Matthiessen State Park, Starved Rock State Park Travel Guide

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Explore canyons, waterfalls, and unique rock formations at this stunning Illinois state park, a hidden gem near Starved Rock.

Matthiessen State Park, located near Oglesby, Illinois, offers a stunning landscape of canyons, waterfalls, and unique geological formations. Once a private estate named 'Deer Park,' it's now a public park where visitors can explore the beauty of the Illinois River Valley.

A brief summary to Matthiessen State Park

2500 IL-178, Oglesby, Illinois, 61348, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Matthiessen State Park.

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking lots in the Dells Area fill up quickly.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails can be muddy and slippery, especially in the canyons.
Stay on marked trails; unmarked areas can be dangerous due to steep cliffs and canyons.
Bring water and snacks, as there are no food options inside the park.
Check the park's website for trail closures and alerts before your visit.

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Getting There

Driving

From Interstate 39 or 80, exit onto IL-178 South. Follow IL-178 South for approximately 5 miles to N25th Rd, which is the entrance road to Matthiessen State Park. Turn right onto N25th Rd and follow the park road for about 0.9 miles to the main Dells Area parking lot. Parking is free. Be aware that the Dells Area parking lot often fills up by 11 AM on weekends, with closures until 3 PM.
Public Transport

The closest bus service is to Oglesby. From Oglesby, take a taxi or rideshare service to Matthiessen State Park's Dells Area parking lot, located at 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348. Confirm availability and cost of taxi/rideshare in advance.

Discover more about Matthiessen State Park

Matthiessen State Park, a hidden gem in Illinois's landscape, invites visitors to explore its captivating natural beauty. Located a few miles south of the more famous Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen offers a unique experience with its stunning canyons, cascading waterfalls, and unusual rock formations.Originally known as Deer Park, the land was purchased in the late 19th century by Frederick William Matthiessen, a prominent industrialist and philanthropist. Matthiessen transformed the area into a private park, hiring around 50 people to construct trails, bridges, stairways, and dams. After his death in 1918, his heirs donated the 176-acre park to the State of Illinois. In 1943, it was renamed Matthiessen State Park in his honor and has since expanded to 1,938 acres.The park's main features are the Dells, a series of canyons carved by water erosion. The Upper Dells begins at Deer Park Lake and leads to Cascade Falls, a 45-foot drop into the Lower Dells. Visitors can hike along well-marked trails, marveling at the exposed sandstone and unique plant and animal life.Matthiessen State Park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking. The park also features a restored French fort, a field archery range, and areas for model airplane flying. With its diverse landscape and rich history, Matthiessen State Park provides an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.