dump stations, showers, toilets, a boat launch and playground equipment. Only electricity and pit toilets are available in the winter season. Equestrian camping is restricted to a site on Hart Road. Groups of more than 25 persons need advance permission from the site superintendent before they can enter the park, and all campers require a permit from park personnel. Alcohol is prohibited in the campground.
Fishing and Boating
One of the parks most popular activities is fishing Pierce Lake.The lake is stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish and channel catfish, as well as bullhead, northern pike, muskellunge and walleye. Pierce Lake will allow any size engine on the lake, however, engines over 10 hp can operate at No Wake speed only. Paddle & Trail Bait Shop is open at Pierce Lake with Canoe, Kayak and boat rentals, they also have various types of bait available. Pierce lake also has docks and two launching ramps available. Olson Lake also offers excellent fishing. Carry on watercraft and electric motors only.
Hunting
The hunting program allows disabled hunters an opportunity to participate in a Department of Natural Resources program for managing the deer herd and turkey populations at Rock Cut State Park.
Swimming
Olson Lake Beach will be operated this summer (Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend) by contract of Beachwatch Lifeguard & Lake Patrol. The Beach is open from 12:00PM to 7:00PM daily, weather permitting. Amenities include Lifeguards, sand volleyball courts, paddle boat rentals, concession items and a changing room.
Picnicking and Concession
Knowing that a visit to a state park is more fun when theres food to be enjoyed, Rock Cut has picnic areas scattered throughout the park. Each is complete with tables, outdoor stoves, and pit toilets. Red Oak and Puri Crest have playgrounds. Check out our newest addition, Lone Rock Cafe features wireless internet, a variety of food items and drinks including smoothies and blended coffees. They are open May – October 7a – 7p daily.
Facilities for the Disabled
Several features make Rock Cut State Park accessible to the disabled. Two fishing piers are available, including a covered pier at the Lions Club day use area. The area, which is totally accessible for the disabled, features paved walkways, toilets, and a picnic shelter. The parks campground area has flush toilets and showers that can be used by disabled visitors. Handicapped parking spaces are located in all of the parks lots.
Winter Sports
Take to the trails in the winter. A winding system of cross-country ski trails lets you take in the parks winter beauty. Cross country skis and snowshoes can be rented through our concession located at the Camp Store in Plum Grove Theres more winter fun – ice fishing is a great Rock Cut pastime.
