Matthiessen State Park

Matthiessen State Park is a nature preserve with canyons, streams, forests, and sandstone walls carved by water flow. The landscape features multiple sections, including deeper areas with waterfalls and gentler terrain for walking.

A private landowner developed this property in the 1890s as a personal nature preserve. After donating it to the state of Illinois, it became a public park open to visitors in 1943.

Visitors walk through pathways that reveal how water has shaped the sandstone landscape over thousands of years. The names of different sections reflect the geological forces that continue to define this place today.

The area offers hiking trails of varying difficulty and spots for horseback riding and picnicking at designated locations. Wear sturdy footwear when visiting, as pathways can become slippery after rain.

The area is marked by several waterfalls visible in different parts of the canyon system. The largest plunges into a lake, showing how constant water movement continuously reshapes the rocks.

Location: Illinois

Inception: 1943

Website: https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/Matthiessen.aspx

GPS coordinates: 41.29560,-89.02530

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:02