Illinois River | TravelOK.com - Oklahoma's Official Travel & Tourism Site

15971 Hwy 10
Tahlequah, OK 74464
Phone: 918-456-3251
Fax: 918-456-3751

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H 79° L 57°

Description

Noted for its beauty, the scenic Illinois River is nestled in the heart of the Oklahoma Ozark Hills. The Upper Illinois River is an easy flowing, Class II river with a rock bottom and shores, delightful scenery and several stretches of mild rapids making for great float trip experiences.

The Illinois River offers over 60 miles of clear water rippling over flint rock. The Illinois River is said to be the best canoe stream in the state with interesting and sometimes challenging waters. Both experienced paddlers and novices will enjoy float trips on the Illinois River as it winds by high bluffs, gravel bars and lush forests.

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There are a number of float trip outfitters along State Highway 10 North which offer canoes, kayaks and rafts. Most outfitters rent the watercraft including life jackets and paddles and shuttle guests up the river, allowing them to float back down to the outfitter. Many float trip outfitters also offer camping, cabins or motels as well as amenities such as swimming pools, volleyball and basketball courts and picnic areas. Canoes offer superior maneuverability and make the float trip faster, while rafts carry more floaters and offer more stability. Outfitters can help floaters select the best watercraft for their group and skill level.

Wildlife is abundant along the scenic Illinois River including deer, fox, bobcats and a wide variety of birds. Bald eagles inhabit the area year-round.

The Illinois River offers excellent fishing for smallmouth and largemouth bass, channel and flathead catfish, walleye, and various sunfishes. The Lower Illinois River offers year round trout fishing. The designated fishing area is a 7.75 mile stretch from Tenkiller Dam to Highway 64 bridge near Gore. Bank access and boat ramps are available throughout the area for the convenience of fishermen. Overnight camping permitted at fee areas and the Gore Landing North. Daily limits and size regulations apply for brown trout and smallmouth bass.

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Amenities

On-site Activities: Canoeing/Rafting/Kayaking, Swimming, Watchable Wildlife

Rentals: Canoe Rental, Kayak Rental, Raft Rental

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5 comments

From Evelyn on 05/07/2013

This place looks amazing! The students at our high school have been going there since 2004.. Its an incredible experience.. Only two grades go each year and they come back not wanting to leave..

From TravelOK.com Staff on 04/22/2013

John, you'll find the links for several outfitters on the top right side of this page under 'See Related Listings.' For rates and availability, you'll need to contact them directly through the phone number or email address listed on their page. Best wishes and thank you for using TravelOK.com!

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More Information

View Illinois River Floater's Guide

View Illinois River Map

Videos

Enjoy an Illinois River float trip at Elephant Rock Nature Park

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From john N on 04/21/2013

i was wondering whats the pricing for a 5 person cabin?

From James on 06/23/2011

Look babe a day of fishing and floating

From Jennifer on 07/28/2010

The Illinois River is one of my favorite places! While growing up, my family floated the river every summer and I enjoyed taking my kids down the river several times too. Looking forward to taking grandkids to the Illinois River!