The Illinois River is said to be the best canoe stream in the state of Oklahoma with interesting and sometimes challenging waters. Both experienced paddlers and novices … enjoy float trips on the Illinois River as it winds by high bluffs, gravel bars and lush forests.1
There are a number of float trip outfitters along Scenic State Highway 10 North which offer canoes, kayaks and rafts. Most outfitters rent the watercraft including life jackets and paddles and shuttle guests up the river, allowing them to float back down to the outfitter. Many float trip outfitters also offer camping, cabins or motels as well as amenities such as swimming pools, volleyball and basketball courts and picnic areas. Canoes offer superior maneuverability and make the float trip faster, while rafts carry more floaters and offer more stability. Outfitters … help floaters select the best watercraft for their group and skill level.2
Wildlife is abundant along the scenic Illinois River including deer, fox, bobcats and a wide variety of birds. Bald eagles inhabit the area year-round.3
The Illinois River offers excellent fishing for smallmouth and largemouth bass, channel and flathead catfish, walleye, and various sunfishes. The Lower Illinois River offers year round trout fishing. The designated fishing area is a 7.75 mile stretch from Tenkiller Dam to Highway 64 bridge near Gore. Bank access and boat ramps are available throughout the area for the convenience of fishermen. Overnight camping permitted at fee areas and the Gore Landing North. Daily limits and size regulations apply for brown trout and smallmouth bass.4
One of the most remarkable and unique features constituting a draw for the area is that tourists can get a variety of outdoor experiences within a compact geographic area including the Illinois River, Lake Tenkiller, The Cherokee Nation, and Tahlequah with its artisan musical offerings and fine restaurants. Tourists nationally on average will spend four days on a regional vacation, and the area offers a compliment of activities to fill the time. Illinois River tourism is unique because of its Ozarks Bioregion characteristics which bring visitors from West, South and North.
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