Scenic Illinois River
The Illinois River is Oklahoma’s favorite recreational waterway. Entering the northeast corner of Oklahoma it flows south for 68 miles, moving into Lake Tenkiller about ten miles southeast of Tahlequah. The river was named after the Illinois Indians, once an important Algonquin tribe. The Illinois is the only river in Oklahoma that can accommodate float trips of several days in length.
The scenic Illinois River is the region’s finest canoeing river and is a Class II waterway. The upper portion of the river is surrounded by steep bluffs and ledges. The river is best fished from a canoe or flat bottom johnboat, though many public access points accommodate wade-fishing. The best time to fish the river is on weekdays and in the early morning and late evening hours. There are more than 70 species of fish in the river including small-mouth bass, black bass, channel catfish, sunfish and perch. The state-record trout was caught below the Tenkiller Ferry Dam.
There are many outfitters along the river that provide canoes, rafts, and kayaks. These outfitters also offer shuttle service up the river. They will deliver you to your launch point and assist in recovering the float devices. Many of them offer group discounts and lodging facilities. The Illinois is not dangerous, but be sure to observe all safety precautions, wear lifejackets, and make yourself aware of the current flow and level of the river.
You can also bring your own floatation device and launch from any public access point along the river.
For current river conditions and information, contact the Oklahoma Scenic River Commission at (918) 456-3251, osrc@fullnet.net. Or you may click http://www.oklahomascenicrivers.net/ for current river conditions and forecasts.
Float Operators:
All American Floats 866.696.2037
Arrowhead Resort 800.749.1140
Diamondhead Resort 800.722.2411
Eagle Bluff Resort 800.OKRIVER
Falcon Floats 800.OKFLOAT
Peyton’s Place 800.359.0866
Riverside Resort 800.749.2267
Sparrow Hawk Camp 800.722.9635
War Eagle Resort 800.722.3834