Matthiessen State Park River Area: A Geological Paradise
Discover scenic trails, geological wonders, and outdoor activities at Matthiessen State Park's Vermilion River Area, a natural gem near Starved Rock.
Explore the scenic Vermilion River Area of Matthiessen State Park, a natural wonderland shaped by geological forces and named after industrialist Frederick William Matthiessen. Discover diverse recreational activities amidst stunning landscapes, just a short drive from Starved Rock State Park.
A brief summary to Matthiessen State Park River Area
- 2433 IL-178, Oglesby, Illinois, 61348, US
Local tips
- Bring sturdy hiking boots, as trails can be muddy and slippery, especially in spring.
- Visit during or after rain for the best waterfall views, but be prepared for wet conditions.
- Check for closures, as the Dells and Vermilion River Areas can close when parking lots are full, especially on weekends.
- Explore the sunflower fields in late July and early August near the Vermilion River Area.
Getting There
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Driving
From Interstate 39, take the Oglesby exit and follow the signs to Matthiessen State Park. The Vermilion River Area entrance is south of the Dells Area on IL-178. Parking is free, but lots can fill quickly, especially on weekends. Overflow parking is available.
Discover more about Matthiessen State Park River Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Westclox Museum
9.4 km
Explore the history of timekeeping at the Westclox Museum, located in the original factory in Peru, Illinois. A fascinating look at an iconic American company.
Starved Rock Family Campground
10.2 km
A family-owned campground near Starved Rock State Park, offering a peaceful retreat with modern amenities and a welcoming community.
Buffalo Rock State Park
10.6 km
Discover scenic views, historical landmarks, and unique earth art at Buffalo Rock State Park, a natural treasure in Illinois.
Starved Rock Country
16.7 km
Explore stunning canyons, waterfalls, and historic sites in Illinois' Starved Rock Country, a Midwest gem.
Wild Bill Hickok State Memorial
21.5 km
Explore the humble Illinois origins of Wild Bill Hickok, legendary lawman and icon of the American Wild West, at his birthplace memorial in Troy Grove.
Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial
26.2 km
Honor the fallen at the Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial in Marseilles, IL: a place for reflection, remembrance, and respect.
Indian Creek Massacre Historic Site
32.0 km
Reflect on a pivotal event in Illinois' history at the Indian Creek Massacre Historic Site, a place of remembrance and contemplation.
Owen Lovejoy House
37.3 km
Explore the Owen Lovejoy House in Princeton, IL—a historical museum dedicated to the life of abolitionist Owen Lovejoy and the fight for freedom.
Robert Waugh House
44.8 km
Explore the Robert Waugh House, a historic gem in Sparland, Illinois, showcasing unique architecture and rich local history.
Gebhard Brewery Building
50.0 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of the Gebhard Brewery Building in Morris, Illinois, a must-visit landmark for history lovers.
Oughton Estate Windmill
53.7 km
Visit the historic Oughton Estate Windmill in Dwight, IL: a symbol of innovation and a landmark on the National Register of Historic Places.
Strevell House
54.8 km
Visit the Strevell House in Pontiac, IL: A beautifully restored 1850s Carpenter Gothic home where Abraham Lincoln once stayed. Open for tours!
The River Corridor
56.1 km
Discover Chillicothe's historical charm at The River Corridor, where the city's rich heritage meets the scenic beauty of the Illinois River.
Edith Farnsworth House
57.0 km
Experience architectural history at the iconic Edith Farnsworth House, a stunning glass and steel masterpiece in harmony with nature.
Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area
57.0 km
Discover natural beauty and outdoor adventures at Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area in Yorkville, Illinois. A perfect escape for all seasons.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hiking parking Matthiessen state park
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking hiking trails and scenic beauty of Matthiessen State Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Illinois.
Remote Control Airplane Field
0.9 km
Discover the joy of flight at Oglesby's Remote Control Airplane Field, a perfect spot for families and aviation enthusiasts alike.
Devil’s Paint Box
1.9 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and vibrant trails of Devil’s Paint Box in Oglesby, Illinois, a paradise for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
Matthiessen State Park
1.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Matthiessen State Park, a must-visit natural gem in Illinois.
Dells Canyon and Bluff Trailhead
2.0 km
Explore the scenic Dells Canyon and Bluff Trailhead in Oglesby, Illinois, a top destination for hiking and enjoying breathtaking natural beauty.
