Matthiessen State Park

#8254 among destinations in the United States

National park

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Matthiessen State Park is a hidden gem located in the heart of LaSalle County, Illinois. This stunning state park is known for its unique rock formations, lush greenery, and picturesque waterfalls. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts, including hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching.

One of the main attractions of Matthiessen State Park is the breathtaking Cascade Falls. Visitors can take a leisurely hike along the trails that wind through the park, leading them to this stunning waterfall. The natural beauty of the cascading water against the backdrop of the rock formations creates a truly mesmerizing sight.

In addition to the waterfalls, Matthiessen State Park is also home to a network of caves and canyons waiting to be explored. The park's unique geological features provide a one-of-a-kind experience for adventurers looking to delve into the depths of the earth.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the park offers several picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a peaceful meal surrounded by the beauty of nature. The serene atmosphere and scenic views make Matthiessen State Park the perfect destination for a relaxing day trip or weekend getaway.

Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike will find plenty to see and do at Matthiessen State Park. Whether it's hiking through the rugged terrain, marveling at the waterfalls, or simply taking in the natural beauty, this state park offers a truly unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Established: 1943 (81 years ago)Elevation: 600 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 41°17'41"N, 89°1'31"W

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IllinoisUnited States

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Day trips

Matthiessen State Park – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Peru Mall, Hotel Plaza Site, Hegeler Carus Mansion, LaSalle County Historical Society Museum.

6.8 miNW
Shopping, Department store, Shopping centre
Peru Mall, Peru
173 min walk • Peru Mall is a shopping mall located in Peru, Illinois, United States. The mall's anchor stores are Jo-Ann Fabrics, AMC Theatres, and Marshalls. There are 3 vacant anchor stores that were once Bergner's, JCPenney, and Sears. Other retailers include: Rue21, Claire's, Buckle, Spencer's, and a few more.
2.6 miNE
Archaeological site
Hotel Plaza Site, Starved Rock State Park
66 min walk • The Hotel Plaza Site is located near Starved Rock, on the Illinois River across from the Zimmerman Site aka Grand Village of the Illinois.
4.3 miNW
Building, Music venue, History museum
Hegeler Carus Mansion, Peru-LaSalle
110 min walk • The Hegeler Carus Mansion, located at 1307 Seventh Street in La Salle, Illinois is one of the Midwest's great Second Empire structures. Completed in 1876 for Edward C.
3.3 miN
41°20'26"N • 89°0'36"W
LaSalle County Historical Society Museum, Utica
84 min walk • History museum, Museum
4.3 miNW
City hall
LaSalle City Building, Peru-LaSalle
111 min walk • The LaSalle City Building is the historic civic hall building in LaSalle, Illinois, United States. Completed in 1907, the hall exemplifies early 20th-century trends in city management.
4.2 miNW
Ship
The Volunteer, Peru-LaSalle
107 min walk • The Volunteer is a 76-foot replica of a 19th-century canal boat which is owned and operated by the Canal Corridor Association. The Volunteer operates on a restored section of the Illinois and Michigan Canal at LaSalle, Illinois, US.
4.5 miNW
Church, Memorial
Queen of the Holy Rosary Memorial Shrine, Peru-LaSalle
116 min walk • The Queen of the Holy Rosary Memorial Shrine is a Catholic church in the Diocese of Peoria It is located at 529 Fourth Street in La Salle, Illinois and is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary in memory of all living and deceased military veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
1.9 miW
41°17'37"N • 89°3'46"W
Oglesby Public Library, Oglesby
50 min walk • Library