If you’ve ever wanted to see a side of Illinois that’s both peaceful and awe-inspiring, a tandem guided kayak tour at Starved Rock State Park might be just what you need. While we haven’t had the pleasure ourselves, this tour has been catching attention for its beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and unique experience of paddling through towering sandstone bluffs. It’s an accessible way to connect with nature and enjoy some active leisure—without needing prior kayaking experience.
What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines education with fun. The guides seem genuinely passionate about sharing their knowledge of the area’s wildlife and geology, and they keep things entertaining. Plus, the fact that dogs are now welcome on the water adds a charming twist for pet owners. The only thing to consider? The 2-hour duration means it’s a quick escape rather than an all-day adventure, so if you’re craving more time on the water or in nature, you’ll want to plan accordingly.
This tour is perfect for those who enjoy gentle outdoor activities, family groups with older kids, or anyone looking to experience Illinois’ scenic waterways without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. If you’re seeking a relaxing yet engaging outing that offers plenty of chances to spot eagles and pelicans, this trip could be just right.
Key Points
- Stunning scenery: Towering sandstone bluffs and diverse wildlife make this a visual treat.
- Educational guides: Guides are knowledgeable and keep the tour lively.
- Family and pet-friendly: Dogs up to 40 lbs can join, and children 12 or under may ride as a second passenger.
- All-inclusive: Kayaks, paddles, and life jackets are provided.
- Value for the price: At $59 per person, the experience offers a lot of natural beauty and fun for a reasonable cost.
- Nice for small groups: With a max of 30 travelers, the atmosphere stays friendly and manageable.
What to Expect from the Tour
The adventure kicks off at the Starved Rock Campground, where you’ll meet your guides for a quick land-based lesson. This safety briefing and paddle instruction are straightforward, making it accessible even if you’ve never kayaked before. The guides are praised for their ability to educate while keeping the mood light, which means you’ll quickly feel comfortable on the water.
Once equipped, you’ll hop into tandem kayaks that hold up to three people—if the third passenger is a child under 70 lbs or a dog under 40 lbs. The flexibility to bring your furry friend along is a big plus for pet owners wanting to share the experience. For a small additional fee, children and smaller dogs can join, making this a flexible family outing.
The water route takes you past the majestic St. Peters sandstone bluffs, giving you a chance to see the area’s iconic geological features up close. As you paddle along, you’ll have opportunities to spot Bald Eagles soaring overhead, along with pelicans, blue herons, turtles, and maybe even a few lotus flowers in bloom.
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The Highlights of the Itinerary
Starting Point: KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND
The meeting location is accessible from Ottawa, Illinois, and makes for a convenient starting point for exploring the park. The tour duration is approximately 2 hours, which strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy the scenery, but not so long that it becomes tiring.
The Waterway and Scenic Views
Expect to paddle through calm waters, surrounded by towering sandstone formations. The guide’s commentary adds context to what you’re seeing—whether it’s the geology, local bird species, or interesting facts about the park. It’s a chance to see a part of Illinois that many visitors overlook when they just do hikes.
Wildlife Watching and Nature
Many reviewers mention how remarkable it is to see Bald Eagles and pelicans in their natural habitat. The guides apparently make a point to educate participants about the area’s natural features, which enhances the experience. Turtles, herons, and lotus flowers are also part of the scene, depending on the season.
Real User Feedback
Based on reviews, the guides are a major highlight. Mary_U raved about Rich and his partner, calling them “the best tour guides” and mentioning how much fun they had seeing many great things. Christina_C appreciated the guides’ mix of humor and safety, noting that Rich led them to beautiful spots and Dave helped with photos, making it especially suitable for families.
Some reviewers pointed out that the tour is well-paced and informative, with a good mix of scenery and wildlife spotting. The small group size and attentive guides seem to create a friendly, personalized atmosphere.
Pricing and Value
At $59 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. It includes tandem kayaks, life jackets, and paddles, which means you’re not shelling out extra for gear. The small additional fee for a child or dog riding as a second passenger is reasonable, especially considering how much fun it can be to share the water with a furry friend or family member.
While the tour is not a full-day excursion, it provides a relaxing two-hour window to enjoy some of Illinois’ most scenic waterways. For those short on time but craving a nature escape, this is a solid choice.
Suitability and Considerations
This experience is great for those who are comfortable on the water or willing to follow basic safety instructions. It’s suitable for families with children 12 and under, especially if they’re used to paddling or are OK with a gentle outing. Pet owners will appreciate that dogs up to 40 lbs can join in the fun.
Keep in mind, since the tour is only two hours, it’s best for travelers looking for a manageable outing rather than a full-day adventure. Also, since the tour starts at the campground, it’s a quick trip from Chicago or Ottawa, making it doable as a day trip or an outdoor break during a longer visit.
Final Thoughts
This guided kayak tour near Chicago offers a wonderful way to enjoy Illinois’ natural beauty with knowledgeable guides and the chance to see wildlife up close. It’s an ideal option for those interested in a relaxing, scenic paddle that’s accessible and family-friendly. The ability to bring your dog along makes it even more appealing for pet owners wanting to share a special outdoor experience.
While the two-hour timeframe may seem short for some, the combination of stunning scenery, wildlife sightings, and expert guidance makes it more than worthwhile. The small group size ensures a friendly environment, and the overall value makes this a smart pick for nature lovers and casual paddlers alike.
If you’re seeking a memorable outdoor activity that introduces you to the Illinois River’s charm without a steep learning curve or heavy commitment, this tour could be just the ticket.
Tandem Guided Kayak Tour Near Chicago
“Rich and his partner were the best tour guides! We had so much fun and saw so many great things! We would totally recommend this trip!”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour starts with a land-based lesson and safety briefing, so even beginners can feel comfortable paddling after a brief introduction.
Can I bring my dog?
Absolutely. Dogs up to 40 lbs can ride as a second passenger for a fee, and larger dogs (up to 70 lbs) can ride as a third passenger if they’re in the kayak with a child.
What’s included in the price?
The fee covers tandem kayak, paddles, and life jackets. No extra costs for gear.
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, including the safety briefing and paddling time.
Where does the tour start?
At KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND, located at 1170 N 27th Rd, Ottawa, IL.
Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, especially for families with children 12 or under who are comfortable on the water or riding as a second passenger.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.
Are the guides knowledgeable?
Based on reviews, guides like Rich and Dave are praised for their informative, friendly approach and ability to make everyone feel safe.
Is the equipment reliable?
Yes, the tour provides well-maintained tandem kayaks, life jackets, and paddles.
What will I see during the tour?
Expect to see towering sandstone bluffs, Bald Eagles, pelicans, blue herons, turtles, and lotus flowers—depending on the season.
If you’re craving a scenic, laid-back adventure that combines wildlife, geology, and friendly guides—all without breaking the bank—this kayak tour near Starved Rock could be just what you’re looking for.
