Starved Rock & Matthiessen State Parks, IL
Today’s Forecast:
Today’s Report:
Hiking
Good for hiking. High near 42°F. Light wind (15 mph).
- Temp: Marginal weather factor
- Rain: Favorable conditions
- Wind: Favorable conditions
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
Camping
Good for camping. High near 42°F. Breezy winds (15 mph).
- Temp: Marginal weather factor
- Rain: Favorable conditions
- Wind: Marginal weather factor
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
Fishing
Use Caution for fishing. High near 42°F. Breezy winds (15 mph).
- Temp: Marginal weather factor
- Rain: Favorable conditions
- Wind: Marginal weather factor
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
About Starved Rock & Matthiessen State Parks
Visitors use this forecast for both separate canyon trail systems, Starved Rock campground and designated river fishing access; conditions can change quickly between sheltered and exposed facilities.
Planning an Outing
Review flash flooding, waterfall flow, stairs, limited exits, trail ice, falling ice, river stage, construction and crowding before leaving. The representative point cannot replace a trail, harbor, river, campground or event status notice.
Weather Tips
- For this sandstone canyons above a major river, read the gauge trend and upstream rainfall because current and floating debris can change after local skies clear.
- Before camping at sandstone canyons above a major river, confirm loops, water service and gate hours with the managing agency.
- Starved Rock’s 2026 construction makes several eastern canyons inaccessible in phases, while Matthiessen’s Lake Falls bridge remains closed with a detour.
- Never enter a canyon during flooding or falling-ice conditions, and do not imply paddling inside the hiking canyons.
Nearby Towns and Areas
- Utica
- Starved Rock
- Matthiessen Dells
- Illinois River
- St. Louis Canyon
- French Canyon
Adjust the Day to the Forecast
Move to shore or a short protected trail when wind, waves, flow or access is unsuitable; otherwise, delay campsite setup until warned wind or lightning passes.
7-Day Forecast
Weather by Season
Winter
Freeze-thaw cycles leave shaded parts of this sandstone canyons above a major river icy while exposed ground softens; verify roads and gates after storms.
Spring
Basin-wide rain can raise water and move debris through this sandstone canyons above a major river; low access may remain closed after the crest.
Summer
Afternoon wind and lightning can end a water window on this sandstone canyons above a major river; warm water may also bring advisories.
Fall
Cold water arrives before winter air on this sandstone canyons above a major river; stronger fronts shorten launch windows and seasonal facilities reduce hours.
Key Climate Data Points
- Local climate: This local planning area has an annual average temperature about 52–55°F, receives roughly 38–43 inches of precipitation and records commonly 15–25 inches.
- Wettest season: Spring and early summer.
- Driest season: Late summer and early fall.
- Annual average temperature: About 52–55°f.
- Annual snowfall: Commonly 15–25 inches.