lowden state park

777williame

It was great to see the park and the personal connection to it in that my mother worked for Gov Lowden for 4 years as his private secretary.

312beccas

the trees are dropping leaves full of color just a beautiful place to enjoy nature and picture taking.

402DianaB402

My husband and I went for a midweek getaway to Lowden State Park. We had never been before, and we were a little anxious about what we would find when we got there. We should not have been, because the park was peaceful and well-kept. The campsites were larger than you normally see in a state park, and since it was midweek in September, we were one of the few campers there. The paths are pretty easy to climb, and the view at the top is worth the walk. The bathrooms are clean and modern. It was so quiet in the evening that we could hear the crickets and the occasional snapping of twigs in the woods. We also made a trip into Oregon to visit Conover Square, a remodeled piano factory, that's now full of antique shops, a coffee shop, and a model railroad set-up for train buffs like my husband. There's also a Dairy Queen if you are so inclined! :) Beautiful state park, we give it two thumbs up!

599gregg

I love the peaceful serenity here. Lots of mature trees and scenic views of the Rock River from high up. The campground hosts are very friendly and helpful and the grounds are very well kept up. The bathrooms/showers are always clean.

mother15

JMJ Recently read about this 102yr old statue that a group of citizens, including the Chicago Blackhawk Team, are trying to bring back to pristine condition. The 270 ton statue designed by acclaimed artist Lorado Taft, will be completed restored after extensive structural testing had discovered more damage from weather than previosly thought. I was afraid that we would not have access to the statue but it was just the opposite!! A small orange fence is around the very bottom of the base of the statue but you can drive and park extremely close to the statue. ( you can also hike in from a farther parking lot if it is crowded. ). You can see why the sight was chosen because the Rock River is right below you. Signs explain some of the history of the area and the artist and the artistic community that once flourished there. Go soon before the repair work gets into full swing. Also if you are a camper, there are facilities in Lowden State Park also.

GmaJean

I have been coming here all of my life and look forward to it. Blackhawk is a little worn but restoration has begun again. We have starting bring our grandchildren here and making it a tradition. While I have never camped here, it always looks well-maintained. The paths are beautiful.

182jennieb

Plentiful exercise for the nature hiker enthusiasts. A grand view of the river and areas to camp. Good to spend with the family or take some time for yourself and explore nature!

rednewf

Beautiful, pristine and easily accessible. Gorgeous area on the Rock River. Campsites are much larger than typical parks which makes it our favorite campground. Highly recommended.

310karib

This is a nice park. Great views of the rock river. Lots of stairs! The views are very pretty. The kids had a great time running the trails.

KevinA141

I liked the statue of the Indian and the view of the Rock River and the hiking trails and it's easy to get to.

MarciaH58

Lowden State Park is home to Blackhawk Statue and there's not another big face like his in the United States. Get your first view from across the river along route #2 and then go to the park to get out and look up at him from the base. This time of year he is regal when there is a light snow fall and it settles on his arms and looks like his blanket is fluffy white wool. The park is great for hiking, even in the winter and the trails along the river have unlimited views of the opposite shore since summer's foliage is now gone. After hiking and viewing, come into town for warm food and drink and then warm beds if you feel the urge.

JetP165

Lowden State Park is always a really nice place to visit in/around Oregon, IL. Chief Blackhawk's Statue is something to see up close, but it is breathtaking in the fall from across the Rock River on Route 2. Camping ground has lots of electric sites, and hiking is a challenge for the average hiker. I always look across the river when traveling Route 2, just to see the Chief. It is relaxing.

492dawnp

The Black Hawk Statue is so beautiful with the fall leaves in the background. The trails were just as wonderful. We even climbed the stairs.

Betty462013

Seeing the BIG statue of Black Hawk was worth the drive from Chicago for anyone who's interested. How breathtaking the scenery and views from the base. (Can't climb the statue; so, sorry to disappoint.)

DarrenH760

We have lived here for 17 years as of this writing. Every guest we have, loves going to see the statue and enjoying the views over the valley. The park has plenty of great trails to explore as well. RV camping plus primitive tent camping. Many people come out to run the stairs down to the river and back up. Its a great work out for sure. Be sure to visit the American Indian statue made by famed sculptor Laredo Taft. He has other pieces in the area as well as throughout the state. He was the founder of the Eagle's Nest artist colony that was a big part of Oregon history from the early 1900's thru the depression. Enjoy.