Located in the North-Eastern part of Illinois, Matthiessen State Park provides one of the nearest opportunities to get into nature from the Chicago metro area. This park is family and pet friendly and offeres both boardwalk-style and natural-style trails. It is also a less-crowded and more natural option than nearby Starved Rock State Park. Matthiessen boasts fewer visitors and greater opportunities for solitude and relaxation than its more popular neighbor.
Trails exist both around the perimeter of the canyon and on its floor. From the top you can look down on beautiful waterfalls and walk along tree-lined paths. On the canyon floor there are sandy washes, rock walls, and waterfalls to explore.
