Sangamon River in Illinois

by  guest-paddler

A self-supported trip created by guest-paddler

Trip Overview

Did a half day run in Mid-May on the Sangamon in Piatt County. This was in between the flooding stages which occurred in April and now again in Mid-June.

Put in at Lodge Park and took out on the far side of Allerton Park. River was in its banks and running smoothly; however, this river is not maintained for navigation, so there were 7 different spots where I had to dry (read: mud) portage, and a couple of other close calls where a canoe would have had to get out. Also, managed to fall in twice. Cold that time of year. Ambient air temp was mid-60's.

Leaves were just beginning to come out and there was minimal traffic, just two guys in bass boats and 4-5 fisherman on the banks. Loads of wildlife: dear, fox, birds of all description. Highlight: After having seen several gray heron flying along the water, I passed a spot where I counted 30-odd nests high in the trees, each with a heron on it. Normally, you never see more than two together around here. It was like discovering the elephant graveyard, in reverse. Made the effort worthwhile.

Since I am a beginner, this was my first time on any river. I plan to fully explore it this summer and recommend it to any interested.

Accommodations:

Lodge has camping sites with water and toilets. No other facilities, but you are only two miles from Monticello.

Fees:

No

Directions:

Lodge Park is north off I-72 at exit 66.

Trip Details

  • Skill Level: Intermediate
  • Water Type: River/Creek (Up to Class II)

Trip Location