Download Our Guides
Register Online
Youth or Youth & Adult Programs
Eco-Kayak Adventures
Eco-Kayak Week
Paddle, explore, and learn the wonders of Round Lake. Join staff for a fun three-day kayaking adventure where each day highlights a different aspect of the lake’s ecology. Participants will learn about local birds, fish, aquatic plants, and the native-planted shoreline. They will also learn about common invasive species and how to identify them. Combine hands-on ecology lessons with paddling practice for a unique outdoor learning experience perfect for curious young naturalists!
18927
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
Canoeing Basics
Canoeing basics
Grab a paddle and set off on a water adventure! In this one-day program, beginners will learn canoe safety, steering techniques, and basic paddling skills. Start by practicing in the calm pond area, then, if weather and skills allow, venture out to explore the channel and Round Lake. Perfect for anyone ready to try something new on the water!
Note: Fishing and paddling programs are weather dependent. In the event of heavy rain, thunder, or lightning, programs will be cancelled.
18925
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
Learn to Kayak
Paddle Adventures: Kayaking
In this three-day course, kids will learn essential kayak safety and basic paddling techniques. Participants will have the chance to kayak through the channel and, weather and skills permitting, venture onto Round Lake. Hands-on instruction, outdoor adventure, and plenty of paddling fun make this the perfect introduction to kayaking
18901
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
18902
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
Paddle sport Adventures
Youth Paddlesports Adventure Program
Explore all of our paddle sports! Participants will spend one day each kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike, this program teaches essential paddling skills in a supportive, engaging, and safety-focused environment.
Participants will learn basic strokes, boat control, water safety, lifejacket use, and responsible on-water behavior. Participants will grow in their teamwork skills through partner paddling as well as confidence and independence as they explore paddling activities at their own pace.
Each day blends skill development with games, exploration, and fun on the water. No prior paddling experience is required—just a willingness to try something new and enjoy the outdoors!
18929
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
Kayaking Basics
Kayaking Basics
In this program, participants will learn essential kayak safety and basic paddling techniques from experienced instructors. Test your skills in the pond area and, explore the channel and Round Lake. This is a fun, hands-on introduction to kayaking!
Note: Fishing and paddling programs are weather dependent. In the event of heavy rain, thunder, or lightning, programs will be cancelled.
18923
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
18924
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
Canoeing Adventure
Canoeing is a unique way to travel on the water that requires teamwork, balance, and awareness. In this program, you’ll learn how to safely maneuver a two-person canoe. Don’t have a partner? No problem—we’ll pair you with another participant so everyone can enjoy the experience. A fun, hands-on introduction to canoe paddling for beginners!
18930
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
Paddleboarding for Kids
Paddleboard Adventures for Kids
Get ready to glide across the water! In this one-day course, kids will learn paddleboard safety and basic paddling techniques. Participants will explore the calm waters of Round Lake, while building confidence and having fun on the board. Instruction takes place near the Lakefront Park beach, making it a safe and exciting introduction to paddleboarding!
18904
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
18905
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
Kayak on Nippersink Creek
This scenic 6-mile point-to-point paddle on Nippersink Creek offers a tranquil and immersive nature experience, suitable for both beginner and experienced paddlers. The journey runs from Keystone Landing to Pioneer Road Landing, winding through the beautiful Glacial Park Conservation Area in McHenry County.
Distance: Approximately 6.0 miles
Estimated Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on paddle speed and water levels
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate, caution is needed with high water levels and occasional debris.
Meet at Pioneer Road Landing, 7049 Pioneer Rd., Richmond, IL (take out location). We will bus participants to Keystone Landing.
You will be bussed to: Keystone Landing, 6500 Keystone Rd., where we will put in.
18932
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
Kayak on the Nippersink
"Enjoy a scenic 6-mile paddle along Nippersink Creek in McHenry County. We will meet at Pioneer Road Landing and shuttle to Keystone Landing, where participants will receive safety gear and a brief orientation. The downstream journey back to Pioneer Landing takes approximately 2.5 -3 hours.
Please Note: Prior paddling experience is required. Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen. You are welcome to bring snacks or a picnic, but please 'pack wisely' as all trash must be carried out. Weather and water levels may affect trip viability."
19183
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
Tentative
Nippersink Forest Preserve
Age:
11+
Fees
$35 (R) $45 (NR)
Sat: Sep. 26
9:30 am: 4h30m
Kayaking Basics
This beginner-friendly program teaches the fundamentals of paddling, including essential safety practices and basic maneuvering skills. After an introductory lesson, you’ll head out onto Round Lake to practice your new skills in a supportive, hands-on environment. All kayaking equipment is provided. Registration is required.
19186
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
Kayaking Basics
This beginner-friendly program teaches the fundamentals of paddling, including essential safety practices and basic maneuvering skills. After an introductory lesson, you’ll head out onto Round Lake to practice your new skills in a supportive, hands-on environment. All kayaking equipment is provided. Registration is required.
19187
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
Evening Cruise
Evening Cruise
Enjoy a tranquil and picturesque evening on Round Lake with a relaxing pontoon cruise. As the sun sets, you can leave the hustle and bustle of the day behind and unwind on the water. All necessary safety equipment is provided for a worry-free trip.
18926
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
Adult Only Programs
Paddleboard 101
Paddleboard 101
In this one-day course, adults can learn paddleboard safety and essential paddling techniques. Enjoy the opportunity to paddle around Round Lake, while building balance, confidence, and a love for the water. Instruction takes place near the Lakefront Park beach, making it a safe and fun introduction to paddleboarding.
18906
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
18907
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
Paddle Birding (Adults)
Paddle Birding: Kayak & Observe
Join a staff-led kayak adventure on Round Lake in search of waterfowl and other fascinating birds. Meet at Huebner Shores for a brief orientation on kayak safety and wildlife etiquette, then set out on the water to explore the lake and channel. The shoreline is more that 2 miles of paddling, and prior kayaking experience is required. This program is designed for adults to paddle, observe, and enjoy a peaceful, bird-filled outing on the water!
18928
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
Sunset Paddle
Sunset Paddle: Evening Kayak Adventure
Experience the magic of Round Lake as the sun sets. Join staff for a relaxing kayak paddle, starting at Huebner Shores with a brief safety orientation. Glide through the channel and out onto the lake, enjoying the peaceful evening scenery and the calm of the water.
This program is for adults only, and prior kayaking experience is required. A perfect way to unwind and connect with nature at the day’s end!
18967
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
Senior Only Programs
Pontoon Boats
Join us for a relaxing pontoon ride on Round Lake to enjoy the beautiful summer weather. We will meet at Lakefront Park: 1019 N. Lake Shore Drive, Round Lake. *This program will be rescheduled in the event of inclement weather.
18977
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
18978
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
18979
M
TU
W
TH
F
SA
SU
