Matthiessen State Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Matthiessen State Park is a natural park located in LaSalle County, Illinois.
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Summary
It covers an area of approximately 1,900 acres, and it is known for its stunning geological formations, wildlife, and hiking trails.
One of the primary reasons to visit Matthiessen State Park is to experience its unique and beautiful landscapes. The park features deep, sandstone canyons, waterfalls, and lush greenery. Visitors can take the park's many trails to explore these areas, including the popular Dells Canyon trail.
Aside from its natural beauty, Matthiessen State Park also has several interesting historical and cultural points of interest. The park is home to several historic structures, such as the Deer Park Bridge, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Additionally, the park offers various recreational activities, including camping, fishing, and picnicking. Visitors can also enjoy horseback riding and cross-country skiing in the winter.
The best time to visit Matthiessen State Park is in the spring or fall, as the weather is mild, and the foliage is beautiful. However, it is open year-round, and each season has its unique charm.
Overall, Matthiessen State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, hiking, and outdoor recreation. Its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and recreational opportunities make it a favorite among visitors and locals alike.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Margery C. Carlson Nature Preserve
Lehigh Memorial Park
Dickinson Field
Starved Rock State Park
Catlin Park of Lasalle County