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Canoeing in Illinois

Canoeing Trips in Illinois

With so many interconnected rivers, lakes, and waterways, there are numerous possibilities for a day out on the water in Illinois. Chain o' Lakes State Park is a great example of the paddling to be found here. Find canoeing trips in Illinois for every level of canoeist. Whether you're looking for a guided trip, canoe rentals, self-guided, day trip, multi-day trip, or anything in between, there's a canoe trip in Illinois for you. If you've paddled here before, be sure to share your trip with the rest of us!

Planning the trip of a lifetime? Check out these safe paddling tips and always wear your life jacket


- Brought to you by the Water Sports Foundation and the SFRBTF administered by the U.S. Coast Guard -

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Guide to Canoeing in Illinois

Read on for guides to planning your own canoeing trip to Illinois, seeking out an outfitted trip, connecting with other Illinois paddlers, and many other resources! Paddle right through the city on the Chicago River or check out other paddling highlights on:

  • Lake Michigan
  • Chain o' Lakes State Park
  • Wabash River
  • The Mississippi River

Canoeing Locations in Illinois

If you want to plot your own route, check out all paddling locations in Illinois! Search thousands of put-in and take-out locations on our Paddling Locations Map and be sure to download the Go Paddling app where you can save favorites or create and share a float plan!

Plan a Canoeing Trip to Illinois

Over the years, many of our paddlers have paddled throughout Illinois and were so generous to share their paddling experiences with us in a community trip report. Read a few examples of Illinois community trip reports below:

Have you paddled in Illinois? Post Your Trip and share with the community!

Articles about Illinois Paddling

The Great Lakes: A Little Slice of the Sea

Deep in the heart of North America, surrounded by forest and field, there is an ocean. A vast inland sea containing nearly a quarter of the world's fresh water — enough to flood the lower 48 states to a depth of almost ten feet — the Great Lakes contain upwards of 35,000 islands, and their 10,000 miles of shore rival that of the US ocean coastlines.

Connect with Paddlers in Illinois

Looking to connect with other paddlers in Illinois? Below are a number of resources to help get you started:

Canoeing in Illinois