Who it's for
All ages
Matthiessen State Park
Published June 2026. Editorial oversight by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards
Image credits
- Photo by Djngsf via Wikimedia Commons, CC-BY-SA-4.0
- Photo by Jkm1 via Wikimedia Commons, CC-BY-SA-4.0
About Matthiessen State Park
Hike past waterfalls and canyons carved by ancient streams in northern Illinois.
Just south of Utica, this Illinois park is shaped by ancient streams that carved rock formations, waterfalls, and canyons. Its varied landscape ranges from lush forest to open prairie.
What you'll see and do - Hike the popular Matthiessen Dells, with trails winding through dells and canyons. - Watch for wildlife and photograph the diverse ecosystems. - Fish, ride equestrian trails, or cross-country ski in season. - Spread out at picnic facilities for a family outing.
Attraction Details
Facilities
- Picnic shelters
- Restrooms
Events at Matthiessen State Park
No scheduled events listed right now, check the official site for current events.
Visit official websitePlan Your Visit
Family-tested advice for a smoother day at Matthiessen State Park.
Getting there
Matthiessen State Park is at 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348. Check the operator's site for parking and transit options.
Pro tip
Pack snacks, refillable water bottles and a portable charger to keep the day running smoothly.
Directions
Matthiessen State Park
2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348
This attraction has been claimed and verified.
Last updated 6/23/2026
Matthiessen State Park Reviews
Related Things To Do in Illinois
National State Parks
Starved Rock State Park
Oglesby, Illinois
Hike sandstone canyons and seasonal waterfalls carved by ancient glacial meltwater.
Theme Parks
Navy Pier
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago's lakefront playground stretches six blocks along Lake Michigan with rides, cruises, and shows.
Zoos Wildlife
Lincoln Park Zoo
Chicago, Illinois
See lions, gorillas, and polar bears for free at one of America's oldest zoos.
Theme Parks
Six Flags Great America
Gurnee, Illinois
Seventeen roller coasters earn this 300-acre park its title as the Thrill Capital of the Midwest.
Zoos Wildlife
Brookfield Zoo Chicago
Brookfield, Illinois
Meet bottlenose dolphins, ride a Ferris wheel, and roam open-enclosure habitats at this century-old Chicago-area zoo.
Aquariums
Shedd Aquarium
Chicago, Illinois
A Chicago landmark on the lakefront where penguins, stingrays, and freshwater wonders come within arm's reach.
Trusted by millions of US families every year
Find and book unforgettable family days out across the USA with confidence.