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It has been a long road, but we have finally reached our destination!

Rocktown Adventures is now out at Rock Cut State Park! We now operate and manage Rock Cut’s Outdoor Store, Lone Rock Café, Camp Store and Olson Lake Beach. A project that started with a meeting on Halloween 2019, when we got a couple inches of snow, has finally reached the finish line!  

What does this mean for our customers?

You can expect to find the same quality of products and outdoor experiences you have come to know from our downtown store, out at Rock Cut State Park. You can also expect an increase in programs designed to give you the skills and confidence to safely engage with the outdoors. And you can expect to be treated with the same respect, courtesy and professionalism delivered with a smile (and sometimes a corny joke) that you have experienced in our store or on one of our adventures.  

We are not looking to reinvent the wheel, as the previous ownership did a great job increasing recreational opportunities at the park. We are looking to build off this foundation with the goal of turning Rock Cut State Park into THE destination for outdoor recreation in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. When someone thinks of Rockford, we want to them to think outdoor adventure. Combined with the multitude of other recreational offerings, people and organizations dedicated to the outdoors that we are lucky to have, we are well on our way! 

We want to hear from you!

If you have questions, comments or suggestions on how we can improve your experience at the Park, please let us know! We welcome all feedback that will help you enjoy your time at the Park. At the end of the day, it is YOUR Park – we just get the privilege of managing it for you! 

National Safe Boating week is coming up!

It’s A week we all look forward to, right?

We know – Safety doesn’t sell. But it will help make sure you return safely from the water. There are more boaters are on the water now, more than ever before (we can attest to the growth in kayaks). The timing of this could not be better. Right before the season, as everyone is ready to Gear Up & Head Out, please take a moment to brush up on your boat safety ABC’s to ensure a safe and memorable experience for everyone on the water. 

A decent amount of this growth on the waterways is from newcomers. If you know someone new to the water, please advise them to learn the rules and regulations of the waterways they will be on and let them know to wear a PFD at all times when paddling. It is important that boaters limit unnecessary risk to other boaters, themselves, law enforcement and first responders. 

A simple rule we as paddlers can follow is “Wear It.”  In 2019, 79 % percent of all boating fatalities were the result of drowning, and 86% of these occurred in instances where the victim was not wearing a life jacket/PFD. The math seems pretty obvious. So, join in the movement to promote wearing a PFD on May 21, which is National Wear Your PFD To Work Day. We will have a contest on social media for this so checkout our Facebook page! 

If you have any questions or want more information on safe boating, we have pamphlets at our store in Rockford. You can also give us a call or contact us – Enjoy the water, but always do so with a life jacket on – they save lives! #safeboating 

As the world closed down around us, the outdoors & paddling opened up for many people

Getting outdoors has provided refuge during the storm, a chance to socialize and safely interact with others, and an opportunity for exercise. (Yes, the outdoors can replace your gym for exercise!)  

One activity that we witnessed explode in popularity was kayaking. They flew out of stores last year and so far this year. This demand naturally led to other people getting interested in paddling. And who can blame them! We rarely see someone paddle for the first time and when done state “That was not fun. I am never doing that again”.  

An Intro class is highly recommended but not required for heading out on a calm, protected area of a lake, provided you are with someone that is experienced. You can pick up some tips on land and have a nice paddle. But as a beginner, you do not know what you do not know about paddling, and that is where some instruction comes in.  Below you can find paddling events that will help you enjoy your time on the water:  

Intro to Kayaking Class

A three hour course designed for beginners that will provide you the skills to have a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. Class is on a lake, so we are not dealing with current.  

Hump Day Paddles

Bi-weekly social paddles designed as an introduction to paddling on a river. No prior experience necessary, but we recommend you have at least been in a kayak before. Staff is on the water as we navigate upstream from the Prairie Street Brewhouse to the YMCA, then turn around and come back. Time on the water is about one hour. While we paddle, grill is fired up for a quick bite and beverage after we paddle next to the store. (Beverages are BYOB). Good opportunity to have your paddling skill gauged so you can join on river trips.  

Safety and Rescue Class

A three hour course designed to for paddlers with some experience. Strongly recommend an Intro Class prior to taking this one. A few years paddle experience, even without any formal instruction, should also provide the foundation to take part in this class. During this course you will learn basic safety and rescue techniques such as wet exit and entry, assisted rescues, and an overview of general safety equipment. You will get wet so dress accordingly! 

