My G/F and I rode up one side of the Mississippi from Central Illinois to LaCrosse, WI. and down the other side last weekend. Check it out:
http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=77367 (http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=77367)
Yes, that USED to be losttrails bike :)
Looked like the Savannah bridge Balltown for food at the bar/diner.
I ride that area alot,and stay at Pikes Peak park in McGregor.
Have fun.Am looking forward to going to Starved Rock Park this summer with the better half!
Let me know wehn you come to Starved Rock. I live 3 miles from there, and if you're camping, you may do so at my place, which is just as scenic.
As a side - I have an annual party named "Tequilafest" which will be July 3rd, if anyone's interested in stopping by. Plenty of beer, tequila,fireworks, food, etc. There is some nice river roads in my area to ride as well.