Pecatonica River in Illinois

Trip Overview

This river trip is about 7 miles long. This is a very quiet, slow river in rural countryside. The river channel is easy to follow. The first and only bridge that you will see is West McConnell Road Bridge. There is a BIG BEND in this river segment. 2.68 miles downstream, the river makes a 1 mile detour in the shape of a human ear.

This is just one of many trips that we made on the 58.21 mile Pecatonica River that runs thru Stephenson County, Illinois.

Accommodations:

Davey's Riverside Inn in Winslow is a good food stop - 815-367-5241
Old Ship Cafe and Bar in McConnell is a good food stop. Closed on Mondays - 815-868-9097

Fees:

None

Directions:

Brewster Landing is located about 5 miles west of Rte 26 on Winslow Road, or 1 1/2 miles east of Winslow on Winslow Road. A billboard on Winslow Road marks Brewster Landing. Brewster Landing has a cement boat ramp and off-road parking lot.

West McConnell Road Bridge is 1/4 mile west of McConnell on West McConnell Road. The best launch/take-out site is near the east bridge support (river left) on the south side of the bridge. There is ample off-road parking east and south of the bridge. This grassy area is owned by our county.

Car Shuttle Directions
Brewster Landing to West McConnell Road Bridge - From Brewster Landing, go west to Winslow. Turn left on Rte 73, go about 5 miles south and turn left on West McConnell Road. Go about 3 miles to the Pecatonica River Bridge.

Resources:

http://www.freewebs.com/paddlethepec/