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It was an estate that hosted a private park known as "Deer Park". [3] The park was donated to Illinois by Matthiessen's heirs, following his death in 1918, and was renamed in his honor in 1943. Since then, land was added, growing the park to 1,938 acres (784 ha). [2]
Matthiessen State Park was named after Fredrick William Matthiessen who was a huge industrialist from LaSalle. The park was purchased in the late 19th century and was originally a privately owned park and used to be called Deer Park in reference to the large population of deer.
The park was renamed Matthiessen State Park. Since then, holdings have grown to 1,938 acres, including former prairie land and forest land south of the original park and significant natural areas along the main canyon.
After Matthiessen’s death, his family donated Deer Park to the state to be preserved as a nature area and wildlife sanctuary. The park was renamed Matthiessen State Park in his honor.
- Things to Do
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Wandering past all the diverse geological features is a must-do activity while in the park. The Upper and Lower Dells exist in the main canyon, which is a highlight to investigate on foot. Begin at...Be sure to look for little critters up high as well as underfoot, hiding in the park’s natural pockets, where mineral-rich ground water percolates out of the sandstone crevices and walls. Rock dove...Picnicking is a popular family-friendly activity, and you’ll find that the park has many spots that can accommodate your group in the Dells Area. Picnic tables, water fountains, toilets and even a...From December through March, visitors can cross country ski on 6 miles of trails. And, if you don’t have your own skies, you can rent equipment on the weekends (seasonal).Matthiessen State Park has 5 miles of well-marked trailsthat range in difficulty from easy to moderate. No matter where you are on the trail, you’ll find simple-to-see maps at each major intersection. For smooth terrain, without a lot of difficulty, hike on the bluffs in the upper section of the park. The trails that flow between the two dells are ...
From May to October, there is an equestrian campground,offered on a first come first served basis, only for horseback riders. If you want to camp outside of the park, there are a few nearby options. 1. Starved Rock State Park Campground:: RV, camper, or tent sites are available at this campground and must be reserved. Bathrooms, showers, a playgrou...
In addition to vacation rentals through Airbnb or Vrbo, there are affordable accommodations nearby that are suitable for families. 1. Best Western Oglesby Inn: Cost-effective, pet friendly, and close by, the Best Western has a heated indoor swimming pool and hot tub, a light breakfast, and a fitness center. 2. Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Cent...
Located 96 miles southwest of Chicago, you’ll need to leave early to make the most of your day. The park is open from 7 a.m. until sunset but closes when it reaches capacity (weekends are the busiest time). From the city, you’ll take I-55 south to I-80 west to IL-178 south. You’ll drive over the Illinois River and pass I-71 and then see the entranc...
Due to a lot of safety concerns, you’ll have to adhere to the guidelines set in place. The park has many areas that are slippery when wet or muddy and there are rugged cliffs and drop offs. The trails are there to maintain the landscape and to ensure the health of the wildlife as well as to keep you safe from harm. 1. No swimming is allowed in the ...
check dams. The area was originally referred to as “Deer Park,” in reference to the large deer population. The orig-inal 176-acre park consisted primarily of a long narrow canyon with a small stream flowing through it. At that time these formations were called “dells,” a name that has stayed with the park. After Matthiessen’s death ...
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Who designed Frederick William Matthiessen at Deer Park?
In 1943, the state renamed the park in honor of Matthiessen. Since then, the park has grown to 1,938 acres and includes much of the significant natural land along the main dell, some former prairie land, and some forest land south of the original park.
