Friends of the Forest Preserves

Family Canoeing on the Little Calumet River with Friends of the Forest Preserves and Friends of the Chicago River.

Come join us for a fun-filled day of canoeing on the beautiful Little Calumet River at Kickapoo Woods! This event is perfect for families looking to enjoy the great outdoors together. Get ready to bond with your loved ones while exploring the scenic river and taking in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

We recommend paddlers are at least 10 years old and minors paddle with a guardian. Younger river lovers from 5-10 years old are invited to enjoy the event with their family by sitting in the center of the canoe. Space is limited, so registration is required.

No paddling experience necessary. We’re partnering up with the experts at Friends of the Chicago River, whose experienced canoe guides will help everyone safely load in and out of the canoes, answer questions about the river along the way, and act as safety monitors on the water. We provide all equipment, paddling instruction, and a safety talk. All participants need to sign a paddling waiver which will be sent to you in the confirmation email, and blank waivers will also be available on location. Trips start and end from the same location, rain or shine! Check out Friends’ canoe trip FAQs for more details.

Thanks to the Forest Preserves of Cook County for providing access to this beautiful river!