Boat Launch Operations In Morris, Il: Open Or Closed?

If you're looking for a place to launch your boat in Morris, Illinois, then look no further than the William G. Stratton State Park. Named after an Illinois governor, the park was developed in 1959 to provide access to the Illinois River for boaters, anglers, and water-skiers. The site features four public boat launching ramps, a jet ski launching area, and ample parking space for over a hundred vehicles with trailers. With picnic tables, benches, drinking water, and restroom facilities, it's a great spot for a relaxing day by the water, whether you're a boater or not.

William G Stratton State Park

The park has four public boat launching ramps and a jet ski launching area located a short distance to the east of the boat ramps. It also offers walking trails and picnic areas for families. The GPS coordinates for the park show two ways in and out, although GPS only shows one way in and out.

Reviews for the park are positive, with one user on Yelp saying:

> "We love going here for a walk down the pathway and walk over by the river it's really beautiful and it gets pretty busy on the weekends in the summer."

Another review on Tripadvisor mentions that the park is a "must-see" if you like picturesque places to visit. They also mention that there are "tree-covered roads, hills and curves".

Illinois River access

The William G. Stratton State Park in Morris, Illinois, provides boat access to the Illinois River. The park features four public boat launching ramps, a jet ski launching area, picnic tables, benches, drinking water, restroom facilities, and ample parking space for over a hundred vehicles with boat trailers. The Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail borders the park to the north, offering 61 miles of hiking, biking, and nature exploration.

In addition to William G. Stratton State Park, there are several other locations near Morris, Illinois, that provide access to the Illinois River. These include McKinley Woods - Frederick's Grove, which offers a free boat launch area, and Heidecke Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area.

For those seeking a more comprehensive list of boat ramps and launches in Illinois, websites like "Living The Toon Life" provide an extensive directory of locations, including those specific to river access. This resource lists dozens of access points along various waterways, including the Illinois River, and distinguishes between public and private ramps.

Jet ski launching area

The William G. Stratton State Park in Morris, Illinois, has a dedicated jet ski launching area. This is located a short distance to the east of the four public boat launching ramps. The park has ample parking space, with room for over a hundred vehicles with boat trailers. There are also picnic tables and benches, as well as drinking water and restroom facilities near the launching area.

The William G. Stratton State Park was developed in 1959 to provide boat access to the Illinois River. It is named after an Illinois governor. The Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail forms a natural northern boundary for the park, with 61 miles of limestone-screened trail for hikers, bicyclists, nature lovers, and snowmobilers.

Boat dealers in Morris, IL

If you're looking to buy a boat in Morris, IL, there are a few dealers in the area that can help you out. Here's a list of boat dealers in Morris, IL, along with some details about each one:

Bedford Sales & Outdoors

Bedford Sales is a long-standing business in Morris, IL, known for its excellent customer service. With over 50 years of experience, they have been recognised as the premier bass fishing store in the Midwest by Mercury Marine®. They offer a wide range of new and used boats, including brands such as Phoenix, Vexus, Basscat, G3, and Suncatcher Pontoons. Their 27,000 square foot showroom can display up to 80 boats, and they also have an extensive selection of fishing gear and other boating supplies. Bedford Sales provides sales and service for Mercury® Motors, and Yamaha motors are available on boat packages.

Grand Sport Center

Grand Sport Center is a family-owned and operated business that has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 50 years. They specialise in new and pre-owned boats, carrying brands such as Donzi, Active Thunder, Cigarette Racing, Baja Marine, Four Winns, Crownline, and SeaRay, among others. They offer full service and parts at their showroom, and they also buy and sell boats, cars, motorcycles, and RVs. Grand Sport Center provides national transport and financing options for their customers.

When it comes to purchasing a boat in Morris, IL, these two dealers offer a range of options to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for new or used boats, parts, or service, Bedford Sales and Grand Sport Center are worth considering. Be sure to explore their websites or visit their showrooms to find out more about their offerings.

Boat ramps and launches

William G. Stratton State Park, Morris:

This park serves as a "launching pad to the Illinois River" and offers four public boat launching ramps, as well as a jet ski launching area. It's an excellent spot for boating, fishing, or water-skiing. The park also provides ample parking, picnic tables, benches, drinking water, and restroom facilities, making it a convenient and enjoyable location for a day on the water.

Heidecke Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area, Morris:

Heidecke Lake is another option in Morris, offering a boat launch point on Heidecke Lake.

Other Boat Ramps and Launches in Illinois:

• McKinley Woods - Frederick's Grove: A great spot for "outdoorsy" activities, offering a free boat launch area, camping, fishing, and hiking.
• Marseilles State Fish & Wildlife Area: This area offers boating, campgrounds, picnic areas, lookout benches, and trails along the Illinois River.
• Chain O'Lakes State Park: Located in the heart of Illinois' largest concentration of natural lakes, Chain O'Lakes State Park is a great option for boating.
• Anchor In Marina, Seneca: A marina with boat launching facilities.
• Alton Marina & Boat Ramp, Alton: A boat ramp and marina on the Illinois River.
• Carlyle Lake, Eldon Hazlet State Recreation Area, Carlyle: A public boat launching ramp on Carlyle Lake.

These are just a few examples of the many boat ramps and launches available in Illinois. Each location offers its own unique features and amenities, so be sure to check ahead to find the spot that best suits your needs and interests.

Frequently asked questions