Fox River Boating Restrictions, Closures In Effect Due To High Water

Multiple sections of the Fox River and Chain O’Lakes remain under boating restrictions this week as high water levels and hazardous conditions persist, according to the Fox Waterway Agency and the Illinois Department of Natural Resource.

Zone A — the Lower River from the Algonquin dam to the Stratton lock and dam in McHenry— is closed to all navigation per an IDNR Office of Law Enforcement order issued Tuesday, the agency announced in a press release. Meanwhile, Zone B (the Upper River) and Zone C (the Chain O’Lakes) continue to be designated as no‑wake zones, meaning boaters must travel at idle speed with minimal wake to reduce hazards on the water.

The restrictions stem from elevated water levels and hazardous river conditions that make travel unsafe for recreational boaters and emergency responders, officials say.

The debris advisory covering the entire waterway remains in place, and boat operators are encouraged to stay alert for floating hazards and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.

Officials with the Fox Waterway Agency caution that, with additional rain forecasted this week, water levels are expected to remain high, and boaters should continue to observe all no‑wake zones and closures until conditions improve.

Officials have not yet announced when normal boating access will resume. Boaters can check the agency’s websiteor contact the FWA office for the latest updates and advisories.