:quality(70)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/shawmedia/JRGKM7GSM6UWMQ5D3NTCTFVR7Q.jpg)
Whether it’s the sheer beauty of its rolling waters, the pristine greenery along its shores, or the local fun and attractions that exist just steps from the water’s edge, when you live in Kane County, it doesn’t take long to recognize how much impact the Fox River has on the region.
If you are looking for a family activity, a personal escape, or maybe just a little exercise, you don’t have to limit yourself to the local entry points to the Fox River. The adjacent counties offer a wide variety of watercraft, soothing and challenging waters, and exceptional culinary opportunities at every exit point.
The following list is a precise guide to what’s available in and around the Fox River as it meanders through Kane County and points beyond. The Fox River is an extraordinary luxury for residents, don’t miss the chance to take advantage of it!
KANE COUNTY
Mill Race Cyclery
Take a canoe, kayak or paddle board ride along the Fox Fiver and escape the bustling bike trails and busy roads to find some respite along the slow, meandering waters. One of the hidden gems of the region is Mill Race Cyclery. If you think Mill Race Cyclery is just for those who ride on two, maybe three wheels, then you are literally – missing the boat, kayak and canoe. The cycle shop offers an array of water sport rentals including a single- or two-person canoe, stand-up paddle board and kayaks. Rentals are available for hourly, daily or weekly and the shop offers shuttle services if you happen to get stuck downstream. Visit the website for details and to book a rental.
Mill Race Cyclery
11 E. State St., Geneva
630-232-2833
[ www.millrace.com ]
Kayak Myak Rentals
No need for hauling your own equipment with Kayak Myak Rentals. After booking the trip through the website or phone, staff from Kayak Myak Rentals of Elgin will meet you and your party at your launch site with everything you need including life jackets. There are different trips of varying times and distances. Staff then will meet up with you and shuttle you back to your starting point. Check out the website for details and recommendations.
847-204-1724
[ www.kayakmyakrentalsllc.com ]
River View Miniature Golf Course
Find more than a rousing game of putt-putt with boating rentals available at the park district location through mid-August. Rent a kayak for the hour; and each rental includes a life jacket and paddles. Kayaks launch from the dock in Pottawatomie Park. Rentals must be made in person, but be sure to check the website for details.
8 North Ave., St. Charles
630-584-1028
South Elgin Canoe
Whether you need a one-person canoe or to reserve canoes and kayaks for taking the whole family out, try this 6.5-mile trip on the Fox River with South Elgin Canoe. Trips begin below the dam in South Elgin and end at Ferson Creek Park in St. Charles. South Elgin Canoe can provide rentals for daily and weekend use, and prices include shuttle services and life jackets. Cash and check only for rentals. Visit the website or call to book an adventure.
224-227-8364
KENDALL COUNTY
Naperville Kayak
The local business offers Fox River trips in Oswego and Plainfield as well as Naperville. Check the website for trips and locations and to reserve equipment. Offering kayak and paddle boat rentals and support trips along the DuPage River and in Whalon Lake as well.
630-300-4257
Yak Shack
In addition to rentals and trips, Yak Shack offers classes and an online retail store with dry-tops and splash jackets, as well as accessories. No longer using a retail location, staff from Yak Shack will meet you and your party with your rental equipment at the site of your launch. Rent canoes, kayaks, tube trackers and more. Advance reservations recommended.
630-479-8074
MCHENRY COUNTY
Flatwater Canoe & Kayak Rentals
Visit in person for canoe and kayak rentals at this location. Rentals are daily and include shuttle services. Operating for more than 10 years, the staff at Flatwater Canoe & Kayak Rentals can help provide for a great day trip on the water.
815-353-7333
8621 Route 12, Richmond
Gills
Find Gills located inside Chain O’Lakes State Park. In addition to canoes and kayaks, find rowboats and motorboats at Gills. Rentals available for hourly and daily use. Staff also will lead shuttled kayak tours along the northern branch of the Fox River. Visit the website for times and details.
847-587-7165
8916 N. Wilmot Road, Spring Grove
Jet Funn Rentals
For those who want a little more speed in their water adventures, Jet Funn Rentals is worth a visit to find pontoon boats, deck boats, wave runners and, yes, kayaks. Check out the website for prices and more.
847-587-4386
109 Nippersink, Fox Lake
Scull and Oars
The business was started by two brothers who needed a summer job, and has grown considerably to offer water sports enthusiasts kayak and canoe rentals for trips along the Nippersink Canoe Trail. Advance rentals are required and shuttle service is at an additional cost. Visit the website for rates and details.
815-790-4249
6014 N. Mill Drive, Wonder Lake
Three Oaks Recreation
This favorite outdoor recreation spot offers rentals for rowboats, kayaks, sailboats, paddle boats and canoes. Enjoy boating activities as well as fishing and great picnic areas. Rental reservations recommended during the busy summer weekends. Parking fee for non-Crystal Lake residents.
815-459-2020
5517 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake
http://www.crystallake.org/three-oaks-recreationwww.crystallake.org/three-oaks-recreation