--- title: "Starved Rock Kayak Tours, Kayak Rentals Camping Chicago" url: https://kayakstarvedrock.com/ date: 2014-12-09 modified: 2026-10-29 lang: en author: "Ja Ma" description: "" image: https://kayakstarvedrock.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/starvedrock1345originalwebp.webp word_count: 5299 --- # Starved Rock Kayak Tours, Kayak Rentals Camping Chicago ### #1 Starved Rock Kayaking Near Chicago since 2010 ### Starved Rock Kayaking Near Chicago, IL ** Closed for the season now accepting bookings for 2027** **Rarely too low or too high to run ** **Dam controlled** **Our Waterway never gets too shallow to run** **Currently running Normal schedule Rentals & Tours** **Beginner & Dog & Family Friendly Kayak** ** No Current No Shuttle No worries 2-4 ft water depth** **Flatwater Kayaking & ****Riverside Camping** **[Book online Now](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/online-booking/)** ** Closed for the season now accepting bookings for 2027** **Kayak Rental Hours** ** Friday  Last Kayaks out at ** **SAT/SUN  Last kayaks out at ** **Beginner Kayak Rentals** **Kayaks have maps and the attendant directs you** **2 hour GUIDED KAYAK TOURS Saturday/Sunday** ** ** **[SAME DAY ONLINE BOOKING](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/online-booking/)** **for Kayak Rentals, Guided Ka** [![Scenic view of Starved Rock Campground with lush greenery and spacious camping spots](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=300,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Starved-Rock-Campground-300x157.jpg)](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/starved-rock-fire-glampout/) **[Kayaking near CHICAGO since 2010](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/directions/)** **Offering ****High Quality** #### Kayaking Rentals | Starved Rock Guided Kayak Tours | Waterfront Camping [Book Online Now ](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/online-booking/)![kayaking chicago](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=500,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/20230909_142148-scaled-2.jpg) ## “Starved Rock is an amazing area with so many cool places to explore” -Stan F. Starved Rock in Illinois is a spectacular gem. Boasting 18 canyons carved into 100 foot towering Sandstone bluffs there are endless opportunities for discovery. If you haven’t yet checked this place out go soon you won’t be disappointed! ![kayaking chicago](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=230,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/signature-3.jpg)Our Guides will make you smile ## Come see why people & pups love our guided kayak tours [Book Now](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/online-booking/)Kayak Starved Rock Campground ## Reconnect with Family & Friends Full Strength Prescription Nature is the perfect remedy to melt away daily stress. Come Reunite with friends and family and let a wave of calm reveal a better you. - Single & Tandem Kayaks - Dog Friendly Kayaking & Camping - Waterfront Camping right across from Starved Rock![starved rock camping](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=500,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/20230820_141345.jpg)100%Fun 100%Stress Relief #### Guided Kayak Tours #### Kayak Rentals #### Riverside Camping 100%Fun 100%Stress Relief Kayak Rental and tour Service for Camping & Starved Rock Kayaking near Chicago, IL **Kayak Rental Service** Explore unforgettable kayak rental and kayak tour services near Chicago with our premium Starved Rock kayaking experiences. We offer high-quality single Perception Carolina 12ft & 14ft touring kayaks and Perception Cove 145T tandem kayaks, ideal for beginners, families, and experienced paddlers alike. Our location makes us a top choice for kayak rentals in Chicago, IL, and guided kayak tours in Chicago, IL, just minutes from Starved Rock State Park. Guided Kayak Tours at Starved Rock State Park Discover the beauty of kayaking Starved Rock State Park with our professionally guided Starved Rock kayak tours, available every Saturday, Sunday, and on holidays. These guided tours include safety instruction and on-water guidance, allowing you to enjoy kayaking on the Illinois River while exploring scenic sandstone bluffs and hidden waterways. Our knowledgeable guides ensure a relaxed and memorable kayaking Starved Rock experience for all skill levels. Flexible Kayak Rentals Near Chicago For independent paddlers, we provide kayak rentals in Chicago available seven days a week from May through Labor Day, with extended weekend availability in April, September, and October. Whether you’re planning a short paddle or a full day on the water, our kayak rentals Chicago location offers easy access to calm, flatwater paddling along the Illinois River near Starved Rock State Park. Starved Rock Camping & Waterfront Camping, Illinois After a day of Starved Rock kayaking, unwind with Starved Rock camping at our scenic riverside location. We offer waterfront camping in Illinois, including tent camping, pop-up camping, and teardrop camping options. This setup is perfect for kayak camping in Illinois, allowing you to combine paddling and camping in one seamless outdoor adventure. Seamless Kayaking and Camping at Starved Rock Campers are welcome to bring their own kayaks or rent them on-site, making camping at Starved Rock ideal for those looking to enjoy both land and water activities. Our kayak-friendly campground allows easy transitions from paddling on the river to relaxing under the stars. All paddlers are required to wear a PFD (life jacket) for safety. Day Trips & Kayaks for Rent Near Me Not planning to camp? We offer convenient day access for kayaks for rent near me, including canoe and kayak launches with a simple access fee. Located just a short drive from Starved Rock Lodge, Starved Rock Visitors Center, and near Matthiessen State Park, our site is ideal for day trips focused on kayaking the Illinois River and nearby outdoor exploration. Whether you’re looking for camping, kayak rental service, Starved Rock kayak tours, or kayak rentals near Chicago, our Starved Rock kayaking near Chicago location is always ready to welcome you. kayaks for rent near me #### kayaking Chicago FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS **1. Where is Starved Rock kayaking located near Chicago?