One of Mahomet’s favorite warm-weather traditions is officially back.
Boat rentals are open for the season at Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve, giving families, couples, and weekend visitors a simple way to get out on the water without needing to own a boat.
Located right here in Mahomet, Lake of the Woods is already one of the area’s best spots for a walk, picnic, playground visit, or afternoon outside. Now, with pedal boats and kayaks available again, it is also an easy mini-adventure close to home.
What You Can Rent
Visitors can rent:
Pedal boats
Great for families, kids, and anyone who wants a relaxed ride around the lake.
Kayaks
A good option for those who want something a little more active while still enjoying the calm lake setting.
Rentals are available May 9 through Labor Day Weekend on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Hours are 12 PM to 7 PM, with the last rentals at 6 PM.
Rental Pricing
The current rental rates are:
| Rental Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Pedal boats | $13 per hour |
| Kayaks | $10 per hour |
Payments are e-payments only, so plan ahead. No cash is accepted.
Where to Go
The boathouse is located on the Lake of the Woods Peninsula at:
101 N. Lake of the Woods Rd.
Mahomet, Illinois
It is near the intersection of Tin Cup Road and Lake of the Woods Road.
A Simple Family Outing in Mahomet
This is one of those easy local activities that does not require much planning. Grab the kids, bring sunscreen, pack a few drinks, and head over for an hour on the water.
After your rental, you can make a full afternoon out of it with a walk through the preserve, a picnic, a stop at the playground, or a visit to the Museum of the Grand Prairie nearby.
For families in Mahomet, this is exactly the kind of local outing that makes summer feel like summer.
Quick Details
Location: Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve
Address: 101 N. Lake of the Woods Rd., Mahomet
Season: May 9 through Labor Day Weekend
Days: Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays
Hours: 12 PM to 7 PM
Last rentals: 6 PM
Pedal boats: $13 per hour
Kayaks: $10 per hour
Payment: E-payments only, no cash
For official details, visit the Champaign County Forest Preserve District’s watercraft rental page.
Looking for more local things to do? Explore more Mahomet parks and outdoor spots on Mahomet.com.
