Recreation on the Kishwaukee River

Recreation

Kishwaukee Riveron the

By: Aimee Barrows

WHILE THE KISHWAUKEE RIVER MIGHT NOT BE AS BIG OR WELL-KNOWN AS THE ROCK RIVER OR FOX RIVER, THERE ARE PLENTY OF OPPORTUNITIES FOR PADDLEBOARDING, KAYAKING, CANOEING AND FISHING FOR FOLKS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF.

The “Kish” as it’s often referred to, begins on the south end near Shabbona and runs north through DeKalb, Sycamore and Genoa before branching off north toward Woodstock, and west toward Cherry Valley, eventually ending at the Rock River. The river bends and twists, and has several routes that folks can take while on their adventure. It flows through several forest preserves and nature parks that provide gorgeous, untouched scenery with an abundance of wildlife.

Christine Lagattolla, assistant director of outdoor recreation at Northern Illinois University, has hosted several expeditions along the Kish. She said that the best parts of the river are toward the north branch. She said that the water tends to be deeper, has fewer obstructions and has the most beautiful scenery.

“It’s a unique river, because it runs north and it’s not dammed. It’s a wild river and changes depths frequently because it bends so much,” she said. “The water levels are lower in DeKalb County but get more consistent near Rockford. There are some downed trees and obstacles along the river in DeKalb.”

Lagattolla recommends that boaters enter the river near Sycamore on Route 64 between First Street and Peace Road and head north. She said that there is an access point in Lions Park in DeKalb, but said the water isn’t as deep or navigable that far south.

For those who’d like to explore the river but don’t have the equipment, NIU’s Outdoor Adventures rents canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and other outdoor gear for an all-day expedition. Lagattolla said that many people don’t know that Outdoor Adventures, which is located at NIU’s student recreation center, allows the public to check out equipment. She said she wants to spread the word to encourage more people to visit the center.

“We’re a hidden gem. We have a slew of equipment that we rent yearround,” she explained. “We do have people coming from all over the area because there aren’t a lot of places that rent equipment at a reasonable cost. We want people to get outside and use this stuff. The Kish River is such a great resource. You can have nature experiences close to home.”

The Genoa Park District also rents canoes and kayaks, and can drop off patrons at Carroll Park’s river access point and pick them up at Kingston Park.

“When the water level is right, it’s very scenic,” said Paul Bafia, executive director of the Genoa Park District. “I’ve seen bald eagles, deer and wild turkey along the route. It’s very cool. The river gives people nice recreational options. Not many people know we do this, and I’d like to see more take advantage. It’s a nice opportunity to be outdoors with the family.”

For more information about the Genoa Park District canoe and kayak rentals, call (815) 784-5612, and for more information about NIU’s Outdoor Adventures program, visit niu.edu and search “Outdoor Adventures” or call (815) 753-9423.