easy
4–6 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal paddling experience needed
Float down the Illinois River on a scenic 14-mile adventure with All American Floats. Enjoy stunning landscapes, swimming holes, and sandy beaches on this relaxing, self-guided float trip.
Ages 5+ • All Day Float Trip • Departs between 8:30-9am daily
Experience an exhilarating all-day float down the Illinois River, starting with a scenic transport to No Head Hollow Access. Navigate 14 miles of stunning landscapes, swimming holes, and sandy beaches at your own pace. Perfect for adventurous paddlers, this unique trip offers a memorable day of relaxation and exploration.
We transport you 14 miles upriver to No Head Hollow Access and you have all day to float down to us at All American Floats. Only kayaks and canoes are allowed for our 14-mile route.
This trip is not recommended for beginners. Please be prepared with plenty of food, drinks and sunscreen.
This route is an all-day float that lasts between 4-8 hours (depending on water conditions).
At All American, our number one concern is for the safety of you and your family. That being said, children under 3 years old are not able to float with us. It is simply not worth risking the safety of a small child to float the Illinois River. We appreciate your understanding and value your safety over everything.
Last departure for this route is 9am daily. Please plan to arrive by 8:30 am for check-in and preparation. Bus will leave daily at 9am.
On all trips, we take you upriver, and you float back to us and your car, no waiting on a bus to come pick you up. You can stay out as long as you want (as long as you're back by 7pm) while enjoying the beautiful scenery, amazing swimming holes and pull-off beaches.
Apply sunscreen generously before embarking to protect your skin from prolonged sun exposure.
Wear water shoes or sandals to comfortably navigate sandy beaches and rocky areas.
Follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and minimizing your impact.
Ensure good weather conditions to avoid sudden storms or strong currents.
The Illinois River has been an essential waterway for commerce and transportation for centuries, shaping regional history and ecosystems.
The Illinois River Alliance actively promotes river conservation efforts, ensuring the area remains pristine and accessible for future generations.
Protects skin from sun burn during all-day float trips.
summer specific
Keeps your essentials dry during water-based activities.
summer specific
Provides shade and keeps sun off your face.
summer specific
Optional but recommended for added safety during the float.