Are there free boat ramps in Cook County, Illinois?

Yes — 19 public boat ramps in Cook County are listed as free or no-fee. Public ramps are operated by state, county, or city agencies and are open to anyone with a registered watercraft.

Do I need a permit to launch a boat at a free Cook County ramp?

Most public ramps in Illinois are free to use but you may need a current boater safety certificate and a registered watercraft. Some state-park ramps charge a parking fee even when the launch itself is free. Check the individual ramp page for current fee information.

Free Public Boat Launches in Cook County, IL

There are 19 free, public boat launches in Cook County, Illinois. All ramps on this page are operated by a public agency (state, county, federal, or municipal) with no launch fee or with public access listed by the maintaining authority.

All free public boat launches in Cook County (19)

All free public boat launches in Cook County (19)

Beck Lake

Alsip Boat Launch

Chicago, Illinois Boat Launch

Daley Park

Saganashkee Slough Boat Launch

River Park Canoe Landing

Tower Road Accessible Boat Launch

Linne Woods Canoe Landing

Northwestern Woods Canoe Landing

Dam No. 2 Woods Canoe Landing

Allison Woods Canoe Landing

Ping Tom Boat Launch

Chicago, Illinois Boat Launch

Busse Lake South Boat Launch

Big Bend Lake

Irving Park Rd. Picnic Area Canoe Landing

Maywood Grove Canoe Landing

Busse Lake Boat Launch

Stepan Family Boat Launch

Frequently asked questions