#1 Kayaking Near Chicago since 2010

Kayaking Near Chicago

Beginner Dog Friendly Flatwater Kayaking & Riverside Camping

Book online now for the 2024 season at 2023 pricing

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Our Waterway never gets too shallow to run

Beginner Friendly Kayaking No Current No Shuttle No Worries

SAME DAY ONLINE BOOKING

for Kayak Rentals, Guided Kayak Tours & Waterfront Camping!

Coming Soon GLamping Yurts!

We Also Rent Tents

Kayaking near CHICAGO since 2010

Offering High Quality

Kayaking Rentals | Guided Kayak Tours | Waterfront Camping

kayaking chicago

“Starved Rock is an amazing area with so many cool places to explore”

-Stan F.

Starved Rock in Illinois is a spectacular gem. Boasting 18 canyons carved into 100 foot towering Sandstone bluffs there are endless opportunities for discovery. If you haven’t yet checked this place out go soon you won’t be disappointed!

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Our Guides will make you smile

Come see why people & pups love our
guided kayak tours

Kayak Starved Rock Campground

Reconnect with Family & Friends

Full Strength Prescription Nature is the perfect remedy to melt away daily stress. Come Reunite with friends and family and let a wave of calm reveal a better you.

  • Single & Tandem Kayaks

  • Dog Friendly Kayaking & Camping

  • Waterfront Camping

    right across from Starved Rock

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100%

Fun

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Stress Relief

Guided Kayak Tours

Kayak Rentals

Riverside Camping

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Fun

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Stress Relief

Exploring Kayaking and Camping Adventures near Chicago

Discover Premier Kayaking Experiences

Embark on an unforgettable kayaking adventure near Chicago with our high-quality single Perception Carolina 12ft & 14ft touring kayaks or our Perception cove 145T tandem Chicago kayak tour 

Guided Kayak Tours for Enhanced Exploration

Enhance your kayaking Illinois experience with our guided kayak tours from Kayak rentals near Chicago, available every Saturday, Sunday, and holidays. These tours offer comprehensive instruction and safety lessons before setting out on the water. Our knowledgeable guides from Kayaking in Illinois rentals Chicago, IL lead small groups to explore the scenic beauty of Chicagoland’s sandy shores, ensuring a memorable adventure for all participants.

Flexible Kayak Rentals

For those seeking independent exploration, kayak rentals are available seven days a week from May 1st to Labor Day. Weekends April, Sept and Oct. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, our fleet of kayaks caters to all skill levels, providing the perfect opportunity to discover the wonders of Chicago from a unique perspective.

Immerse Yourself in Nature with Camping

Unwind and recharge after your kayaking adventures with our waterfront camping options along the Illinois River, directly across from Starved Rock State Park. Our Kayak Rentals Near Chicago offers tent camping, pop-up camping, or tear-drop camping at our Starved Rock location, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding natural landscape.

Seamless Integration of Kayaking and Camping

Experience the perfect blend of outdoor activities by bringing your own kayak from kayak rentals near Chicago for use on the river. Our kayak-friendly campground ensures that campers can seamlessly transition from exploring the waterways to relaxing under the stars. Please note that all individuals launching from our locations must wear a PFD (life jacket).

Accessible Day Trips for Non-Campers

For those interested in a day of kayaking without camping or renting equipment, our location offers convenient access with a $10 launch fee. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to kayaking, our facilities at Kayak Rentals Near Chicago provide everything you need for a memorable outdoor adventure near Chicago. Come visit us on the Illinois river a great Chicago river. Canoeing Kayaking right across the river a short 10 minute drive from Starved Rock Lodge and Starved Rock Visitors Center. Camping near matthiessen state park kayaking. If you’re seeking adventure on the waters near Chicago, look no further than the vibrant options for kayak and canoe rentals in the area. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a novice eager to explore, there’s something for everyone. From serene paddles along the tranquil shores near Lake Michigan to guided tours showcasing the iconic Starved Rock, kayak tour Chicago has experiences to suit your preferences. Embark on a leisurely kayak tour of starved rock’s natural wonders or venture further afield to discover the hidden gems of this Illinois waterway. With convenient locations for kayak and canoe rentals, Illinois kayaking canoeing near Chicago, enthusiasts can easily access the excitement of paddling amidst these beautiful landscapes or serene natural settings. So, grab a paddle and immerse yourself in the beauty of kayak tours Chicago kayaking the waters with unforgettable kayak and canoeing experiences.

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A Unique Way to Experience Starved Rock

Guests Love Our Guided Kayak Tours!

starv rock

Super fun tour ran by Rich and Bailey! The scenery was gorgeous and the water was beautiful. Rich’s jokes were the best part of the trip tho! LOL Thank you for a great experience!! We’ll be back!

Laurie B.

starved rock

This was the GREATEST FUN!!! Our guide “Turtle Rick” made this tandem kayak tour so memorable!! We want to come again next weekend!!! Turtle Rick showed us so much wildlife & quizzed us on all this IL History — an absolute BLAST!!! Thank you, Turtle Rick!

Mayda C.

starved rock

My family of 5 did a guided tandem kayak tour and we all loved it (kids ages 12,10 and 8) – all left knowing more about Illinois, the local wildlife and gained some great kayaking know-how. Thank you to our awesome guides (Turtle Rick and Steve) who were friendly and supportive!

Nora B.

starved rock camping

My friend and I booked the rentals for a half day. You go down by the sand rocks, with lots of beautiful views and wildlife. I would suggest a half day so that you half enough time to weave in and out of the islands to see all the wildlife and views. This also makes for a leisure trip instead of a race. Staff was knowledgeable, friendly, and light hearted. Would 100% rent for them again.

Sammy H.

kayak illinois

We had the best time kayaking today with Rich and Dave! It was our first time kayaking and I was incredibly nervous. Rich provided excellent instructions and both made me feel super comfortable and encouraged me that I could do it. I did tip out if the kayak twice, but the upside is that both instructors were able to help me get back in and finish out the kayak trip. Dave was really kind and helped me get over the embarrassment I felt after flipping. He stayed with me until I was comfortable enough to catch up with the group. I can’t begin to thank him enough for his kindness. I can’t wait to get back on the water and I HIGHLY recommend you request Rich and Dave. You won’t be disappointed! Thank you both so much 

Emily B.

kayaking in chicago

We were part of Rich and Dave’s Sunday 11 A.M. kayaking group. It was our very first time kayaking so we were a bit scared & reluctant to go but Rich immediately explained details to us, got us going early so we’d feel comfortable sitting in the kayak and brought humor to the experience. He kept everyone engaged along the tour and made us laugh, even Connor (inside joke). Thanks so much to both of these guys for keeping us safe and showing us a good time!

Jordan B.