Matthiessen State Park

Matthiessen sits just downstream from Starved Rock but draws maybe a quarter of the crowds. The park centers on a series of sandstone canyons carved by Matthiessen Creek, with seasonal waterfalls that run strong in spring and after heavy rains. The campground holds 15 sites in a wooded area above the canyons — basic tent camping with vault toilets and hand pumps, but no hookups or showers. Sites fill on summer weekends but midweek stays are usually no problem.

Access is straightforward off Route 178, about 3 miles south of LaSalle. The canyon trails require some scrambling over wet rocks, especially near the falls. Winter access can be limited when ice makes the trails dangerous. Best visited April through October when the waterfalls are most active.

Starved Rock's quieter cousin with sandstone canyons