If you’re looking to make your summer utterly fabulous and filled with marvelous views (and photo-worthy trips), you’ll definitely want to check out some of the best waterfalls in Illinois. We’re lucky here in the Land of Lincoln: we’re chock full of falls that are relatively easy to get to. Check out some of our favorite, easy waterfall hikes in Illinois.

1. Matthiessen State Park: 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348

Matthiessen State Park, 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348, USA
Google/Jason Leverton
Matthiessen State Park may not be as well-known as Starved Rock State Park, but it happens to contain one of the best hiking trails with waterfalls in Illinois. It's got a magnificent waterfall that's very easy to access if you don't mind a relatively short hike.
Google/Mitch Miller
If you're looking for "easy hikes near me with waterfalls," this is an easy 2.5-mile loop trail that will take you past one of the best Illinois waterfalls in this part of the state. This waterfall is situated just off of the Illinois River and nearly always offers a sight to see. The surrounding forest is nearly as wondrous to view. It's not surprising that this is considered one of the most beautiful parks in Illinois.

2. Kinkaid Lake Spillway in the Shawnee National Forest: 432 N Spillway Rd, Gorham, IL 62940

Kinkaid Lake Spillway, Shawnee National Forest, 432 N Spillway Rd, Gorham, IL 62940, USA
Google/Zafarul Azam
Situated at the end of Lake Kinkaid, this three-tiered waterfall is one of our favorite hidden gems in Illinois. It's stunning, but few people even know it exists! It's a great, easy-access waterfall that's tucked away in the trees.

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Google/Jim Avery
If you visit, you'll find a swimming pool at its base, perfect for cooling off on a muggy day. The rocks are great for climbing but can be slippery, so make sure to navigate them with care. No matter how old you are, there's not much in life better than a dip in a swimming hole on a hot summer's day.

3. Thunder Bay Falls: 233 Thunder Bay Rd, Galena, IL 61036

Thunder Bay Falls (PRIVATE), 233 Thunder Bay Rd, Galena, IL 61036, USA
TripAdvisor/Imstax82
This waterfall in northern Illinois is mighty and majestic. You're able to get a great view of it, but the nearby trails are restricted to those who are staying in nearby bed and breakfasts.
Google/Jim Manson
A small river runs beneath the falls, but swimming is not encouraged. The water does dry up some in the summer, so this one's best visited in the springtime after the snow thaws.

4. Krape Park: 1799 S Park Blvd, Freeport, IL 61032

Krape Park, 1799 Park Blvd, Freeport, IL 61032, USA
Google/MARK BRACHTEL
This unique recreation center includes numerous activities for guests to enjoy. There's a pond, baseball diamond, golf course, trails to explore, playgrounds, a carousel, and an amphitheater. But perhaps the real star of the park is its 44-foot waterfall! This multi-purpose park in Illinois offers great fun for the whole family!

What other easy-access waterfalls do you love in the Prairie State? We especially love to hear about hiking trails with waterfalls in Illinois! Share your favorites with us in the comments.

For more places you’re sure to enjoy, check out these 10 hidden waterfalls in Illinois that are perfect for summer.  If you plan on taking a road trip anywhere in Illinois, check out the list of available vacation rentals on Vrbo.

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More to Explore

Waterfalls In Illinois

Lisa Sammons | March 09, 2022

What are some other waterfalls near me in Illinois?

There are so many great waterfalls in Illinois, including the following:

  • One of the prettiest is located in LaSalle Canyon: you can even walk directly behind some of the waterfalls there to experience a whole new vantage point!
  • Burden Falls in Pope County is small but so pretty.
  • Located at Matthiessen State Park, Cave Falls is worth a visit.

What are the best parks in Illinois?

Check out these ten state parks in Illinois that are some of our very favorites. They're filled with plants, animals, trails, and natural wonders that will make for a fantastic day trip on a warm day!

Are there any good swimming holes in Illinois to enjoy in the summertime?

No matter how old you are, dipping into a swimming hole in Illinois will have you feeling like a kid again. There's no better way to cool off on a hot summer's day! One of the best swimming holes in the state is at Ferne Cliff State Park, home to Bork Falls. You can actually swim right under the falls in the peaceful blue-green pool at the bottom.

 

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