Nippersink Creek
Where: McHenry County.
What to know: This is a narrow, curving creek that cuts through the nature-rich Glacial Park Conservation Area and the Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge. The water quality is very high, in part the result of the county’s stream-restoration project to re-meander a straightened agricultural ditch. The most popular trip is seven miles from Keystone Landing to Pioneer Landing.
And
The McHenry County Conservation District provides a water trail on the creek that can serve as a model for the region. Access and facilities are excellent from Keystone Landing below Wonder Lake to the Nippersink Canoe Base near the Fox River Chain O’Lakes and Route 12. Rest stops and picnic areas are carefully thought out, and there is little sign of trampling or misuse.
The Nippersink offers a quiet, enjoyable canoe experience away from noisy boat traffic, shoreline development, and potentially dangerous dams. Water quality is excellent in the Nippersink, and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency designates part of the water trail as a “highly valued aquatic resource.”
The McHenry County Conservation District recommends the following local outfitters for rentals: Ed’s Rental, McHenry, (815) 385-3232 (canoes & kayaks); Tip-A-Canoe, Burlington WI (262) 342-1012 (canoes & kayaks); Main St. Outfitters, Wauconda, (847) 526-7433 (kayaks only); or Scull and Oars, Wonder Lake, (815) 790-4249.
