Best Places to Kayak in Illinois: Discover the Top Spots for Paddling

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Illinois is a state that offers a diverse range of kayaking experiences for paddlers of all levels. From the calm waters of lakes and rivers to the more challenging rapids, Illinois has something to offer everyone. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced kayaker, there are plenty of places to explore in the Prairie State.

One of the best places to kayak in Illinois is the Chicago River. Paddling down the river offers a unique perspective of the city’s iconic skyline. The river has several launch points, making it accessible to kayakers of all levels. Another great place to kayak in Illinois is the Mississippi River.

The Mighty Mississippi is one of America’s most historic rivers, and kayaking down its waters offers a chance to explore its beauty and rich history.

Illinois also has several state parks that offer kayaking opportunities. Starved Rock State Park is one of the most popular parks in the state and offers kayaking on the Illinois River. The park has several launch points, making it easy to explore the river and its canyons.

Matthiessen State Park is another popular destination for kayakers. The park’s canyons and waterfalls provide a stunning backdrop for a day of kayaking.

Why Illinois for Kayaking?

Illinois is an excellent destination for kayaking enthusiasts of all skill levels. With a diverse range of waterways, from Lake Michigan to the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers, to placid lakes and reservoirs, to the spectacular wetlands of the Big Muddy, there is something for everyone. Here are a few reasons why Illinois is a great place to go kayaking:

Variety of Waterways

Illinois has a wide variety of waterways, from the Great Lakes to small streams, making it a great destination for kayaking. The state’s waterways offer something for every level of kayaker, from beginner to advanced. Whether you prefer calm, placid lakes or fast-moving rivers with rapids, you’ll find it in Illinois.

Scenic Beauty

Illinois’s waterways are surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and rolling hills. Kayaking offers a unique perspective on the state’s natural beauty, allowing you to explore areas that are inaccessible by foot or car. You’ll have the opportunity to see wildlife up close, including birds, fish, and other aquatic creatures.

Accessibility

Kayaking is a popular activity in Illinois, and there are plenty of outfitters, rental shops, and guided tours available to help you get started. Many of the state’s parks and recreational areas offer kayak rentals, making it easy to get out on the water and enjoy the scenery. Additionally, many of Illinois’s waterways are located near major cities, making them easily accessible for day trips or weekend getaways.

Illinois is a fantastic destination for kayaking enthusiasts of all skill levels. With a variety of waterways, scenic beauty, and accessibility, it’s no wonder that kayaking is such a popular activity in the state.

The Mississippi River

The Mississippi River is a popular destination for kayaking in Illinois. With its calm waters and stunning scenery, it’s no wonder why many kayakers flock to this area. There are several areas along the Mississippi River that are great for kayaking, including the Quad Cities and the Alton Area.

Quad Cities

The Quad Cities area is a great place to start your kayaking adventure on the Mississippi River. Located on the border of Illinois and Iowa, the Quad Cities consist of four cities: Davenport and Bettendorf in Iowa, and Moline and Rock Island in Illinois. The area has several access points for kayakers, including Sunset Marina in Rock Island and Ben Butterworth Parkway in Moline.

One of the most popular kayaking routes in the Quad Cities is the Hennepin Canal. This 155-mile canal runs from the Illinois River to the Mississippi River and is a great spot for kayakers of all skill levels. The canal is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including forests, wetlands, and prairies.

Alton Area

The Alton Area is another great spot for kayaking on the Mississippi River. Located in southern Illinois, the Alton Area is home to several access points for kayakers, including Piasa Harbor and the Alton Marina.

One of the most popular kayaking routes in the Alton Area is the Great River Road. This scenic route runs along the Mississippi River and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding bluffs. Kayakers can also explore the many backwaters and sloughs in the area, which are home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, herons, and beavers.

The Mississippi River is a great destination for kayaking in Illinois. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, there are plenty of routes and access points to choose from. Just be sure to check the weather conditions and water levels before you go, and always wear a life jacket for safety.

Chicago Area

Chicago is a bustling city with plenty of opportunities for kayaking. The Chicago River and Lake Michigan offer some of the best kayaking experiences in the area.

Chicago River

The Chicago River runs through the heart of the city and offers kayakers the chance to explore the city from a unique perspective. The river has a number of access points, making it easy to launch your kayak and start exploring.

