State Parks and National Parks

Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Park Information

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Waterfalls, tall bluffs and canyons carved by the Illinois River dominate the landscapes in Starved Rock and Matthiessen state parks, two miles apart on Route 178 in northern Illinois.

Starved Rock has 13 miles of hiking trails and 133 campsites that can accommodate tents and trailers.

The fishing is outstanding for walleye, sauger and several species of bass at Starved Rock in spring.

Matthiessen State Park also offers spectacular views of bluffs and canyons, but has no camping facilities.

Matthiessen does have five miles of hiking trails and nine miles of horse trails, which are also used by cross-country skiers.

The parks are home to squirrels, foxes and white-tailed deer, and park rangers lead guided hikes.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Courtesy of Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Courtesy of Illinois Department of Natural Resources.