River Trips

Throughout the paddle season, we offer guided trips on our area rivers, along with a couple overnight kayak trips. There are varying degrees of skill required on a particular trip and we make note of that in the event copy. Most of our local guided trips are 2 hours, with a total time commitment of 3 hours when you take into consideration shuttle, unloading gear, and launching.  

Moving Water Class

This three hour course is designed for the intermediate paddler and will provide the foundation for save river navigation when paddling without a guide. Learn basic river running techniques such as ferrying, eddylines, and reading obstacles, plus what to do in certain situations you could encounter.  

Contact us or stop by our store in Rockford, IL if you have any questions on these events or paddling in general. Events thru June are on our calendar and more will be added. We also offer private trips and classes so if our schedule does not meet yours, we still have a way to help you Head Out.  

One last thing….always wear your PFD while paddling!

Shop OUR Rocktown Adventures Mother’s Day SALE for gifts that will excite her outdoor passions

We have something for every kind of Mom. From paddlers to hikers to backyard lounging, we can help you enjoy your time outside. From May 1–9 take advantage of our Mother’s Day sale!  

Hiking Mom

Save 25% on Oboz Hiking shoes. From trail to tavern, Oboz has a shoe for you. 

Backpacking Mom

Save 25% on all Osprey Packs. Whether hiking in the mountains, hiking around town, or hiking your kids around, Osprey has a pack. 

Paddling Mom

Save 25% on all NRS products. Paddle clothing, paddle gear, and PFDs that will keep her safe and comfortable on the water. Or you can bring her outside and take her kayaking or paddle boarding with a certificate for 2 for 1 rentals (certificate can only be purchased over the phone or in store) 

Camping Mom

Save 25% on all Big Agnes products. Tents, sleeping bags, and camp furniture.   

Lifestyle Mom

Save 25% on all women’s apparel from prAna, Outdoor Research, and Ex Officio. Your clothing says more about you than you think! Outfit Mom with premium apparel that shows off her outdoors persona!

Savings are good while in-stock supplies last, so do not delay! CONTACT Us, Stop by our store in Rockford, IL or shop online for great outdoor gifts for Mom during our Mother’s Day Sale, FROM May 1 – 9.

Online Shoppers Use Promo code: MOM25 

The Paddling Film Festival has appeared in 135 cities across the world since 2006

We hosted a screening at the Prairie Street Brewhouse in 2018. We are not going to gather to enjoy the very best in paddling films this year, but you can still see the 2021 Paddling Film Festival from the comfort of your own home as it is going virtual this year! 

The 2021 Paddling Film Festival will be presented in 3 separate modules – Adventure, Culture & Adrenaline. Tickets are $15 and provides you with access to whichever module you pick for the 3-day duration, from the time you activate your virtual screening. Each module comprises multiple short films with a total duration between 1.5 – 2 hours total. Be inspired and entertained with stories created by avid outdoor enthusiasts such as: 

Is it calling? These four films will take you to some of the most beautiful places on earth and provide you with all of the inspiration you need for your next paddling trip. 

It is what brings us together! These nine films tell the stories of paddlers and all that paddling can mean to us. 

Does it drive you? These five films celebrate great rivers and oceans, life-defining moments, and people who know what it really means to be alive.  

All you need to do access the very best in paddling films is click here. Then select which module you want to enjoy, sit back, grab a beverage and snacks, and find some inspiration to get you ready for the upcoming paddling season! Please give us a call at 815-636-9066 or contact us if you have any questions about the 2021 #paddlingfilmfestival. Wishing everyone a fun, safe, and memory filled paddling season!  

When was the last time we had two months of continuous snow on the ground?

The timing and snowfall of this winter could not have been better, as our main outlet for entertainment was the outdoors. Based on the number of skis and snowshoes we sold and rented, many people have been entertained outdoors in the meantime. Now that the snow is melting and the trails are going from a serene white, to mud, and back to a splendid green, it is time to take care of the gear that brought you so much enjoyment this winter. Read below for some ski and snowshoe maintenance tips from Rocktown Adventures to keep your winter gear ready for next season!