** Starved Rock kayaking is located on the Illinois River, directly across from Starved Rock State Park and about a 90-minute drive from Chicago, making it ideal for day trips and weekend getaways. 2. Are kayak rentals at Starved Rock beginner and family-friendly? Yes, our canoe and kayak rental service is beginner, family, and dog-friendly. The river is dam-controlled with flatwater conditions, no strong current, and shallow depths ideal for first-time paddlers. 3. Do you offer guided kayak tours at Starved Rock State Park? Yes, we offer guided Starved Rock kayak tours on weekends and holidays. Tours include safety instruction, on-water guidance, and scenic paddling along sandstone bluffs and natural waterways. 4. Can I go kayaking and camping at Starved Rock in the same trip? Absolutely. We offer waterfront camping in Illinois right across from Starved Rock State Park, allowing visitors to combine kayaking, canoeing, and camping at one convenient location. 5. What types of kayaks are available for rent near Chicago? We provide high-quality single and tandem kayaks suitable for adults, families, and paddling with dogs. All kayak rentals include paddles, life jackets, and on-site assistance. A Unique Way to Experience Starved Rock ## Guests Love Our Guided Kayak Tours! ![starv rock](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=75,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/starv_rock.webp)Super fun tour ran by Rich and Bailey! The scenery was gorgeous and the water was beautiful. Rich’s jokes were the best part of the trip tho! LOL Thank you for a great experience at Starved Rock State Park!! We’ll be back! Laurie B. ![starved rock](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=75,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/6-e1704314147825-1.webp)This was the GREATEST FUN!!! Our guide “Turtle Rick” made this tandem kayak tour so memorable!! We want to come again next weekend!!! Turtle Rick showed us so much wildlife & quizzed us on all this IL History — an absolute BLAST!!! Thank you, Turtle Rick! Mayda C. ![starved rock](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=75,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/mayda-e1699906132540.png)My family of 5 did a guided tandem kayak tour and we all loved it (kids ages 12,10 and 8) – all left knowing more about Illinois across starved rock state park, the local wildlife and gained some great kayaking know-how. Thank you to our awesome guides (Turtle Rick and Steve) who were friendly and supportive! Nora B. ![starved rock camping](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=95,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/4.jpg)My friend and I booked the rentals for a half day. You go down by the sand rocks, with lots of beautiful views and wildlife. I would suggest a half day so that you half enough time to weave in and out of the islands to see all the wildlife and views. This also makes for a leisure trip instead of a race. Staff was knowledgeable, friendly, and light hearted. Would 100% rent for them again. Sammy H. ![kayak illinois](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=75,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/5-e1699906536383-1.jpg)We had the best time kayaking today with Rich and Dave from Starved Rock State Park! It was our first time kayaking and I was incredibly nervous. Rich provided excellent instructions and both made me feel super comfortable and encouraged me that I could do it. I did tip out if the kayak twice, but the upside is that both instructors were able to help me get back in and finish out the kayak trip. Dave was really kind and helped me get over the embarrassment I felt after flipping. He stayed with me until I was comfortable enough to catch up with the group. I can’t begin to thank him enough for his kindness. I can’t wait to get back on the water and I HIGHLY recommend you request Rich and Dave. You won’t be disappointed! Thank you both so much  Emily B. ![kayaking in chicago](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=75,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/staff-1@2x-1.jpg)We were part of Rich and Dave’s Sunday 11 A.M. kayaking group. It was our very first time kayaking so we were a bit scared & reluctant to go but Rich immediately explained details to us, got us going early so we’d feel comfortable sitting in the kayak and brought humor to the experience. He kept everyone engaged along the tour and made us laugh, even Connor (inside joke). Thanks so much to both of these guys for keeping us safe and showing us a good time! Jordan B. Top ratedBased on **195 reviews**![Rene H. profile picture](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=50,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/ChIJnTLrAZyZDogRhFR0cInwrL4_5431772b7d20144fa8b33f93658d5fcd.jpg)[Rene H.](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/112481315029785710122/reviews)1 