Matthiessen State Park Fort
2.0 km
Explore the enchanting landscapes of Matthiessen State Park, where waterfalls meet serene trails in the heart of Illinois.
Cascade Falls
2.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cascade Falls in Oglesby, Illinois—a haven for hikers and nature lovers seeking tranquility and adventure.
Bridge - Matthiessen State Park Trail
2.1 km
Explore Matthiessen State Park Trail's breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and stunning geological formations in Oglesby, Illinois.
️Matthiessen Lake Waterfall
2.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Matthiessen Lake Waterfall in Oglesby, Illinois, a must-visit natural attraction for every nature lover.
Lehigh Memorial Park
2.6 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of Lehigh Memorial Park, a perfect retreat for relaxation and outdoor fun in Oglesby, Illinois.
Vermillion River Rafting
2.6 km
Discover the thrill of rafting on the beautiful Vermillion River, a perfect adventure for all skill levels amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Grand Bear Falls Indoor Waterpark
4.2 km
Experience the thrill of water adventures at Grand Bear Falls Indoor Waterpark, a family-friendly destination in North Utica, Illinois.
Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock
4.2 km
Discover adventure and relaxation at Grand Bear Resort, your family-friendly getaway near the breathtaking landscapes of Starved Rock.
Memorial Park
4.3 km
Explore Memorial Park in Oglesby, Illinois - a tranquil memorial park honoring veterans with serene landscapes and peaceful walking paths.
St Louis Canyon Falls
4.5 km
Experience St Louis Canyon Falls, a tranquil hiking area in Oglesby, Illinois, featuring breathtaking waterfalls and serene natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
Año Del Gallo
3.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Año Del Gallo in Oglesby, where delicious food meets an extensive selection of craft beers in a lively setting.
Mr. Salsa's, Inc.
3.5 km
Experience the vibrant tastes of Mexico at Mr. Salsa's in Oglesby – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Claudette's
3.5 km
Discover Claudette's: A delightful grill and sports bar in Oglesby offering delicious food and lively game day excitement.
Brennan's
3.8 km
Experience culinary excellence at Brennan's gastropub in Oglesby - where gourmet dining meets vibrant socializing.
CortiLeno's
3.8 km
Discover the culinary delights at CortiLeno's Grill in Oglesby - where great flavors meet friendly service!
Bear Island Outdoor Bar & Grill
4.1 km
Discover Bear Island Outdoor Bar & Grill: Where delicious grilled cuisine meets stunning outdoor ambiance in North Utica.
Jack's Place Restaurant & Bar
4.2 km
Discover delicious breakfasts at Jack's Place Restaurant & Bar in North Utica – where culinary delights meet cozy charm.
Sam's Pizza
4.4 km
Discover Sam's Pizza in Oglesby: A delightful pizza destination offering fresh ingredients and a cozy atmosphere perfect for all visitors.
The Rootbeer Stand
4.5 km
Discover The Rootbeer Stand in Oglesby, IL - A delightful American fast-food experience with classic flavors and nostalgic charm.
Garzanelli's Supper Club
5.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of American and Italian cuisine at Garzanelli's Supper Club in Oglesby—where great food meets vibrant atmosphere.
Main Dining Room at Starved Rock Lodge
5.0 km
Dine amidst nature's splendor at Starved Rock Lodge's Main Dining Room—where local flavors meet stunning views.
Starved Rock Lodge Restaurant
5.0 km
Experience exquisite dining surrounded by nature's wonders at Starved Rock Lodge Restaurant in Illinois.
The Back Door Lounge
5.0 km
Discover The Back Door Lounge at Starved Rock Lodge: where comfort food meets stunning nature views in Oglesby.
Lodi Tap House - Utica
6.9 km
Discover the flavors of Utica at Lodi Tap House - where local craft beer meets delicious American cuisine in a cozy setting.
Joy and Ed’s Bar and Grill
7.0 km
Discover Joy and Ed's Bar and Grill in North Utica - where comfort food meets friendly service in a cozy setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jack's Camp Store
2.0 km
Discover the ultimate camping and outdoor gear at Jack's Camp Store in Oglesby, Illinois, perfect for your next adventure.
Green Thumb Industries
5.7 km
Explore the lush world of cannabis and plants at Green Thumb Industries, Oglesby's premier crop grower and plant nursery.