Cross Country Ski Maintenance Tips

Many people are using waxless skis, but that is a misnomer. The “waxless” refers to the area under your foot, your kick zone, which is comprised of a fish scale type pattern. The fish scale pattern provides the traction needed to kick from ski to ski. Skis without this pattern (or without skins) need wax applied to give them that type of grip. You still need to apply glide wax on your skis, and should even apply glide wax to your fish scales, to improve glide and keep snow from building up in your kick zone. 

Now that it is time to put the skis away for the year, you want to clean the old wax off. You will need Swix Base cleaner, or a commercial product, such as Goo Gone. You will also need a scaper, fibrelene cloth and a brush.

First, scrape your skis to get rid of as much wax as possible. Reason being, you want to use as little of the base cleaner as you possibly can in order to get your skis clean – if we overload the base with a cleaning solvent, over time it can dry out your base, which will lead to future waxes not adhering to the base as well. Once done with a couple passes with the scraper, brush it out. Apply the basecleaner and clean using the Fibrelene cloth. You do not want to use a regular paper towel or cloth – fibers from these can embed into the ski base. You know the wax is gone by rubbing your ringers over the base and not feeling any material or changes in consistency of the base. If you have skins, apply a skin cleaner over your skins to remove any debris.  

The final step does have its benefits, but is more for the serious skier doing races and such. That said, take care of your gear with proper maintenance and it will take care of you. After the base is clean, put a warm temp wax such as Swix 10 on your skis and do not scrape it off. This keeps dust and debris from adhering to your base. You can skip this step if you do not have the wax and an iron. We can do a complete ski clean/wax for storage for $15. Once done, put your skis away in a safe place and get ready for the first snow next year! 

Snowshoe Maintenance Tips 

Essentially, modern snowshoes can just be stored for the season. But you want to make sure you are ready to go when the first snow hits next year, so while we are in this tweener season, now is a good time to do some minor showshoe maintenance and check for wear and tear. Last thing you want is to grab them on the first snowfall, and learn you have a cracked buckle or something like that. Here are a few things you can do to maintain your snowshoes and ensure they are in working condition when the inspiration hits to Head Out! 

First, spray them with a hose to get rid of any debris such as mud or salt. After this, make sure you dry them to prevent the metal from corroding or rusting. Once they are clean, inspect each snowshoe to ensure all buckles and straps are intact and functioning – now is the time to replace any of this. Also, check your crampons for any bending or dulled teeth. With the conditions we have around here, it is unlikely any damage occurred..but maybe you walked on concrete or dropped them a few times – it always helps to check and make sure. The last thing is to put them away for the year. While snowshoes are durable, you do not want to just toss them in the corner. Hang them up high or put them in a bag to protect them.  

Please CONTACT US or stop by our Rockford, IL location if you have any additional questions on Ski and snowshoe maintenance. With all the snow we had this season, we cannot wait for the first outing next winter! 

The changes we are Experiencing this holiday season are not fun…But adapt we will!

The holidays might be strange with change this year, as it is likely you will celebrate in a manner in which you have never done before. Nevertheless, as outdoor enthusiasts, we are used to adapting to change. Changing weather, changing forecasts, changing conditions, changing locations – the unexpected is a part of what makes the outdoors fun! This year at Rocktown Adventures, we are offering great holiday specials to help you along!

While the changes we are dealing with this year are not fun, adapt we will! There is no physical Stroll on State this year, but there will be a virtual event to bring the community together in the name of holiday spirit. There will not be an #OptOutside Hike hosted by us at Rocktown, however we will still be creative to help you Head Out on Black Friday with family and friends to enjoy the outdoors. Keep reading to learn how you can Gear Up this holiday season with our 2020 holiday specials. We wish everyone safety, happiness, and health.  

Opt Outside: November 27 

This has become a great annual tradition at Rocktown Adventures. Unfortunately, due to increased restrictions on group activities, we have decided to cancel our 2020 Opt Outside hike. But you can still enjoy the outdoors and save a little money by doing so! All you need to do is post a social media picture on November 27 doing anything outside with a small group and tag Rocktown Adventures, along with #OptOutside. Do this and voila – you’ll receive an additional 10% off your purchases at Rocktown Adventures (excludes kayaks) on Small Business Saturday, November 28-29, 2020. 

