Discover the Natural Wonders of Matthiessen State Park
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Matthiessen State Park, a top-tier tourist attraction in Illinois perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nestled in the heart of Illinois, Matthiessen State Park captivates visitors with its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous recreational opportunities. A true haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, this park offers everything from scenic hiking trails to picturesque waterfalls, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all.
A brief summary to Matthiessen State Park
- 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, Illinois, 61348, US
- +1815-667-4726
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the fall to see the vibrant autumn foliage.
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking, as some trails can be steep and rocky.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning waterfalls and scenic views.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots throughout the park.
- Check the weather before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, Matthiessen State Park is located at 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348. From anywhere in Western Illinois, you can access major highways to reach Oglesby. For example, if you are coming from Peoria, take I-74 East towards Chicago. Merge onto I-39 North towards Rockford. Exit at 54B to merge onto IL-251 North. Continue on IL-251 until you reach IL-178 South. Follow IL-178 for about 10 miles, and you will see the park entrance on your right. There is no entrance fee to access the park, but be sure to check for any parking fees if applicable.
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Public Transportation
For those relying on public transportation, take a Greyhound or Megabus to LaSalle, IL. From LaSalle, you can take a local taxi or rideshare service to reach Matthiessen State Park, which is approximately 10 miles away. Ensure to check the bus schedules in advance, as they can vary, and pre-arranging your taxi or rideshare can save you waiting time. Keep in mind that public transportation may not operate late in the evening, so plan your trip accordingly.
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Bicycle
For the more adventurous souls, biking to Matthiessen State Park is a great option if you are staying nearby. Oglesby has several bike-friendly routes. You can use local roads that connect to the trails near the park. Just make sure to wear a helmet and follow traffic laws. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities along the way. The park offers scenic trails perfect for biking once you arrive.
Discover more about Matthiessen State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Starved Rock Family Campground
8.3 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
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Starved Rock Country
16.3 km
Explore stunning canyons, waterfalls, and historic sites in Illinois' Starved Rock Country, a Midwest gem.
Wild Bill Hickok State Memorial
19.6 km
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Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial
26.3 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
30.5 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
36.4 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
45.7 km
Explore the Robert Waugh House, a historic gem in Sparland, Illinois, showcasing unique architecture and rich local history.
Gebhard Brewery Building
50.1 km
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Oughton Estate Windmill
54.9 km
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Edith Farnsworth House
55.9 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
56.0 km
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Strevell House
56.5 km
Visit the Strevell House in Pontiac, IL: A beautifully restored 1850s Carpenter Gothic home where Abraham Lincoln once stayed. Open for tours!
Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park
56.6 km
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The River Corridor
57.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Dells Canyon and Bluff Trailhead
0.1 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
0.2 km
Explore the enchanting landscapes of Matthiessen State Park, where waterfalls meet serene trails in the heart of Illinois.
Bridge - Matthiessen State Park Trail
0.3 km
Explore Matthiessen State Park Trail's breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and stunning geological formations in Oglesby, Illinois.
Cascade Falls
0.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cascade Falls in Oglesby, Illinois—a haven for hikers and nature lovers seeking tranquility and adventure.
Devil’s Paint Box
0.3 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 Lake Waterfall
0.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Matthiessen Lake Waterfall in Oglesby, Illinois, a must-visit natural attraction for every nature lover.
Lehigh Memorial Park
1.3 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of Lehigh Memorial Park, a perfect retreat for relaxation and outdoor fun in Oglesby, Illinois.
Remote Control Airplane Field
1.6 km
Discover the joy of flight at Oglesby's Remote Control Airplane Field, a perfect spot for families and aviation enthusiasts alike.
Hiking parking Matthiessen state park
1.9 km
Discover the breathtaking hiking trails and scenic beauty of Matthiessen State Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Illinois.
Matthiessen State Park River Area
2.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and serene trails of Matthiessen State Park River Area, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Illinois.
Grand Bear Falls Indoor Waterpark
2.5 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
2.5 km
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St Louis Canyon Falls
2.9 km
Experience St Louis Canyon Falls, a tranquil hiking area in Oglesby, Illinois, featuring breathtaking waterfalls and serene natural beauty.
Memorial Park
3.2 km
Explore Memorial Park in Oglesby, Illinois - a tranquil memorial park honoring veterans with serene landscapes and peaceful walking paths.