One of the most popular stretches of the river for kayaking is the downtown area, also known as the “Skyscraper Canyon.” Here, kayakers can paddle past towering buildings and under-steel drawbridges, taking in the impressive city skyline.

For those looking for a more relaxed paddle, the river also has calmer stretches, such as the Jackson Park Lagoon. Kayakers can also head upstream to explore the tree-lined North Branch of the river.

Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world and offers kayakers a chance to paddle along its beautiful shoreline. With miles of beaches and crystal-clear water, Lake Michigan is a popular destination for kayakers.

The lake can be unpredictable, with changing weather patterns and strong currents, so it’s important to check the weather forecast and conditions before heading out. However, on calm days, kayakers can paddle along the shoreline, taking in the stunning views of the city skyline and the lake itself.

Kayakers can also explore the harbors and marinas along the lake, such as the Burnham Harbor and Monroe Harbor. These areas offer calm waters and a chance to see some of the city’s impressive boats and yachts up close.

The Chicago area offers some of the best kayaking experiences in Illinois. With the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, kayakers can explore the city and the lake from a unique perspective, taking in the impressive skyline and beautiful shoreline.

Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park is a popular destination for kayaking in Illinois. The park is located in LaSalle County and is known for its scenic canyons, waterfalls, and sandstone bluffs. The Illinois River flows through the park, providing ample opportunities for kayaking.

Kayakers can explore the canyons and bluffs by water, which is the best way to see and explore the park. Kayak Starved Rock offers two kayak tours each Saturday and Sunday. These tours are led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the park’s history and geology.

For those who prefer to go kayaking on their own, the park has several launch points along the Illinois River. The park also has a network of both year-round and seasonal camping clusters, making it a great place to spend a weekend or longer.

It is important to note that kayaking in the park can be challenging, especially during periods of high water. Kayakers should be experienced and have the necessary equipment, including a properly fitted life jacket and a whistle. It is also recommended to check the weather forecast and river conditions before heading out.

Starved Rock State Park is a must-visit destination for kayakers in Illinois. With its stunning natural beauty and ample opportunities for kayaking, it is sure to be a memorable experience for all who visit.

Kankakee River State Park

Kankakee River State Park is a popular destination for kayaking enthusiasts in Illinois. The park is located between Illinois Route 102 on the north and Illinois Route 113 on the south, making it easily accessible by car.

The Kankakee River is a great spot for fishing, with smallmouth bass, channel catfish, walleye, and northern pike being some of the most common catches. Kayakers can also enjoy the scenic beauty of the river, with its clear waters and diverse wildlife.

For those interested in camping, the park offers several options. The Chippewa Campgrounds have 98 sites, with electricity available in Class BE sites and no electricity or showers in Class C sites. The Potawatomi Campground has 110 sites with showers and electricity in a wooded setting. Reservations are taken for Kankakee River Class A, BE, and C campgrounds.

Visitors to the park can also enjoy hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching. The park has several trails, including the River Trail, which follows the Kankakee River for 11 miles and offers stunning views of the river and its surroundings.

Kankakee River State Park is a must-visit destination for kayaking enthusiasts in Illinois. With its scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and convenient location, it’s no wonder why it’s such a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Fox River

The Fox River is one of the most popular and picturesque destinations for kayaking in Illinois. The river stretches over 200 miles, from Wisconsin to Illinois, and offers a variety of paddling experiences for different skill levels.

The Fox River has a few sandbars, and the river is about 4-5 feet deep on average. However, there are spots that are much deeper and also some spots that are much shallower. The lower Fox River, in particular, is a great place to canoe and kayak, as it is not dammed and retains most of its original beauty in the stretch between Yorkville and Wedron.

There are several access points along the Fox River, including Cornish Park in Algonquin and Silver Springs State Park in Yorkville. Visitors can rent kayaks from local outfitters like Yak Shack LLC, which also offers whitewater kayaking classes at the Marge Cline Whitewater Course.

For those looking for a more challenging kayaking experience, the Fox River has several dams that require portaging. The Fox River from Yorkville to Ottawa is a popular section for kayaking and canoeing, but it does require portaging at the Dayton Dam and the Marseilles Dam.

