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Price: $20 per person; $15 for tubes. All American 14 Mile Route: All aboard our bus as we drive you 14 miles up the Illinois River for a LONG float trip.

It's not free, but it's cheap. Floaters must first visit the Grand River Dam Scenic River Office, 2-1/2 miles north on State Highway 10, between the turnoffs for Sparrow Hawk Camp and Elephant Rock Nature Park, on the left side of the road. There they will pay $1 a day per floater, or $10 for the entire season.May 25, 2021

Many of the Illinois River outfitters along SH-10 are open all year, but with advance notice, can accommodate guests even during the winter months so you can float the river in peaceful solitude.

Children 10 & Under Not Float at All

Though the Illinois River is a Class II River, and good for leisurely floating, it is a water sport and must be treated with caution.

Pets are allowed as long as their nails are clipped. Valuables such as billfolds, watches, rings, cameras, etc. should not be taken on canoe. Car keys may be checked in at the office before leaving on float.

It will usually take 2-3 hours to complete but you can make it last longer by pulling over and hanging out on the banks. Kids 10 and under are 1/2 off. This trip will usually take 3-5 hours so plan on making a day out of your float trip.

Glass. Styrofoam containers. Ice chests or coolers over 50 quarts. Alcohol is prohibited in a few public accesses, but 6% is permitted on the Illinois River.May 24, 2019

How many hours does it take to paddle the day trip? With average river conditions, you can generally factor a speed of about 2 mph, which equals around 4 to 6 hours of paddling time for the typical 8- to 10-mile float trip.

After grabbing your permit (and gas if needed – although the gas price is quite steep at the store), head north on OK-10 for 11 miles until you reach the Round Hollow Public Access Area where you can launch your canoes, kayaks, and rafts from for free.