The purpose of these pages is to provide information not only on the big pond and our namesake river, but also on the smaller, forgotten ponds, lakes, rivers, canals and creeks that can be used for recreation. Most of the lakes covered on these pages don't allow power boats, some of the lakes are for fishing or relaxing only.

Canoe & Kayak Rental. Make your own trip for a quick hour's getaway or an afternoon. We'll provide everything you need, including enough paddling instruction to get you going if you're a beginner. Come out and explore a natural stretch of the Chicago River, a winding stream where herons stalk the shallows for fish and turtles bask on logs, right on the city's north side. We offer guided trips for all interests and abilities, including weekly Skyscraper Canyon trips through downtown, Sunset Dinner trips at the Lagoons, and River Rambles on quieter nearby streams. Chicago, Illinois

ChicagoSUP is Chicago's original SUP outfitter! We have 4 great locations along with the knowledge, experience and top of the line equipment to show you and your group a great time on the water! Our rentals include everything you need for a hassle-free paddle in one of the most unique locations in the world! Ideal for those looking to enjoy Chicago’s Skyline and lakefront, without the need to transport a board. Perfect for seasoned paddlers visiting Chicago, or just about anyone looking to do something different. Bike, walk, run, swim, however you get here, we’ll take care of the rest! If you think you might need some help getting started, no worries. Check out our SUP Lessons section, one of our experienced instructors will have you up and cruising in no time! Chicago, Illinois

Geneva Kayak Center is Illinois' paddlesport specialist. We proudly serve the entire Chicago area with the finest in boats and accessories, local kayak tours and instruction. We are the premiere center for kayak instruction in the Midwest and are the only BCU Endorsed Coaching Center between the coasts. Our goal is to promote the sport of kayaking to the greater Chicago area and the Midwest through safety and education. In addition to our local offerings, we offer spectacular Adventure Paddling Trips for beginner to advanced paddlers, to amazing locations in the Midwest, Alaska, Greece, Mexico and the UK. Yorkville, Illinois

Dedicated to promoting the safe enjoyment of all phases of canoeing and kayaking in Illinois, to assure access to the state's waters and to protect and preserve the natural resources within the state.

Kayak Chicago offers fun and exciting kayaking tours. A great and exciting way to explore Chicago's water front. Kayak Chicago's lessons are full of fun! Perfect for groups and Individuals. Kayak Chicago offers the largest kayak rental fleet in town! We have over 200 kayaks at our disposal. Kayak Chicago is Chicago's 1st and only paddle board outfitter, offering lessons, tours and paddle board rentals. Kayak Chicago is Chicago's premier full service outfitter, offering the highest quality instruction and trips, with our fully certified instuctors and guides. Chicago, Illinois

Guided Kayak Tours & Kayaking Rentals near Chicago. Our high quality single kayaks are Perception Carolina 12ft & 14ft touring kayaks. Our guided kayak tours begin with a land based kayak instruction and safety kayak lesson and then you head out on the water with our guides in a small kayaking group to visit the beautiful sites along our sandy shores. Our motto is to explore all the possibilities of Kayaking Chicago. Ottawa, Illinois

A dedicated paddlesports and inflatable boat specialty shop. Chicago area's most complete retailer for canoes, kayaks, stand up paddleboards, and inflatable boats. We also offer kayaking lessons. Lake Bluff, Illinois

Paddle Northeastern Illinois. An interactive guide to the Northeastern Illinois water trails system, which encompasses 10 waterways, ranging from creeks that flow through densely wooded forest preserves to the skyscrapers of downtown Chicago as seen from Lake Michigan and the Chicago River.

Rocktown Adventures is a specialty outdoor retailer and outfitter. We kayak. We canoe. We stand-up paddleboard. We hike. We backpack. We ski. We snowshoe. We camp. We embrace an active outdoor lifestyle and want to take our passion for outdoor recreation and use it to help you find yours. We carry top of the line equipment from name brands that excite your outdoor passions and have experienced staff that love to share their enthusiasm for the outdoors. There is an abundance of recreational assets waiting to be discovered by YOU! Rocktown Adventures offers on-site and off-site paddlesports rentals which allow you to take advantage of the abundance of scenic creeks, rivers and lakes in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. Choose from a variety of Kayaks, Canoes, Stand-up Paddleboards, Paddles and PFD’s (life jackets). Are you brand new to paddlesports and want to get the basics of paddling down before you head out on your own? Do you just want to enhance your kayaking skills? We offer paddlesports lessons! Rockford, Illinois

Kayak on the Chicago River and Lakefront. Urban Kayaks offers a kayaking experience that showcases Chicago in an amazing and unique way. Located on the Chicago Riverwalk, offering Kayak Tours, Rentals, Lessons, and Fireworks Paddles, our helpful staff will make sure you have a wonderful experience. Urban Kayaks has a wide range of paddling options at our two Chicago locations: the Chicago Riverwalk and the Lakefront at Monroe Harbor. No matter your experience, age or fitness level, we have the Urban Kayaking experience that is right for you. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago River Kayak Tours and Rentals. You will not get a more affordable kayak trip at such a prime location on the river. Maximize your time on the water time by launching with us in the downtown area with our central location near the Loop, River North, West Loop, and River West. For over twenty-two years, we have taken pride in our tours. Our personable and experienced guides have the knowledge and dedication to ensure you have a memorable, safe, and entertaining journey with us. Looking to create your own adventure on the Chicago River? Rent our kayaks by the hour and explore the downtown area! Chicago, Illinois