week agoWe had a fantastic time. We had a gorgeous day all around wonderful. We'll definitely be back!!!![Michael M. profile picture](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=50,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/ChIJnTLrAZyZDogRhFR0cInwrL4_c5ef2434d2228ff3ed90889e5ecdf951.jpg)[Michael M.](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/104278135352831812414/reviews)2 weeks agoan awesome experience. Great staff!![Samantha A. profile picture](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=50,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/ChIJnTLrAZyZDogRhFR0cInwrL4_fb8f6b9bf326fd8793af72064b66e48b.jpg)[Samantha A.](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/110820557403288576832/reviews)3 weeks agoGreat time! Loved our guide! He was very knowledgeable of the area and attentive.![Oleg N. profile picture](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=50,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/ChIJnTLrAZyZDogRhFR0cInwrL4_b4bb810594d0f46bdb9108b9b2a2ac63.jpg)[Oleg N.](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/112439102064100797141/reviews)3 weeks ago![Sharon profile picture](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=50,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/ChIJnTLrAZyZDogRhFR0cInwrL4_d4278c2bc7aeba7eefa37e07bc9faffe.jpg)[Sharon](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/114325886592887998249/reviews)3 weeks agoI've lived in Illinois my whole life, and somehow this was my first trip to Starved Rock! Our guide was awesome and shared so much interesting history about the area. We had a great time and will definitely be back!![Andrea M. profile picture](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=50,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/ChIJnTLrAZyZDogRhFR0cInwrL4_89e1ba73f580c5b3fb02d63e27754d62.jpg)[Andrea M.](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/115599213565782397666/reviews)2 months agoAmazing experience! Super informative. We got to see so much wildlife. Our guide was super nice and knowledgeable! Definitely recommend!!![Mary R. profile picture](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=50,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/ChIJnTLrAZyZDogRhFR0cInwrL4_852689422e5749edf9c1d2481ae14759.jpg)[Mary R.](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/118319252356936265510/reviews)3 months agoThis was so much fun. I had never kayaked before but they made the process so easy to learn. Our guide, Turtle Rick, was fun and knowledgeable. We saw turtles, a snake and an eagle as well as beautiful scenery. We would definitely do it again.![Monica S. profile picture](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=50,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/ChIJnTLrAZyZDogRhFR0cInwrL4_055ba68cd8e90aca3963b7706344702a.jpg)[Monica S.](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/116235349613834447975/reviews)4 months agoIncredible experience. A must! Kayaking at starved Rock located in Ottawa Illinois just an hour and 25 minutes from Chicago's Midway airport. Online booking was easy, safe and with immediate response of time and location. The day of your booking you'll receive a text message with mapping and safety instructions prior to your arrival. parking is free and safe. Highly recommend the tour guide with Turtle 🐢 Rick. Rick narrates in a docent fashion about wildlife and land history throughout your tour. As well as fish jokes . An extra bonus , Rick will take a photo of you and post it on Facebook.. very nice touch! Thank you for an amazing first time kayaking experience.![Julie profile picture](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=50,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/ChIJnTLrAZyZDogRhFR0cInwrL4_ebbe2daa2e485002efe8ff9044e875a7.jpg)[Julie](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/115494861993846234516/reviews)6 months agoHad a great time!! Wendy and Will were amazing guides! I’d been hiking at Starved Rock but never kayaking. Highly recommend!![Gary H. profile picture](https://kayakstarvedrock.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=50,quality=82,format=auto,fit=scale-down,onerror=redirect/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/ChIJnTLrAZyZDogRhFR0cInwrL4_6062d772eabdfc07c3376ba262252f4a.jpg)[Gary H.](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/106035592547229608190/reviews)8 months agoIf you’re looking for the absolute best way to get outdoors and truly enjoy the water, weather, and breathtaking views, Kayak Starved Rock is it. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ From start to finish, the experience was top-notch. The staff was friendly, organized, and made everything simple and stress-free. They took the time to explain the route, safety tips, and what to expect on the water, which made the whole trip smooth and enjoyable. There is just something special about being out on the water at Starved Rock. The views are incredible — towering rock formations, beautiful tree lines, and peaceful stretches of river that let you really soak in the scenery. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re paddling at your own pace or just floating and taking in the sunshine, it’s hands-down one of the best ways to experience the outdoors. The kayaks were well-maintained and comfortable, and the entire setup made it easy to focus on enjoying the moment. If you love being outside, feeling the breeze, and exploring nature from the water, this is a must-do. Five stars all the way. I’ll absolutely be back.