Starved Rock River and Trail Supply
6.3 km
Discover outdoor adventures at Starved Rock River and Trail Supply, your one-stop shop for fishing gear and local expertise near Starved Rock State Park.
Jamie's OutPost
6.5 km
Explore the best of North Utica at Jamie's OutPost, where shopping meets dining in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Bakery & Cafe Nonies
6.5 km
Experience delightful baked goods and hearty breakfasts at Bakery & Cafe Nonies, a cozy spot in North Utica, Illinois.
The Rock and Soul
6.8 km
Discover nature's artistry at The Rock and Soul, a captivating rock shop in North Utica, Illinois, filled with stunning minerals and fossils.
Bruce & Ollie's Ice Cream, Specialty Coffee & Deli
7.0 km
Experience the ultimate treat at Bruce & Ollie's Ice Cream, Specialty Coffee & Deli in North Utica, IL, where flavors and hospitality blend seamlessly.
The Bickerman Building
7.0 km
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Nina's Market
8.3 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Nina's Market, where grocery shopping meets delightful dining in La Salle, Illinois.
Scout Outdoor Apparel
8.4 km
Discover high-quality outdoor apparel and gear at Scout Outdoor Apparel in La Salle, Illinois, your go-to store for adventure-ready clothing.
That Guy's Secret
8.4 km
Shop stylish men's clothing and enjoy a cozy coffee break at That Guy's Secret in La Salle, IL, where fashion meets comfort.
Country Cottage, Inc
8.5 km
Explore the enchanting Country Cottage, Inc in La Salle, Illinois - your destination for unique gifts, children's clothing, and handcrafted treasures.
E & B Tobacco & Liquor
8.6 km
Discover E & B Tobacco & Liquor in La Salle, Illinois - where quality tobacco meets a fine selection of spirits in a relaxed atmosphere.
Guitar Junkyard & String Instrument Museum
8.8 km
Explore the rich history of string instruments at La Salle's Guitar Junkyard & String Instrument Museum, a unique blend of shopping and musical artistry.
Savvy Custom Tees LLC
9.5 km
Explore your creativity at Savvy Custom Tees in Peru, IL, where personalized apparel comes to life with quality screen printing and embroidery services.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kasap's Tavern
3.3 km
Discover the vibrant local culture and welcoming atmosphere at Kasap's Tavern, a must-visit bar in Oglesby, Illinois.
Laura's East End Tap
3.3 km
Discover the warm and inviting atmosphere of Laura's East End Tap, a local bar in Oglesby, Illinois, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Bulldogs Bar
3.7 km
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Mercer's Rooftop
3.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking views at Mercer's Rooftop in Oglesby, Illinois—a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoyment.
Lizzie's Lounge
4.0 km
Discover the charm of Lizzie's Lounge in Oglesby, Illinois - a cozy lounge with friendly service and delightful drinks.
J.H. Higby's
4.2 km
Discover the cozy atmosphere of J.H. Higby's, a charming bar in Grand Bear Resort, perfect for unwinding after exploring North Utica.
Archway Tap
5.0 km
Unwind at Archway Tap, a cozy Oglesby bar offering a wide selection of drinks and a vibrant local atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Red's City Limits/ Clarks Run Campground
7.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of lively bar atmosphere and serene camping at Red's City Limits and Clarks Run Campground in North Utica, Illinois.
Greg’s Dew Drop Inn LLC
8.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks at Greg’s Dew Drop Inn LLC in La Salle, Illinois, a local favorite for relaxation and fun.
Doc's Pub
8.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at Doc's Pub in La Salle, Illinois, where locals and travelers come together for great drinks and live music.
Speakeasy on 1st
8.2 km
Discover the Prohibition-era charm at Speakeasy on 1st, a cocktail bar and lounge in La Salle, Illinois, renowned for its craft cocktails and live music.
Morts
8.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of La Salle at Morts, where local brews and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
The Camden Bar and Lounge
8.4 km
Experience the charm of The Camden Bar and Lounge, where great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await in La Salle, Illinois.
Sanctuary LaSalle
8.5 km
Experience the charm of Sanctuary LaSalle, a lively bar in La Salle, Illinois, known for its inviting atmosphere and crafted beverages.
Borderline Bar & Grill
9.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious comfort food at Borderline Bar & Grill, a must-visit destination in La Salle, Illinois.
