Our Visit to Mattheissen State Park

Although often overshadowed by Starved Rock State Park, we loved beautiful Matheissen State park which is mere minutes away. When we visited we stayed at the cabins in Starved Rock which we posted about here, and were then conveniently close to Matheissen too. For the best experience check it out on a weekday like we did and have the park all to yourself. Whenever you go prepare for some hiking and some beautiful scenery and rock formations.

Off the Main Parking lot is a large grassy space with a couple picnic tables and a small bathroom facility. The location of the hiking path is not immediately evident but we did figure it out. Looks like a good spot for a little picnic lunch if needed.

The hiking is definitely intermediate level which sometimes includes uneven, rocky or unclear pathways. For us it’s all part of the adventure but should be taken into consideration based upon your groups needs. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, like the tiny turtle we saw along the path. And of course, our pup Memphis had a blast too.

The crowning glory of Matheiseen State Park is absolutely the beautiful Waterfall known as Cascade Falls. It features the stunning sandstone features the area is known for and of course the beauty of the water itself. We visited in the Spring which is reportedly the best time to see the falls due to the high water levels. It is not an easy ( or dry) trek to stand this close but it is a beautiful view no matter what your vantage point.

Matheissen State Park, often overlooked next to Starved Rock should not be missed. We loved accessing Cascade Falls and the beautiful rock formations around it. We came away with some lovely memories and stunning pictures. There are other activities in the area check out our post here.