Vertical Heartland Climbing School and Services

Technical rock climbing instruction for small groups and individuals. Vertical skills training for tactical response teams. Rock climbing experiences for small or large groups. Leasing of our cliff to film and video producers.

CITY: Buncombe

Egyptian Hills Resort

Egyptian Hills Resort is your passport to the Ultimate outdoor family vacation. Whether you are into waterskiing, wakeboarding, tubing, sport fishing, or pleasure boating; the Lake of Egypt is a boater’s paradise. All within a stone’s throw of your cabin. Within minutes of your cabin, your family can enjoy guided expeditions such as; horseback riding, rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, geo-caching, wildlife photography and many other outdoor activities. Whether planning a single activity or multiple activities for your group, we at Egyptian Hills are your personal concierge in planning your ultimate outdoor family vacation. Whether onsite or through one of our partner guides, all activities are tailored for all ages and experience levels.

CITY: Creal Springs

Garden of the Gods

Explore the dramatic rock formations, cliffs and trails of the most visited site in the Shawnee National Forest. Millions of years in the making, the Garden of the Gods provides spectacular views unlike anywhere in the Midwest. See Camel Rock, Anvil Rock, Devil's Smoke Stack and other magnificent rock formations in this hiker’s and photographer’s wonderland.

CITY: Karbers Ridge

Libertyville Sports Complex

Libertyville's Sports Complex offers something for everyone in the family. A 360° climbing mountain for rock climbing, a 40 tee automated heated driving range for year round practice and a fitness center offering group exercise classes, life fitness with cardio and hammer strength equipment, personnel trainers, a free weight room, ¼ mile running/walking track and a kids club. It also offers an open gym for indoor soccer, basketball, youth sports and training sessions. There is also 3,503 sq. ft. of meeting rooms suited for events from small family gatherings to corporate events and trade shows.

CITY: Libertyville

Giant City State Park

Spectacular woodlands and sheer sandstone walls create a challenge for rock climbing and rappelling, as well as hiking. Outdoor lovers will also find horseback riding, a lookout tower, cabins and a swimming pool. Dine at historic Giant City Lodge, known for its homemade fried chicken dinner.

CITY: Makanda

Starved Rock Lodge

Full-service Conference Center in Starved Rock State Park. Dining room, bar, veranda, outdoor dining, indoor pool (for Lodge guests). Retreats, meetings, banquets and dream weddings. Lodge has 69 rooms and 21 cabin rooms in a rustic, wooded setting.

CITY: Oglesby

Starved Rock State Park - Ice Climbing

While rock climbing is prohibited, there are up to five canyons in which ice climbing is permitted when conditions allow. All ice climbers must sign in at the ranger station (Park Office) and must have a partner. Call ahead to check ice and other park conditions.

CITY: Oglesby

Starved Rock State Park Visitors Center

The Starved Rock State Park Visitors Center has several interactive displays, free videos on the park, hiking maps, and more. Trailheads Concessions & Gifts, also located here, is a great place to buy gifts, souvenirs, and snacks (fresh fudge, too)! The Visitor Center and Trailheads are open year-round.

CITY: Utica