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Pekin Boat Club provides public boat ramp access to the Illinois River in Pekin, Tazewell County. The facility offers convenient access to this major waterway with parking available. As a long-established recreational facility (established 1961), it serves as a launching point for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboats exploring the Illinois River and its tributaries.
The Illinois River at this location is a substantial waterway—a major river system with an average flow of over 27,000 cubic feet per second and relatively gentle gradient of 0.3 feet per mile. These characteristics make it suitable for various paddling experiences, from casual kayaking to fishing trips. Paddlers should be aware of the river's size and current velocity (averaging 4.3 feet/second), particularly when planning routes or assessing their skill level. The site provides access to a 273-mile river system with significant drainage area, offering extensive exploration opportunities downstream and upstream.
For specific information about current hours of operation, fees, amenities, and rental options, contact Pekin Boat Club directly at the address listed (PO Box 361, Pekin, IL 61555) or visit their location in downtown Pekin. The site's proximity to major highways makes it easily accessible for day trips on the Illinois River.