The Fox River is a great destination for kayaking in Illinois, offering a range of experiences for both novice and experienced paddlers.

Cache River

One of the best-kept secrets in Illinois for kayaking is the Cache River. The Cache River State Natural Area is a 11,500-acre area that contains remnant examples of high-quality wetlands. It is an ideal spot for kayaking enthusiasts looking for a peaceful and serene experience.

The Cache River offers a unique kayaking experience through magnificent cypress-tupelo swamp for canoes, kayaks, and jon boats. The three-to-six mile canoe trail is marked with international canoe symbols and arrows and/or yellow stripes on trees. The Lower Cache Access off Perks Road provides a public boat launch for kayakers.

Before embarking on your own paddle exploration of the Lower Cache River Canoe Trail, you may wish to familiarize yourself with your surroundings. The Barkhausen-Cache River Wetlands Center is the best place for that. The center is located just 5 miles west of Vienna, IL, on Route 146 from the intersection of Rt. 146 & US Rt. 45.

Kayaking in the Cache River is an unforgettable experience. The bald cypress and tupelo trees, which are at their most northern range, rise majestically from a carpet of intensely green duckweed. The area is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including river otters, beavers, and numerous bird species. Overall, the Cache River is a must-visit spot for kayaking enthusiasts looking for a unique and peaceful experience.

Skokie Lagoons

Skokie Lagoons is a popular kayaking destination located in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. The 894-acre lagoons offer a variety of water exploration activities, including public boat access, canoe and kayak rentals, and fishing.

One of the main attractions of Skokie Lagoons is its diverse wildlife. Visitors can spot a variety of birds, turtles, and fish while kayaking through the lagoons. The lagoons also have several biking and hiking trails and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.

Accessible boat launch and canoe and kayak rentals are available at Tower Road, making it easy for visitors to explore the lagoons. Fishing is also a popular activity at Skokie Lagoons, with a variety of fish species available, including largemouth bass, northern pike, and catfish.

Skokie Lagoons is a great option for kayaking enthusiasts looking for a peaceful and scenic location to explore in Illinois.

The Vermilion River

The Vermilion River is a popular destination for kayaking in Illinois. It offers a variety of paddling experiences, from calm and peaceful stretches to exciting Class II-III rapids. The river is located in eastern Illinois, with most of the paddling opportunities downstream of Hwy 52.

One of the best things about kayaking on the Vermilion River is the stunning scenery. The river winds through towering cliffs, wetland prairies, and sandstone bluffs. Wildlife is abundant, and paddlers can often spot birds, turtles, and fish. The river is also known for its excellent fishing, with smallmouth bass, catfish, and other species found in its waters.

There are several access points along the Vermilion River for kayaking and canoeing. Kickapoo State Park and the Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area both offer opportunities for paddling on the river. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at both locations, as well as at other outfitters in the area.

It’s important to note that water levels on the Vermilion River can vary greatly depending on the season and recent rainfall. Paddlers should check water levels before heading out and be prepared for changing conditions. Overall, the Vermilion River is a great destination for kayaking in Illinois, offering a mix of natural beauty and fun paddling opportunities.

Safety Tips for Kayaking in Illinois

Kayaking is a fun and exciting activity, but it’s important to prioritize safety when out on the water. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when kayaking in Illinois:

1. Wear a Life Jacket

A life jacket is a must-have when kayaking in Illinois. Even if you’re a strong swimmer, unexpected accidents can happen. Wearing a life jacket can help keep you afloat and increase your chances of survival in case of an emergency.

2. Check the Weather

Before heading out on the water, be sure to check the weather forecast. Avoid kayaking during storms, high winds, or any other weather conditions that could make the water rough or dangerous.

3. Know Your Limits

It’s important to know your limits when kayaking. Don’t attempt to paddle in conditions that are beyond your skill level. Stick to calm waters if you’re a beginner, and gradually work your way up to more challenging conditions.

4. Stay Hydrated

Kayaking can be a physically demanding activity, especially on a hot day. Be sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid heat exhaustion.

5. Bring a First Aid Kit

Accidents can happen, so it’s a good idea to bring a first aid kit with you on your kayaking trip. Include items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.

