Kankakee River State Park

The state of Illinois has over 60 state parks to enjoy, and one of the best is the Kankakee River State Park. This four-thousand-acre park follows the Kankakee River on both sides, and offers lots of recreational activities both on water and land for adventurous pups and their people . 

Water activities here include fishing, boating, and canoeing. Boat launches are located throughout the park. Swimming is not recommended at this park due to the fast currents. If you are planning on going fishing for crappie, bluegill, shad, sunfish, or drum to name a few, you will need to get an Illinois State fishing license before you arrive. 

The hiking trails stretch all along the Kankakee River throughout the park on both sides. Keep your dog on a leash while you are on the trails, and an eye out for dangerous critters like rattlesnakes that may be unhappy to share the trail with you. There are also biking, equestrian and cross-country ski trails in the winter. Take a break at one of the picnic tables, or shelters equipped with grills in different locations throughout the area.

Campsites available at the Kankakee River State Park include two public campground areas and cabins where you're allowed to bring your four-legged family members. The Potawatomi Campground has over one hundred sites and two cabins. Some of these sites have water and electricity, some just have electricity, and some are just concrete slabs in a woodsy area. The Chippewa Campground has 98 sites, some with showers and electric, and some that are primitive for those who like to rough it. The campgrounds are only open during the spring and summer seasons, and you can reserve a spot online. While entrance is free to the park, camping site fees do vary.

Since clean-up bags are not available in the Kankakee River State Park, you'll need to bring your own, and always stoop and scoop wherever you travel in the park. Also have water on hand to share with your thirsty pup. Human restrooms are available at campsites and various locations throughout the park.

For a woofderful time exploring the outdoors with your pup, head to the Kankakee River State Park today!