Ferne Clyffe Falls (Ferne Clyffe State Park)

Ferne Clyffe Falls is said to be the most visited waterfall in Illinois, and for good reason; you can actually walk behind this waterfall! Though the flow isn’t always consistent – try going after a big rain to see the most impressive falls – it’s beautiful no matter the weather. It’s fairly easy to get to as well, making it the perfect outing for families. To visit Ferne Clyffe State Park, drive south on IL-37 from Downtown Goreville. In just 2 minutes, you will arrive at the entrance to the park. For more information, click here.

Lake Falls (Matthiessen State Park)

This picture is owned by Tonya Boyd

Canyons, streams, waterfalls, prairie and forest combine to delight visitors at Matthiessen State Park.  One of the  main attractions is, Lake Falls, this is a man made dam with a 65-foot-tall waterfall! Matthiessen State Park is an Illinois state park located a few miles south of the more famous Starved Rock State Park. The main entrances to both parks are located on Illinois State Route 178, the entrance is located at 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348 For more information, click here.

LaSalle Canyon Falls (Starved Rock State Park)

This picture is owned by Tonya Boyd Photography

When its comes to beautiful scenery, very few parks in the Midwest can compare to Starved Rock State Park.  The park boosts more than 13 miles of well marked hiking trails, 18 canyons, and 14 different waterfalls! The best times to see waterfalls are in the spring when the snow and ice melt or after a heavy rainfall. Starved Rock State Park is situated along the south bank of the Illinois River, less than 100 miles from Chicago, at 2668 E 875th Rd., Oglesby, IL 61348. For more information, click here.

Jackson Falls (Shawnee National Forest)

Jackson Falls is one of the best waterfalls in all of Illinois.  During the 5 mile hike to get to the base of the falls, you can also see two other waterfalls, along a beautiful canyon. During the summer months, Jackson Falls is one of the most popular swimming holes in the state.  Jackson Falls is located in Shawnee National Forest at Glen St Falls Rd, Simpson, IL 62985. For more information, click here.

Thunder Bay Falls

Sherri Hasley

No walking is required to view this picture-perfect waterfall. This is a very popular spot for wedding and engagment photos, and has even been featured in several tourism ads both locally and on the state level. Thunder Bay Falls is located in the northwest corner of the state at 248-268 Thunder Bay Rd., Galena, IL 61036. For more information, click here.

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