Illini State Park - Mallard Bay

Illini State Park's Mallard Bay boat ramp provides excellent access to the Illinois River, a major waterway with significant flow and steady current. As a Stream Order 9 river with an average flow of over 27,000 cubic feet per second and velocity of 4.3 feet/second, paddlers should expect moderate to strong current conditions and plan accordingly for their skill level and vessel type. The river's gentle 0.3 ft/mile average gradient makes it suitable for various paddling and boating activities across its 273-mile length through Illinois.

The access site features wooden accessible boat docks and a dedicated boat ramp designed to accommodate multiple vessels. The park includes restrooms, picnic areas with tables and grills, and serves as a popular destination for both paddlers and anglers targeting crappie, bass, bluegill, catfish, and carp. As a day-use area, Mallard Bay offers convenient facilities for launching kayaks, canoes, and motorboats for afternoon outings on the river.