Starved Rock Country Marathon – Ottawa, IL 2026

Date
May 9, 2026
Location
Ottawa, IL
Venue
805 LaSalle Street
Start Time
7:00 AM
Entry Fee
$40.00 – $125.00
Events
Marathon, Marathon - No Shirt, Half Marathon, Half Marathon - No Shirt, 10K, 5k
Includes
T-Shirt
Register NowRegistration OpenOfficial Race Website

Entry fees for the Starved Rock Country Marathon range from $40 to $125, depending on registration timing and distance selection. The event takes place in Ottawa, Illinois on May 9, 2026, starting at 7:00 AM from 805 LaSalle Street. Runners can choose from multiple distances: the full 26.2-mile marathon, a half marathon, a 10K (6.2 miles), or a 1-mile option. This multi-distance format makes the race accessible to runners at different experience levels, from those tackling their first marathon to those seeking a shorter spring race.

From the Race Organizer
Back for a 12th year, the 2026 Starved Rock Country Marathon and Half Marathon, 5K and now 10K have become the "must do" events of the running community in central Illinois. The Marathon course will again encompass the scenery of the Illinois River, the neighborhoods of Ottawa, and the rolling landscapes in and around Starved Rock State Park. Runners will be inspired by the scenery of rolling country hills and natural rock formations tucked into heavily wooded areas created by the Illinois River thousands of years ago. This record eligible marathon course has 16 aide stations with Gatorade at each station and we plan to stock one station for the half and two for the marathon with GU. Runners participating in the Half Marathon, which starts in the heart of Starved Rock State Park, will experience the neighborhoods of Ottawa in addition to wooded scenery and sites along the Illinois River. The Half Marathon is a flat, fast course making for a nice run through country and city alike. Each

Hotels Near This Race

Find accommodation close to the start line in Ottawa, IL. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.

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Starved Rock Country Marathon – Ottawa, IL 2026

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for May 9.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Ottawa, IL. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

  • Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
  • Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
  • Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is Starved Rock Country Marathon – Ottawa, IL 2026?

Starved Rock Country Marathon – Ottawa, IL 2026 takes place on May 9, 2026. The race is held in Ottawa, Illinois.

Where is Starved Rock Country Marathon – Ottawa, IL 2026 held?

Starved Rock Country Marathon – Ottawa, IL 2026 is held at 805 LaSalle Street in Ottawa, Illinois.

Where can I find hotels near Starved Rock Country Marathon – Ottawa, IL 2026?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Ottawa. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.