State: Illinois
Address 1: P.O. Box 54
City: Channahon
Zip: 60410
Phone: 815-467-4271
Open: Open all year
Open all Year: Yes
Camp URL: http://dnr.state.il.us/lands/Landmgt/parks/I&M/EAST/CHANNAHO/PARK.HTM#Camping
Full Hook: Yes
Channahon State Park is the official trailhead for the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail. Channahon is an Indian word meaning “the meeting of the waters” and signifies the joining of the DuPage, Des Plaines and Kankakee Rivers.
Picnicking
Mature oak, walnut, ash and cottonwood trees provide a cool shaded setting for a special gathering of friends and family. Grills and picnic tables are scattered throughout the park and along the waters edge. Ample room is available for volleyball, soccer, frisbee or a friendly game of baseball. A horshoe pit and playground equipment are located near the picnic area providing recreational opportunities for the younger children or just the young at heart. A large shelter with tables and grills is available on a first come first serve basis.
Camping
Primitive tent camping only: gear must be walked to campsite, no vehicular access. Fire rings, picnic tables, and grills are located in the camping area. A drinking fountain and pit toilets are located within a short distance from the camping area. A camping permit must be obtained from the information center.
Fishing
Anglers of all ages will enjoy fishing in either the Illinois & Michigan Canal or the DuPage River. Bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish and bullhead are waiting patiently to test the skills of even the best angler. Grab a pole, your favorite bait, a sack lunch and relax along the waters edge for an afternoon of enjoyable fishing.
Trail Access
The Channahon State park is a great starting point for a day on the trail. Sixty-one miles of trail along the old canal towpath gives access to unparalleled scenic and historic sights. In the spring, wildlife and wildflowers are abundant along the trail. Great blue herons can be observed as they feed or nest near the park and along the canal banks.
Canoeing
Canoeists can paddle 15 miles of the canal between Channahon and Morris. The beautiful scenery between these two points may only be outshadowed by the abundance of wildlife viewing opportunities. Due to the fragility of the canal embankments, only electric trolling motors are allowed.