Illinois serves up excellent paddling opportunities, with well-organized guided tours that make it easy to explore by water.
My favorite excursion runs from Chicago, offering a professional guide and top equipment for $88 – an excellent value given the stellar reviews and 20-person capacity.
The Starved Rock State Park tour ($65) stands out for its stunning limestone cliffs and intimate two-hour format.
For families, I particularly recommend the tandem kayaking at Starved Rock Campground, just 60 minutes from Chicago, which handles groups up to 30 people comfortably.
Let’s explore Illinois’ most rewarding kayak and canoe adventures.
Key Points
- Starved Rock State Park offers a highly-rated 2-hour guided kayaking tour through scenic waterways, suitable for participants aged 12 and above.
- The single guided kayaking tour near Chicago departs from Ottawa, Illinois, accommodates up to 20 travelers, and is accessible for wheelchair users, strollers, and infants.
- Tandem guided kayak tours near Chicago, at the Starved Rock Campground, cater to families and groups, with an additional fee for children or dogs.
- The guided kayaking experiences in Illinois consistently receive 5-star ratings, promising an enjoyable and memorable outdoor adventure.
- Pricing for the kayaking tours in Illinois ranges from $65 to $88 per person, with all necessary equipment provided.
Single Guided Kayaking Tour Near Chicago
A single guided kayaking tour near Chicago offers an opportunity to explore the waterways of Illinois with an experienced guide. Priced from $88 per person, this tour accommodates up to 20 travelers and provides all necessary equipment, including a single kayak, personal flotation device, and paddle.
The tour departs from a meeting point in Ottawa, Illinois, where participants check in at a picnic table with a designated sign.
During the tour, the guide leads participants on a journey through the scenic surroundings, sharing their knowledge and enhancing the experience.
The tour is accessible to a wide range of travelers, including those in wheelchairs and with strollers, and infants can join on laps.
Based on consistent 5-star reviews, this guided kayaking tour near Chicago promises an enjoyable and informative encounter with the natural beauty of Illinois.
Read our full review: Single Guided Kayaking Tour Near Chicago Review
Book now: Check availability
Starved Rock State Park: Guided Kayaking Tour
Starved Rock State Park offers a guided kayaking tour that allows visitors to explore the park’s scenic waterways up close.
Located just 90 minutes southwest of Chicago, Starved Rock is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The guided kayaking tour takes guests through the park’s canyons, past towering sandstone bluffs, and along the Illinois River.
Rated 4.8 (233 reviews) on GetYourGuide, the 2-hour tour provides a unique perspective of the park’s natural beauty. Priced at $65 per person, the tour includes all necessary equipment and expert guides who share insights about the area’s history and wildlife.
Participants must be at least 12 years old and able to navigate a kayak. With limited availability, it’s recommended to book the tour in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a first-time kayaker, the Starved Rock guided kayaking tour offers an unforgettable way to experience this stunning Illinois state park.
Read our full review: Starved Rock State Park: Guided Kayaking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Tandem Guided Kayak Tour Near Chicago
This tandem guided kayak tour near Chicago provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the scenic waterways of Starved Rock Campground.
Located just over an hour from the city, this tour allows up to 30 travelers to paddle through the tranquil waters in a tandem kayak. The tour includes all necessary equipment, including PFDs and paddles, and is accessible for wheelchair users, strollers, and service animals. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.
The tour meets at a designated picnic area and ends back at the same location.
With an impressive overall rating of 4.3/5 from 6 reviews, travelers have praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides, Rich and Dave, as well as the beautiful surroundings and family-friendly atmosphere.
Families and groups looking for an enjoyable outdoor activity will find this tandem kayak tour a great option. The additional fee of $15 per child or dog allows for a customized experience.
Read our full review: Tandem Guided Kayak Tour Near Chicago Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Illinois offers an array of exceptional canoe and kayak experiences. From guided tours near Chicago to the serene waters of Starved Rock State Park, there’s something for every paddler. Whether you’re looking for a solo adventure or a tandem outing, these excursions provide the perfect way to explore the state’s diverse waterways and connect with nature. With expert guides and stunning scenery, these canoe and kayak experiences are sure to leave a lasting impression.