These 9 Hidden Waterfalls In Illinois Will Take Your Breath Away

There’s something just so awe-inspiring and tranquil about waterfalls, so I try and hike in places where waterfalls are occurring. Waterfalls seem like something that would be in very mountainous regions–not flat Illinois. If you’ve ever wondered about waterfalls near me in Illinois, you may be surprised to find out that there are some really great waterfalls hiding around the state. Here are ten of the best waterfalls you can find in Illinois:

LaSalle Canyon, Lasalle Canyon, Deer Park Township, IL 61348, USA

John/Flickr

If you're looking for things to do in Illinois, hiking to one of the canyons at Starved Rock State Park is always a good idea. LaSalle Canyon, pictured here, has an impressive waterfall that you can even walk behind.

Read our previous coverage on LaSalle Canyon to learn more.

Burden Falls, Illinois 62987, USA

Curtis Abert/Flickr

Located within Burden Falls Wilderness, this waterfall may be small, but it's sure one of the prettiest hidden gems in Illinois!

Visit the webpage to learn more about Burden Falls.

North Utica, IL 61373, USA

Mike/Flickr

Located within Matthiessen State Park, this waterfall is a lovely sight to behold.

Visit the webpage to learn more about Matthiessen State Park and its waterfalls.

Murphysboro, IL 62966, USA

Curtis Abert/Flickr

Located at the end of Kinkaid Lake, this spillway forms a pool and is a popular swimming hole during the summer.

Visit the webpage to learn more about Kinkaid Lake.

Jovan J/Flickr

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is one of the most impressive hidden gems in Illinois with a beautiful waterfall you can hike to.

Visit AllTrails for trail information at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve.

Saint Louis Canyon, St Louis Canyon, Deer Park Township, IL 61348, USA

Richie Diestersheft/Flickr

St. Louis Canyon's waterfall is spring-fed and one of the longest-lasting falls in Starved Rock State Park.

Visit the webpage to learn more about St. Louis Canyon Waterfall.

Hennepin Canyon Overlook, IL-71, Oglesby, IL 61348, USA

Justin Meissen/Flickr

The waterfall at Hennepin Canyon is dependent on the rain, but when it's flowing, it's quite lovely. And if you're looking to go hiking in Illinois, the trail to the canyon is 3.1 miles from the Visitors Center.

Visit the webpage to learn more about Hennepin Canyon.

Ferne Clyffe State Park, 90 Goreville Rd, Goreville, IL 62939, USA

Curtis Abert/Flickr

At Ferne Clyffe State Park, you can take a hike past fascinating rock formations and eventually come to a gorgeous waterfall. Hiking in Illinois doesn't get better than this!

Read our previous coverage on Ferne Clyffe State Park to learn more.

Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve, 35W003 State Rte 31, South Elgin, IL 60177, USA

Chris Bartnik/Flickr

Located within the Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve is this waterfall known as Blackhawk Waterfall, one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Illinois.

Read our previous coverage on Blackhawk Waterfall to learn more.

If you’ve searched for “waterfalls near me in Illinois,” now you know there are quite a few. But do you know of any other waterfalls hiding around the state? Let us know in the comments.

The OIYS Visitor Center

Waterfalls Near Me In Illinois

September 03, 2021

Melissa M.

Where can I go hiking in Illinois?

With numerous state parks and forest preserves, there are more than enough hiking trails around Illinois. Visit our article on nine scenic hikes under three miles that lead to someplace spectacular for your next adventure.

What are some hidden gems in Illinois?

Illinois is full of some fantastic hidden gems. Take our Hidden Gem Road Trip that will take you to several lesser-known spots around the state. 

What are some of the most unique things to do in Illinois?

For something different, maybe take a scenic train ride to see some of Illinois’ most beautiful sights. You can also take a day trip and explore one of the charming small towns around the state.