East Fork of the Ill Bayou

[Tmuse]

Has anyone ever run the east fork, looking for a good overnighter with the family.

[Trismegistus]

Yes. But it's not a great "overnighter for the family" -- much of it runs through private property, very rain dependent, numerous woody hazards, etc. The North Fork is better for at least it is contained mostly within national forest and already has several campsites strung out along the river. But the truth be told -- all three forks of the Illinois Bayou are not really conducive to "family friendly overnighters".

[Tmuse]

I thought that the east fork was in a wilderness area.

[Fish]

I remember the East Fork being pretty tight and choked with trees in places. I'd have to agree that it might not be the best family overnighter trip, unless you have a really adventurous family. Piney or Mulberry or Buffalo would probably all work well though.

- Fish

[Tmuse]

We have done all those runs in the past, everyone in the family either Kayaks, canoes or can run a raft, we were just looking for something new. Thanks for the info. Tim Muse

[Trismegistus]

The East Fork does run through the East Fork Wilderness Area but as soon as you break out of the forest you'll find a tree lined stream with adjoining pasture. Even as a wilderness area the area is still criss-crossed with ORV trails -- very similar to North Fork or Middle Fork. Not saying it's not a delightful place to paddle -- just that if I'm looking for a "family friendly overnighter" the East Fork is not at the top of my list -- in fact, it's not even on the list. Have to go with Fish on this one -- the Piney and Mulberry are far more appealing alternatives.

But hey -- it is something new -- and that means a lot.

[Jody]

I remember the East Fork being pretty tight and choked with trees in places. I'd have to agree that it might not be the best family overnighter trip, unless you have a really adventurous family. Piney or Mulberry or Buffalo would probably all work well though.

- Fish

VERY. i dont remember anyplace in ther not covered in some kind of thick vegetation (usually briars) along the bank, and i walked/ran/ chased a boat for a bunch of the way. barefoot. i cant talk about it anymore
Grant