Matthiessen State Park - map and other informations

Description

Matthiessen State Park is a beautiful natural area located in LaSalle County, Illinois. It was established in 1943 and covers an area of approximately 1,938 acres. The park is named after Frederick William Matthiessen, who purchased the land in the late 19th century and developed it into a private estate.

Activities

Matthiessen State Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular activities is hiking, as the park features several scenic trails that wind through canyons, forests, and along the banks of the Vermilion River. The trails vary in difficulty, so there are options for both casual walkers and experienced hikers.

In addition to hiking, visitors can also go fishing in the Vermilion River or one of the park's many ponds. The river is stocked with trout and other fish species, making it a great spot for anglers. Canoeing and kayaking are also popular activities on the river.

The park has picnic areas with tables and grills, making it a great place for a family outing or a picnic with friends. There are also several shelters available for rent if you're planning a larger gathering or event.

Sights

One of the main attractions at Matthiessen State Park is its unique geological formations. The park is known for its canyons, which were formed by erosion over thousands of years. The canyons feature towering sandstone walls and picturesque waterfalls that make for stunning photo opportunities.

The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including deer, foxes, raccoons, and various bird species. Birdwatchers will especially enjoy visiting Matthiessen State Park as it provides ample opportunities to spot different types of birds in their natural habitat.

Facilities

Matthiessen State Park offers several facilities to enhance visitors' experience. There is a visitor center where you can learn more about the park's history, geology, and wildlife. The center also has restrooms and drinking water available.

The park has ample parking areas, including designated spots for RVs and trailers. There are also camping facilities for those who wish to spend the night in the park. The campground features both tent and RV sites, as well as shower and restroom facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Matthiessen State Park

Is there an entrance fee for Matthiessen State Park?

Yes, there is an entrance fee for Matthiessen State Park. As of 2021, the fee is $5 per vehicle for Illinois residents and $10 per vehicle for out-of-state visitors.

Are pets allowed in Matthiessen State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed in Matthiessen State Park. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times and are not allowed in certain areas such as picnic areas or buildings.

Are there camping facilities at Matthiessen State Park?

Yes, Matthiessen State Park has camping facilities. The campground offers both tent and RV sites, as well as shower and restroom facilities. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.

	Temp max	Temp min	Rain	Snow
Jan	0 °C 32 °F	-8 °C 18 °F	31 mm 1.2 in	18 mm 0.7 in
Feb	1 °C 34 °F	-8 °C 18 °F	32 mm 1.3 in	18 mm 0.7 in
Mar	10 °C 50 °F	0 °C 32 °F	63 mm 2.5 in	9 mm 0.4 in
Apr	15 °C 59 °F	5 °C 41 °F	105 mm 4.1 in	3 mm 0.1 in
May	22 °C 72 °F	12 °C 54 °F	131 mm 5.2 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jun	27 °C 81 °F	17 °C 63 °F	126 mm 5.0 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jul	28 °C 82 °F	19 °C 66 °F	86 mm 3.4 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Aug	28 °C 82 °F	19 °C 66 °F	75 mm 3.0 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Sep	25 °C 77 °F	15 °C 59 °F	71 mm 2.8 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Oct	17 °C 63 °F	9 °C 48 °F	99 mm 3.9 in	2 mm 0.1 in
Nov	9 °C 48 °F	1 °C 34 °F	46 mm 1.8 in	6 mm 0.2 in
Dec	4 °C 39 °F	-4 °C 25 °F	49 mm 1.9 in	7 mm 0.3 in