Established in 1971, Prairie State Canoeists (PSC) continues to be one of the Midwest's largest clubs with approximately 400 family memberships. Most members live in the Chicagoland area. The club sponsors over 150 trips a year (flat water and whitewater). Day-trips are common, and multi-day trips may include camping. ACA-certified instructors conduct a series of annual training trips for club members of all skill levels. The club's major concerns are clean rivers, river access, and improving put-ins and take-outs on rivers across the upper Midwest.

About Us

Prairie State Canoeists (PSC) is a not-for-profit organization with about 500 members. Volunteer club members organize more than 150 recreational and educational paddling trips annually. Prairie State Canoeists is organized in accordance with the Not-For-Profit Corporation Act of the State of Illinois.

Mission

The Prairie State Canoeists organization benefits its members and the general public by promoting canoeing, kayaking and related activities, including the establishment, maintenance and preservation of canoe trails and natural water courses, the conservation of natural resources, and the promotion of an ecological awareness in its members and the general public.

Trips

A majority of our trips are within a 100 mile radius of Chicago, in the northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin area.  We also travel to northern Wisconsin, Indiana, Michigan, and Iowa, with some adventuresome paddlers venturing as far away as Arkansas and Montana.  Most of our trips are one-day outings; a few are week-long canoeing/camping trips. Kayaking has become as popular as canoeing among our members.  A list of current trips is available in the "Trip Schedule " section of our web site.

Prairie State Canoeists does NOT provide equipment on trips.

View current trip schedule

Membership

For many years, membership dues have been $20 per year for an entire family.  Members receive a new member packet, 4 newsletters per year detailing upcoming trips, and reports of previous trips, interesting news items and a membership directory.

View more information on becoming a member of PSC

Meetings

Winter, Spring and Fall meetings are held each year for the purpose of electing officers and directors, transacting Club business, and planning the year's activities.  This is also a great place to socialize with other members and trade paddling and river experiences.

Officers

Click here for a list of our officers.

General Information

Guidelines for Safe and Enjoyable Paddling
River Ratings
General Terms
Points, Patches and Awards
Bylaws and Procedures