Saint Louis Canyon Trailhead
3.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Año Del Gallo
1.9 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.
Bear Island Outdoor Bar & Grill
2.4 km
Discover Bear Island Outdoor Bar & Grill: Where delicious grilled cuisine meets stunning outdoor ambiance in North Utica.
Jack's Place Restaurant & Bar
2.5 km
Discover delicious breakfasts at Jack's Place Restaurant & Bar in North Utica – where culinary delights meet cozy charm.
Mr. Salsa's, Inc.
2.6 km
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Claudette's
2.7 km
Discover Claudette's: A delightful grill and sports bar in Oglesby offering delicious food and lively game day excitement.
Brennan's
2.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Brennan's gastropub in Oglesby - where gourmet dining meets vibrant socializing.
CortiLeno's
2.9 km
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Main Dining Room at Starved Rock Lodge
3.6 km
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Sam's Pizza
3.7 km
Discover Sam's Pizza in Oglesby: A delightful pizza destination offering fresh ingredients and a cozy atmosphere perfect for all visitors.
Starved Rock Lodge Restaurant
3.7 km
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The Back Door Lounge
3.7 km
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The Rootbeer Stand
3.7 km
Discover The Rootbeer Stand in Oglesby, IL - A delightful American fast-food experience with classic flavors and nostalgic charm.
Garzanelli's Supper Club
3.8 km
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Lodi Tap House - Utica
5.1 km
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Joy and Ed’s Bar and Grill
5.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jack's Camp Store
1.4 km
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Starved Rock River and Trail Supply
4.5 km
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Jamie's OutPost
4.7 km
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Bakery & Cafe Nonies
4.7 km
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The Rock and Soul
4.9 km
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Green Thumb Industries
5.2 km
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Bruce & Ollie's Ice Cream, Specialty Coffee & Deli
5.2 km
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The Bickerman Building
5.2 km
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Nina's Market
6.8 km
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Scout Outdoor Apparel
6.9 km
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That Guy's Secret
6.9 km
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Country Cottage, Inc
7.1 km
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E & B Tobacco & Liquor
7.2 km
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Guitar Junkyard & String Instrument Museum
7.2 km
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Savvy Custom Tees LLC
8.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kasap's Tavern
2.3 km
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Laura's East End Tap
2.4 km
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J.H. Higby's
2.5 km
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Bulldogs Bar
2.8 km
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Mercer's Rooftop
2.9 km
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Lizzie's Lounge
3.1 km
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Archway Tap
3.8 km
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Red's City Limits/ Clarks Run Campground
5.7 km
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Greg’s Dew Drop Inn LLC
6.4 km
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Morts
6.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of La Salle at Morts, where local brews and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Doc's Pub
6.7 km
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Speakeasy on 1st
6.7 km
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The Camden Bar and Lounge
6.9 km
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Sanctuary LaSalle
7.1 km
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Borderline Bar & Grill
7.8 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Days Inn by Wyndham Oglesby/ Starved Rock
4.4 km
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Starved Rock Yacht Club
8.3 km
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Elle's Tap
8.4 km
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Fairfield Inn & Suites Ottawa Starved Rock Area
18.1 km
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Tiki
22.9 km
Discover Tiki, Ottawa's tropical-themed bar, where refreshing drinks and a relaxing atmosphere await you in the heart of Illinois.
VIP Lounge
76.2 km
Experience the elegance of the VIP Lounge at Hollywood Casino Joliet, where luxury meets relaxation in a stunning setting.
KC Lounge
77.1 km
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V.I.P. Lounge
78.0 km
Discover the excitement of the V.I.P. Lounge in Peoria, IL – where luxury meets thrill in an unforgettable nightlife experience.
3rd Ward Social Club
78.1 km
Discover the lively nightlife at 3rd Ward Social Club in Aurora, Illinois – where great drinks, music, and a vibrant atmosphere await.
Miss Lee's
78.3 km
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Luxies Social Club
79.5 km
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Aurora Spanish American Club
79.9 km
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Phoenix Club
80.1 km
Discover the vibrant community spirit at Phoenix Club in Aurora, where social connections and lively events create unforgettable memories.
Aurora Latin Amer Club Inc
81.0 km
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E & H Lounge
81.9 km
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