Whitewater Kayaking in Illinois

Though limited, the state of Illinois offers a number of white-water paddling routes. White-water stretches include Cedar Creek, Bailey Creek, Piney Branch River and others. Whether you are an experienced or a beginner paddler, many resources are available in Illinois to improve your skills and explore waters of varying difficulty levels.

  1. Rivers

    • White-water rivers flowing through Illinois include Bear Branch in Pope County and Fox River in DuPage and Kane County. Fox River spans half a mile long and is rated as Class I-II (IV) by American Whitewater. Though limited white water is available, the river has various put-ins from south of Elgin to the confluence of the Fox and Illinois rivers. Paddlers can enjoy miles of country scenery from the Yorkville south section, where you can also find shuttle service. Bear Branch is rated as Class III and is 4 miles in length. A put-in location is available in Harrisburg.

    Kayak Outfitters

    • Kayak outfitters such as the Fever River Outfitters in Galena and Kayak Chicago offer white-water kayak rentals. Kayak rentals are priced daily and come with all the necessary equipment. You also can purchase used kayaks from many outfitters. Brands such as Heritage kayaks, Emotion kayaks, Wave Sport and Eskimo are available for rent and purchase.

    Regulations

    • You must register your kayak with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to paddle within state waters. Initial registration is valid for three years and must be renewed thereafter. If you are a nonresident paddler, you are not required to register your boat in Illinois but must abide by your own state laws.

    Chicago Whitewater Association

    • Join the Chicago Whitewater Association to meet other paddlers and participate in white-water trips in the greater Chicago area. Newcomers are provided with information regarding Midwest paddling opportunities. The Chicago Whitewater Association is also a useful resource for locating various creeks and streams for white-water kayaking across the state.

    Services

    • Services such as guided tours and white-water kayak lessons are available in Illinois. You can take white-water kayaking lessons from various outfitters and other businesses. The Chicago Whitewater Association sponsors beginner pool classes to introduce newcomers to white-water boating. Skills such as different strokes and braces are taught. Instructions also include safety tips and survival tactics.