Now offering a 6.75-mile float trip! McDowell to Pontiac

Kayaking, canoeing or floating a tube down the Vermilion River offers a unique, personal experience, putting you closer to nature and further from the hustle of everyday life. A kayak or canoe offers a fantastic viewpoint for birdwatching or other nature-based activities, including fishing.

At Vermilion River Adventures, our second priority (after boater safety) is helping others to enjoy everything that the Vermilion River has to offer! Based on feedback from our customers and fans, we understand that a one-way float trip (point A to point B) is appealing to many, so we’re pleased to announce a specific service to fulfill this demand!

Learn more about the details of our McDowell to Pontiac float trip below. All float trips include the vessel rental, paddle, and personal flotation device, as well as a first aid kit and safety training. Bring your own fishing gear, tackle, and fishing license if you want to fish. Learn about our kayaks and canoes and plan your trip using our tips.

Pontiac Play Park – meeting point / parking

On the day of your float, we’ll meet up at the Play Park in Pontiac, where you’ll park your vehicle. We’ll finalize your rental, fit your PFD, then shuttle you out to the launch. Please consider completing your safety training in advance to expedite the process!

The Play Park is the end point of the float, so your vehicle will be waiting here when you get off the river at the end of the day. There is a large parking lot, but please note that neither Vermilion River Adventures nor the City of Pontiac are responsible for your vehicle, or any property left in the vehicle. Please take your valuables with you on the float or leave them at home.

McDowell Bridge – launch point

We’ll get the vessels and all gear down to the water and help you safely launch. From there, it is completely up to you how you explore the river!

It is roughly 6.75 miles from the bridge to the Play Park in Pontiac. If you’re paddling the entire time and have decent current, you can make it to the park in about 4.5-5 hours, but if you’re going to float, please plan to be on the water at least 6-8 hours or more. Bring adequate water, snacks, etc. We cannot stress this enough – bring enough water!

Shuttle Only option

A “Shuttle Only” option is available for those wanting to use their own floats, kayaks, canoes or other vessel. The meet, drop-off, and return point details are the same as above, however, you bring your own vessel. We’ll shuttle you to the launch point and help you get launched. Unloading at the Play Park is not included.

Important Notes for Float Trip

• The path down to the river at McDowell is steep and a bit rough. There are no real steps or stairs, nor handrail. Participants must be capable of walking down the embankment safely in order to reach the water.
• All property along the river is private property so please be respectful and do not trespass.
• Please also do not litter – take all garbage with you.
• Please review our rental policies and procedures and plan for your trip with our suggestions.