Kayaking at Starved Rock State Park near Chicago

Paddle at your own speed through sandstone bluffs and quiet creeks

Kayak rentals at Starved Rock State Park near Chicago let you paddle single or tandem kayaks (12 or 14 feet) through scenic waterways lined with towering bluffs. Every rental includes a paddle, life jacket and land-based safety instruction. Rentals run 2, 4 or 8 hours, seven days a week from April through late October. Tandem kayaks hold up to 550 pounds total and accommodate children, dogs under 40 pounds (with provided life jackets), or solo paddlers over 225 pounds seeking added stability.

The experience

You arrive at the Starved Rock Campground rental location and choose between single kayaks (Perception Carolina models in 12 or 14-foot lengths, holding up to 275 pounds including gear) or tandem kayaks (holding up to 550 pounds, with adjustable seats and a center seat option for solo paddling). Before you push off, the staff runs through safety basics and paddling technique on land, so you know what to expect on the water. A paddle and life jacket come with every rental, and if you're bringing a dog under 40 pounds, they provide a life jacket for your paddling partner too.

The rental periods (2, 4 or 8 hours) give you room to set your own itinerary. A quick 2-hour window is enough to reach the towering sandstone bluffs and return. The daily rental opens up the creeks for bird-watching, fishing (bring your own pole), or a picnic on the water. You're on your own schedule, not following a guide's route or timing, so you can linger at a bluff, explore a side creek or head back early if the afternoon shifts.

The park is open seven days a week throughout the summer, with rentals available April through late October depending on weather. Tandem kayaks work well for couples, families with children, or anyone paddling with a dog. The shared boat means one booking covers multiple people. If you weigh around 225 pounds or more, a tandem kayak paddled solo gives you the stability and weight capacity that a single might not.

What’s included

• Paddle and personal flotation device (life jacket) for every paddler.
• land-based safety and instructional lesson before launch.
• life jacket for dogs under 40 pounds.
• flexible rental periods of 2, 4 or 8 hours.
• open seven days a week April through late October.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 25 Apr 2027

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Under 12: can't be booked

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 10 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller-friendlyPets welcome

Operated by KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND

Is this one for you?Solo paddlers and couples can choose single kayaks for independence, while families with children or anyone paddling with a dog benefit from tandem kayaks' extra capacity and stability. If you weigh 225 pounds or more, a tandem kayak paddled solo gives you the comfort and weight allowance a single cannot.

Top questions

Can I bring my dog kayaking at Starved Rock?

Yes, tandem kayaks accommodate dogs under 40 pounds, who sit on a pad between the two paddlers. Dogs larger than 40 pounds can ride as the second passenger. The rental includes a life jacket for your dog, which is required.

What's the difference between the single and tandem kayaks?

Single kayaks are Perception Carolina models (12 or 14 feet) holding up to 275 pounds total. Tandem kayaks hold up to 550 pounds and have two adjustable seats. One seat can move to the center so you can paddle solo if you prefer, or bring a child or dog. Tandem kayaks are recommended for paddlers weighing 225 pounds or more.

How long do I have to paddle, and when are rentals available?

You choose 2, 4 or 8 hours. Rentals are available seven days a week from April through late October. A 2-hour rental gets you to the bluffs and back. The 4 and 8-hour options let you explore creeks, fish or picnic on the water.

What's included in the rental?

Every rental includes the kayak, paddle, personal flotation device (life jacket), and a land-based safety and instructional lesson before you launch. If you're bringing a dog, a life jacket for your dog is also provided.

Is there a minimum age to rent a kayak?

Yes, the minimum age is 12 years old. Children can paddle in a tandem kayak with an adult.

What if I'm heavier or less experienced? Can I still rent?

Kayak rentals suit all fitness levels. If you weigh around 225 pounds or more, a tandem kayak paddled solo offers better stability and weight capacity than a single. The safety lesson before you launch covers everything you need to know to paddle safely.