guided eco-tour
rock river - Dixon, ILLINOIS
Join the Dixon Park District for a unique 2-to-3-hour guided educational paddle down the scenic Rock River! We will drop in at Grand Detour and float down to Lowell Park, exploring and learning about the incredible animals that live in, on, and around our local waterways. Booking groups of 3-8 TODAY!
Your guide
dayona (Ana)
If you ask Ana about her journey to the Rock River, she'll tell you she traded the ocean waves of San Diego for the scenic currents of Dixon back in 2011.
Swapping her boogie board for a paddleboard, she brought her sunny California spirit with her and fell completely in love with Illinois nature.
Today, she channels that "Cali girl turned local nature hippie" energy into exploring and protecting our waterways. When she isn’t leading educational tours or spotting local wildlife, you can find her practicing yoga or paddling the river.
She can't wait to share the beauty of the Rock River with you!
Trip Logistics & Booking
Plus Safety & Rules (Strictly Enforced)
Group Size: Minimum of 3 participants; maximum of 8 participants per tour.
Private Groups: You can book a private group of 3–8 people by emailing us at naturecenter@dixonparkdistrict.com.
Cost: The educational tour is entirely FREE if you bring your own kayak or paddleboard!
Rentals: Don't have equipment? Single kayaks are available to rent from our station at the Lowell Park boat docks.
Transportation Notice: The Dixon Park District does not provide transportation or shuttle services for participants, nor do we transport personal kayaks/paddleboards. Participants must coordinate their own vehicle drop-offs/pick-ups between Grand Detour and Lowell Park.
Safety & Rules (Strictly Enforced):
Life Jackets: Coast Guard-approved life jackets (PFDs) must be worn and zipped/buckled at all times while on the water. No exceptions.
Waivers: All participants must sign the standard liability waiver, and additional water-safety waivers will be required at check-in.
Alcohol Policy: Strictly no alcoholic beverages allowed before or during the tour.
Weather Dependent: Trips are subject to cancellation or rescheduling based on river conditions, high winds, or inclement weather.
What to bring
& more housekeeping
Water (stay hydrated!)
Sunscreen & sun protection (hats, sunglasses)
Snacks for the river
A waterproof bag or pouch for keys/phones
A Note on Tips & Donations:
Because we are a government agency and our guides are directors of public funds, we cannot accept tips. While tips are strictly prohibited, voluntary donations to support our nature center programming are always welcome at the office, though they are absolutely never necessary.
We just want to inspire you to fall in love with nature!