6. Let Someone Know Your Plans

Before heading out on the water, let someone know your plans. Tell them where you’ll be kayaking, how long you plan to be out, and when you expect to return. This way, if something goes wrong, someone will know to look for you.

By following these safety tips, you can have a fun and safe kayaking experience in Illinois.

Best Time to Kayak in Illinois

Illinois has a variety of waterways to explore, from the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers to placid lakes and reservoirs. The best time to kayak in Illinois depends on the type of waterway you plan to explore and the weather conditions.

Spring

Spring is a great time to kayak in Illinois, especially for those who enjoy a bit of adventure. The water levels are high, and the rapids are more challenging. However, the weather can be unpredictable, and it can rain frequently during this season. It’s essential to check the weather forecast before heading out on the water.

Summer

Summer is the most popular time to kayak in Illinois because of the warm weather and clear skies. It’s an excellent time for beginners to start kayaking and explore the less challenging waterways. However, it can get crowded on the water during peak season, so it’s best to plan your trip early and avoid weekends.

Fall

Fall is a beautiful time to kayak in Illinois because of the stunning foliage and cooler temperatures. The water levels are generally lower, making it easier to navigate the waterways. However, it’s essential to check the weather forecast for any sudden temperature drops or storms.

Winter

Winter is not the best time to kayak in Illinois because of the cold temperatures and frozen waterways. However, some kayakers still enjoy exploring the frozen waterways during this season. It’s essential to wear appropriate cold-weather gear and check the ice thickness before heading out on the water.

In summary, the best time to kayak in Illinois depends on your preference and the type of waterway you plan to explore. It’s essential to check the weather forecast and wear appropriate gear for the season to ensure a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience.

Final Thoughts on Best Places to Kayak in Illinois

Illinois is a top destination for kayaking enthusiasts, with a wide variety of waterways to explore. From the mighty Mississippi River to the tranquil lakes and reservoirs, there is something for everyone. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced kayaker, Illinois has plenty of options to choose from.

Some of the top kayaking spots in Illinois include the Kankakee River, Starved Rock State Park, Cache River, and the Wisconsin River. Each of these locations offers unique scenery and challenges, making them ideal for kayakers of all skill levels.

When planning your kayaking trip in Illinois, be sure to consider factors such as weather conditions, water levels, and safety precautions. Always wear a life jacket and check the weather forecast before heading out on the water.

In addition to the natural beauty of Illinois’ waterways, there are also many kayaking tours and rentals available. These can be a great option for beginners or those who want to explore a new area with the guidance of an experienced guide.

Illinois is a fantastic destination for kayaking enthusiasts. With its diverse range of waterways and opportunities for adventure, it is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves to paddle.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Places to Kayak in Illinois

What are some scenic rivers for kayaking in Illinois?

Illinois has several scenic rivers perfect for kayaking, such as the Fox River, Kishwaukee River, and Vermilion River. These rivers offer breathtaking views of nature, and kayaking through them is a great way to unwind and relax.

Are there any restrictions on kayaking in Illinois?

Yes, there are some restrictions on kayaking in Illinois. For example, you must wear a life jacket at all times while kayaking, and you cannot kayak in areas marked as no-wake zones. Additionally, kayaking is not allowed in certain areas of Lake Michigan due to safety concerns.

What are the best places to go kayaking near Starved Rock?

If you’re looking for a great kayaking spot near Starved Rock, you should check out the Illinois River, Vermilion River, and Mazon River. These rivers offer a variety of kayaking experiences, from calm and peaceful to more challenging rapids.

Can I kayak on the Illinois River?

Yes, you can kayak on the Illinois River. The Illinois River is a popular kayaking spot in Illinois, and there are several access points along the river where you can launch your kayak.

Are there any camping spots near the best places to kayak in Illinois?

Yes, there are several camping spots near good kayaking locations in Illinois. For example, Ayers Landing in Wedron offers camping space and also offers drop off for a nominal fee. Other great camping spots include Starved Rock State Park and Mississippi Palisades State Park.

What are the kayak laws in Illinois?

In Illinois, you must wear a life jacket at all times while kayaking, and you cannot kayak in areas marked as no-wake zones. Additionally, you must have a valid registration sticker on your kayak if it is over 10 feet long. It’s important to follow these laws to ensure your safety and the safety of others while kayaking in Illinois.