Where is Mackinaw River?

Mackinaw River is a river in Illinois.

How is Mackinaw River rated?

Mackinaw River in Illinois has an average visitor rating of 4.5 out of 5, based on 182 reviews.

What amenities does Mackinaw River have?

Visitor-listed amenities at Mackinaw River include camping-nearby.

Updated August 13, 2025

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Photo: Interstate 155 at the Mackinaw River by Robert Guico (CC BY-SA 2.5) License

Mackinaw River

River

4.5(182 reviews)

Read reviews

Live flow only — judge the water in person

Use caution

Live flow only — judge the water in person: live streamflow is available but no water-temperature sensor is nearby.

Live streamflow is available but no water-temperature sensor is nearby.

See full conditions ↓Can I swim today? →

Use cautionGreat conditions todaycamping-nearby

Live flow only — judge the water in person

Use caution

Live flow only — judge the water in person: live streamflow is available but no water-temperature sensor is nearby.

Live streamflow is available but no water-temperature sensor is nearby. — USGS gauge 05565600, as of Aug 22, 1:30 PM gauge-local time

Gage height

15.83 ft

water level

No official beach-advisory feed for Illinois yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.

Live, provisional data from USGS gauge MACKINAW RIVER NEAR HUDSON, IL (1 mi away), as of Aug 22, 1:30 PM gauge-local time.

Live map near here →

Weather at Mackinaw River

H: 81° L: 64°

Sunny

81°

Feels like 83°

Precipitation

70%

Humidity

54%

Wind

13 mph

UV Index

Water Conditions:

🏊Perfect for swimming🧴High UV - use sunscreen

12 AM

70°

3 AM

68°

6 AM

64°

9 AM

70°

12 PM

78°

3 PM

81°

6 PM

78°

9 PM

68°

Pack smarter for Mackinaw River

Useful gear categories for this kind of water spot. These links open Amazon search results so you can compare current options.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

River Water ShoesGood grip helps on slick rocks, banks, and shallow crossings.

Compare on Amazon →

River TubeUseful to compare if tubing is part of the plan.

Compare on Amazon →

Floating Dry BagKeeps valuables together around current and splash.

Compare on Amazon →

Polarized SunglassesCuts glare for fishing, paddling, and reading shallow water.

Compare on Amazon →

Frequently asked questions

Where is Mackinaw River?: Mackinaw River is a river in Illinois.
Can you swim at Mackinaw River?: Live flow only — judge the water in person: live streamflow is available but no water-temperature sensor is nearby. Checked August 22, 2026.
How is Mackinaw River rated?: Mackinaw River in Illinois has an average visitor rating of 4.5 out of 5, based on 182 reviews.
What amenities does Mackinaw River have?: Visitor-listed amenities at Mackinaw River include camping-nearby.

Visitor Reviews

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Best Times to Visit

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Right Now

Perfect conditions right now!

🌊 Rivers & Streams Tips:

›Check water levels and current conditions before visiting
›Wear life jackets when on the water
›Be aware of rapids and potential hazards
›Respect private property along riverbanks

Best Seasons:

☀️ Summer (Jun-Aug)🍂 Fall (Sep-Nov)🌸 Spring (Mar-May)

Location & Contact

Illinois

Illinois None

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