McHenry County Conservation District Presents Paddle in the Park

June 5, 2011 By
Cary, IL – Driving Route 14 in McHenry County’s Cary, IL is anything but serene, yet turn into The Hollows, McHenry County Conservation District’s 338 acre site just east of Route 31, and you’ll find a nature lover’s oasis.
“Lake Atwood is one of the best features of The Hollows and makes it an ideal place for beginner paddlers or experienced paddlers alike,” said Andy Talley Education Program Coordinator for the District.  This 20-acre self-contained artificial lake with boat ramp, fishing dock, picnic shelter and amenities includes a 1/2 acre of shallow, sandy-bottomed water and an area where the District hosted its yearly Paddle in the Park program on Saturday, May 21.

Canoe Kayak Voyager

Lake Atwood at The Hollows in Cary, IL welcomes all paddlers. Photo credit: Eric Neumann

 

Open to paddling enthusiasts of all ages the program provided multiple opportunities to learn about the sport. “Lake Atwood has calm, crystal clear water and it is small enough to be safe for beginners, but big enough to get some exercise and practice your paddling techniques,” described Mr. Talley.
Kayaks are fun!

Kayaks are fun! Photo credit: Eric Neumann

 

Canoeing and Kayaking on Lake Atwood

Canoeists and kayakers paddle Lake Atwood. Photo credit: Eric Neumann


Local paddle sport retailers and outfitters offered canoes and kayak clinics, and test paddles of a variety of boats and equipment. Participants included Richmond’s 2k Adventure Gear, Hoffman Estates’ Cabelas, Woodstock’s Capsurz – Windproof Your Cap, Richmond’s Flatwater Canoe and Kayak Rental, Lakemoor’s BK Boat n Sleds, Kayak Chicago.
Kayak Chicago SUP (stand-up paddle boards)

SUPs (stand-up paddle boards) joined in at Paddle in the Park. Photo credit: Eric Neumann  

 

Capsurz Windproof Your Cap Woodstock IL

Capsurz are American made in Woodstock, IL. Photo credit: Eric Neumann


Paddling organizations and clubs were on hand, too, with information on where to paddle, conservation and safety tips, and upcoming adventure trips. Explore more information at Illinois Paddling Council, Boone County Conservation District, Crystal Lake Rowing Club, Prairie State Canoeists, Chicago Kayak Club, Southwest Brigade, and Prairie Coast Paddlers.
 

Paddle in the Park MCCD

Paddle in the Park at The Hollows, Cary IL. Photo credit: Eric Neumann


An intermittent, soft rain complimented the day’s overcast skies. Crystal Lake’s Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen single-handedly nourished the masses that, dining beneath the picnic shelter, had clear view of the canoeists and kayakers enjoying Lake Atwood and the colorful charm of a voyager canoe.
People interested in finding out more about the McHenry County Conservation District should visit www.mccdistrict.org.

Southwest Brigade's voyager canoe.

Southwest Brigade's voyager canoe. Photo credit: Eric Neumann
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