Directions: Weber Park, which is owned by the McHenry Parks and Recreation Department, is located on the east side of Riverside Drive, just south of Broad Street in McHenry. Fox River Forest Preserve, owned by the Lake County Forest Preserve District, is located just south of Roberts Road, approximately two miles west of Route 59 in Lake Barrington.
Notes: This trip is not recommended for beginners and families because of concentrated motor boat traffic, boat wakes, and noise in a relatively narrow, shallow, and sometimes turbulent part of the river. Along this stretch, there are at least seven landings or access areas with picnic facilities, camping, and nearby hotels and restaurants. There is one portage at McHenry (Stratton) Lock and Dam. Fees may be required at private landings. The Fox Waterway Agency is responsible for maintenance and navigational improvements for motorized and non-motorized use in this section of the water trail.
Always check United States Geological Survey (USGS) water data before your trip.
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You can also drop in at the McHenry Dam Park if you don’t want to portage there. The river can be a little choppy with the boat traffic but it is a nice trip.