
Activity
Conditions
Amenities
West Front Street
West Front Street is a public boat ramp on Kankakee River near Aroma Park, Illinois. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.
At a Glance
Water Body
River
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Good
Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
About This Location
Launch into Kankakee River near Aroma Park, Illinois. Beginner level with mild current water.
West Front Street is a public launch site on Kankakee River in Illinois, serving as a popular put-in for paddlers exploring this section of the river.
This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.
You can expect mild current water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
Located about 5 min from Aroma Park, West Front Street is a convenient option for Aroma Park-area paddlers.
Paddling Tips
- •River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
- •Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
- •Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
- •Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access West Front Street?
- West Front Street is a public boat ramp in Illinois. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at West Front Street?
- West Front Street supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at West Front Street?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit West Front Street?
- The best time to paddle at West Front Street is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at West Front Street?
- Water conditions at West Front Street include mild current.
- Is West Front Street good for beginners?
- Yes, West Front Street is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 41.0761, -87.8085
Quick Facts
- State
- Illinois
- Region
- Midwest
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Aroma Park
41.0761, -87.8085
Best Paddling in Illinois
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Kankakee River
6 other launches on this water body

Cobb Boulevard
Illinois · 2.6 mi
East Keyser Street
Illinois · 10.3 mi

Momence Anchor Club
Illinois · 10.7 mi
Kankakee River State Park
Illinois · 14.3 mi
Illinois-Indiana Stateline Road
Indiana · 16.0 mi
Kankakee Conservation Area
Illinois · 28.9 mi
Nearby Paddling
Aroma Park
Illinois · 0.5 mi

Cobb Boulevard
Illinois · 2.6 mi
East Keyser Street
Illinois · 10.3 mi

Momence Anchor Club
Illinois · 10.7 mi
Kankakee River State Park
Illinois · 14.3 mi
Illinois-Indiana Stateline Road
Indiana · 16.0 mi