There are many outdoor things to do and see in Ottawa. Often referred to as the “Scenic Gateway to Starved Rock State Park,” Ottawa is just minutes from the legendary wooded cliffs, soaring river bluffs and impressive waterfalls that attract more than two million visitors a year. Whether hiking along the I&M Canal or fishing in the Illinois River, Ottawa is a “natural” delight.

Power-boating, sailing and jet skiing are extremely popular in the “The Town of Two Rivers,” with public access ramps conveniently located in the city's Allen Park.

Winter enthusiasts enjoy cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and hiking along the many inspiring canyons and ice-sculpted waterfalls along nearby scenic State Park trails.

Enjoy the magic of Ottawa, whether by hiking nature trails, mountain biking, canoeing or simply by contemplating the scenic vistas. Ottawa offers a complete list of things to do and places to visit.

Ayers Landing Canoe Rental 3494 E. 2089th Rd | Wedron , IL, 61350 | 815-434-2233 OR 800 540 2394 |

Buffalo Rock State Park Dee Bennet Road | Ottawa, IL, 61350 | | Buffalo Rock State Park is located on a bluff which was once an island in the Illinois River. Now standing majestically on the north bank, this promontory affords a magnificent sweeping view of the Illinois River. Located approximately three miles west of Ottawa in LaSalle County, this 298 acre park has long been a favorite picnic area, as well as a nature lovers delight. The area of Buffalo Rock was the home of the Illinois Indians when Louis Jolliet, the French explorer, and the Jesuit missionary priest Father Jacques Marquette made their trip up the Illinois River in 1673. Later the Illinois Tribe was virtually annihilated in protracted warfare with the aggressive Iroquois....Visit Website

C & M Canoe Rental 3410 E 2062nd Rd | Ottawa, IL, 61350 | 815-434-6690 |

Catlin Park 2560 E. 1251 Road | Ottawa, IL, 61350 | 815 434 0518 | Open May through October, Catlin Parks 333 acres are a mix of pine and deciduous forests, prairie grasses, rugged ravines, winding stream beds, deer in abundance, wild turkeys, birds, squirrels, and rabbits. The park's well-organized trail system hosts 14 distinct trails plus numerous connector trails. These trails course throughout the park's habitats, including its various streams and ponds. The trails are used by horseback riders, hikers, mountain bikers, joggers, birdwatchers, and photographers. The well-groomed trails are perfect for novice horses or riders, yet challenging enough for more seasoned riders. Adjacent to a 120x60 ft. horse arena is an obstacle course used by the LaSalle County Sheriffs Mounted Search and Rescue Posse. This course, which provides various desensitizing activities for training horses, is open to the public. Parking areas, picnic shelters, playground equipment, water, and outdoor restrooms are strategically located throughout the trail system. Minimal fees for trail use by horses and bicycles help to defer costs of upkeep....Visit Website

Heritage Harbor Ottawa 1970 N 2753rd Rd | Ottawa, IL, 61350 | 815-433-5000 | Fax: 815-433-5016 | Coming soon! See their website for a full description....Visit Website

Matthiessen State Park Route 178 | Utica, IL, 61350 | 815-667-4276 | Canyons, streams, prairie and forest combine to delight visitors at Matthiessen State Park. Located in central LaSalle County, approximately four miles south of Utica and three miles east of Oglesby, Matthiessen is a paradise for those interested in geology as well as recreation. Visitors can expect to see beautiful rock formations in addition to unusual and abundant vegetation and wildlife. All of this, along with park and picnic facilities, make Matthiessen State Park a popular choice for a special outing...Visit Website

River Adventures 3215 E 1969th Road | Ottawa, IL, 61350 | 815-481-2142 | Located along the Fox River Dells at "Skydive Chicago", north of Ottawa, Illinois - in Dayton. Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of the Fox River...follow the path taken centuries ago by pioneers and Native Americans - by canoe. Discover and explore the beauty and wonders in your own backyard. ...Visit Website

Skydive Chicago 3215 E 1969th Road | Ottawa, IL, 61350 | 815-431-0000 | Nestled on the West bank of the Fox River approximately 75 miles from Chicago lies the Skydive Chicago" Airport, designed from the ground up to efficiently function as a skydiving training and recreation center. This 230-acre complex contains a large hangar that provides 15,000 square feet of shade and shelter adjoining 22,500 square feet of classrooms, common areas with satellite feed, recreation centers with pool tables and video games, a pro shop, video department and deli that serves food and alcoholic beverages. At night, enjoy movies or a club-type party in our two level auditorium theatre, featuring a 30,000-watt sound and projection system. Just to the East is a full hook-up campground featuring a large pond that¹s surrounded by sprawling decks and highlighted by a serene island. On the North shore is a beautiful white sand beach that adjoins a large pavilion with showers, laundry facilities and volleyball court. This entire complex is surrounded by acres of pastures that gently roll to the banks of the Fox River. Canoeing, hiking/biking trails and horseback riding are also available on the property. ...Visit Website

Starved Rock State Park Rt 71 & Rt 178 | Utica, IL, 61373 | 815-667-4726 | Experience the fun of outdoor adventure at Starved Rock State Park. Whether you enjoy hiking along the nature trails or viewing the many spectacular overlooks along the Illinois River, recreational opportunities abound. From picnicking to fishing to boating, from horseback riding to camping to enjoying winter sports, there's so much to do that you'll come back again and again....Visit Website