Sangamon River Forest Preserve to Riverwood

The Sangamon River Runners are excited about gearing up for the 2023 paddling season!

Registration for this event is capped at 7 participants; 2 per canoe or 1 per kayak.

River and weather conditions willing, our first exploratory 5 mile float trip is on Sunday, March 5, departing from Sangamon River Forest Preserve (SRFP) at 10am and ending at Riverwood. Count on progress at around 1 mile per hour, given the uncertainly around river blockages, so plan to be out til 3pm at least. (end times are rarely predictable).

You can park at SRFP and try to be there by 9:30. It’s a bit of a hike with our watercraft to the put-in. We’ll help you get shuttled back up from the take-out at Riverwood.

You are also welcome to park at Riverwood, which is my house and is our take-out spot. Email me for directions if you  need them. We will depart Riverwood at 9:15, so be there by 9.

Bring some snacks and water for a lunch break, and probably a dry change of clothing, just in case. Air temps may be in the 40’s and water temps are not much higher than that.

We’re checking the river for blockages and picking up surface trash along the way. We’re going with experienced paddlers only this time since we can expect unknown blockages, cold water temperatures and possibly cooler air temps as well. Should be a fun adventure, but probably not for the faint of heart!

Registration is free but required through our event ticketing system below.

All trips are free, but you can pick up a stylish USRC cap for your generous donation of $20 or more. Look for USRC t-shirts coming up later this summer!

USRC River Runners:

Experienced paddlers may contact Scott Hays at riverrunners@sangamonriver.org for details on how to become a USRC River Runner and how to be added to the River Runners email list. Details and updates for float trips will be communicated through that list. The USRC River Runners float trips are always free, however we are always happy to receive donations if you are so inclined. Donations can be made through the donate link on this website.

Bookings