Starved Rock or Lake Geneva? (Ottawa: rentals, camping, price)

[aamert]

I am going to be picnicking with the family TOMORROW Sunday May 25th and cannot decide if we should goto Lake geneva, WI or Starved rock.
Its going to be all adults and we would like to do some grilling, kayaking, boating and trail walking.

Does anyone have any suggestions based upon the above preferences?

I see the temperatures will be a little warmer in the Ottawa/Starved rock area but shelters will be nice if we can get them in-time, since there are chances for scattered showers at both places.

[Steve-o]

Id go to Lake Geneva for boating/kayaking and Starved Rock for grilling/trail hiking.

[aamert]

Steve-o,
but there are grilling locations in Lake Geneva right?
or at least kayak rentals at Starved Rock by Illinois river?

[Steve-o]

Originally Posted by aamert

Steve-o,
but there are grilling locations in Lake Geneva right?
or at least kayak rentals at Starved Rock by Illinois river?

Im not really sure, sorry! I have friend who kayaks down by Starved Rock, but mostly creeks in the area, never on the Illinois River. I know that when he doesnt have his truck to transport his kayak around, he rents them somewhere down there, couldnt tell you where though. As for grilling in LG? Not sure there either. I know, Im a real big help arent I?

[Steve-o]

A quick Google search came up with this, in nearby Wedron, IL:
C and M Canoe is located on the Fox River in Wedron, near Ottawa, Illinois

[aamert]

Steve,
Thanks for the links. I had searched quite a bit but couldnot really decide on which to choose.
Anyways, we ended up going to Geneva Lake, picnicked at Big foot beach park, and rented a couple of kayaks from someone to paddle in the lagoon.
Mind you, you cannot rent kayaks/canyons at the lagoon or Geneva Lake.
We paid some guy for using his kayaks.

Also, there is a rental place across the street at the Lake. They have speed boats, pontoons and wave runners but are very pricey and have minimum 2-3 hours requirement (B.S.) Plus poor customer service.

I wrote this up here in-case anyone needs any suggestions in the future.

[schu2u]

Hello,
I just came across your postings and just had to tell you about the kayak rentals that are available in Lake Geneva. There is a store downtown called Clear Water Outdoor that does complete rentals(and sales) of touring and sit-on-top kayaks, and canoes. They do several events and group paddles from the store and a few out of Big Foot Beach State Park. Check the website www.clearwateroutdoor.com (events, blog, or rentals) for more information. They also carry clothing, footwear, and gear.

The state park has great grills and plenty of space for some sweet frisbee and swimming time.

See you on the lake!
Sarah

[schu2u]

Oh, forgot to mention the trail hiking/running available with in the state park, and on the lake geneva shore path. The park has over 6 miles of trails that go all over the 200+ acre area, you can figure 8 and catch other trails if you want more mileage. The park also connects to the City of Lake Geneva Bike Trail system, so you can tour all around the city by bike while camping at the park. The Lake Path is open to the public and goes the entire 21 miles around the lake. It is beautiful! Call Clear Water Outdoor if you need help with making a plan for your Lake Geneva Adventure 262-348-2420.