Gift Card Special: NOV. 28 – DEC. 24 

For those on your list that you just cannot decide what to get, or what size they are, or will they like it. Let them decide with a Rocktown Adventures Gift Card. This holiday season, when you buy a Rocktown Adventures Gift Card, you get a gift for yourself! From Nov 28 – Dec 24, purchase a gift card and receive $10 for yourself for every $50 you purchase for someone else! Limit of $500 gift card purchase. Gift Card Special is NOT eligible to be used towards kayak purhcases for the gift card buyer. 

Also NOV. 28 – DEC. 24: Save 20% on

• Winter Apparel  
• Cross-Country Skis & Snowshoes 
• Camping & Hiking
• Paddle Gear
• Paddle Clothing  
• + Clearance items at 30–70% off 

Use Promo Code: Holiday20

While the holidays will not be business as usual, the outdoors will be. Gear Up now so you can Head Out this winter! Remember there is no such thing as bad weather, just inadequate clothing. When going outside, it does make a difference! Check out our offerings of multi-purpose outdoor gear and lifestyle apparel from brands that excite your outdoor passions. 

Need some GIFT Ideas for the outdoor adventurist on your holiday list?

No matter the level of outdoor recreation, Rocktown Adventures has something for everyone. After all…who doesn’t like to get OUTDOORS? Here are our top 5 holiday gift ideas for the holidays:

1. Outdoor Relaxation Gifts

Eagles Nest Outfitters Double Nest Hammock

Your all-access pass to relaxation. Big enough for two and palatial for one, the DoubleNest still manages to stuff easily into its attached compression sack.

Helinox/Big Agnes Camping Furniture

The perfect packable chair to bring along to any camp, concert, picnic, or road-trip adventure.

Outdoor Research Tundra Slip on Booties

Luxurious warmth without adding weight to your pack.

2. Gifts For The Angler

Yak Attack Omega Pro Rod Holder

The last rod holder you will need. 

Neverlost Tethers

Keep your gear and tools by your side while you are on the water.

Anchor Wizard Low Profile

The Low profile Kayak Anchor Wizard makes a great accessory to any Kayak.

3. Gifts For the Winter Enthusiast

Outdoor Research Hyak Pant

Movement mirroring stretch with a fleece lined water repellent outer great for winter hiking for him and her. 

Snowshoes

Fastest growing winter outdoor activity with plenty of local areas to explore.

Kahtoola Micro Spikes

Pocket-sized traction system that allow anyone, of any age, to get out and safely enjoy winter. 

4. Apparel

prAna Men’s Tri Thermal Threads Overshirt

Next level insulation with a healthy dose of stylish inspiration. 

prAna Claus Sweater

Snuggle into a classic knit fabric that keeps the coziness but ditches the itch.

Outdoor Research Womens Ferrosi Winter Jacket

The Winter Ferrosi Jacket still has your favorite stretch, durability, and weather resistance – now it’s just packed with VerticalX™ insulation to keep you warm even when wet. 

prAna Beer Belly Journeyman T Shirt

Do you all day long thanks this lightweight, breathable, versatile blend of organic cotton and recycled poly.

5. Gifts For The Paddler

NRS Bilge Pump

Don’t take a bath in your boat! The floating NRS bilge pump can bail out your boat and bail you out of a bad situation in no time. 

Seal Line Bulkhead Dry Bags

Increase your carrying capacity with the waterproof Seal Line Bulkhead View dry bag designed to efficiently stow in boat hatches and cramped compartments. 

NRS HydroSkin Pant or Jacket

For him or her. The ultimate submersible base layer. Stretchy, comfortable neoprene material gives you just the right amount of warmth for cool days and cool water without feeling bulky or restrictive.  

If you have any questions on these or any other gift ideas, please contact us or give us a call at 815-636-9066. Also stop by our store in Rockford, IL. We are happy to help you find a great gift for the outdoor adventurist on your list! 

For the past five years, we have closed our doors on Black Friday and encouraged people to leave shopping behind for a day, while spending some quality time outside with friends and family. After a day of eating and drinking too much, we thought it would do the body good to Opt Outside – and a lot of you thought the same.   

This event has become a great annual outside tradition at Rocktown Adventures. One we look forward to each and every year. We cherish the opportunity to add a memorable outdoor experience to your Turkey Day weekend. Unfortunately, due to increased restrictions on group activities, we have decided to cancel our 2020 Opt Outside hike. However, if we are somehow able to slow the tide before November 27, we will add a hike. While Opt Outside is an outdoor event, the negative optics of gathering 30+ people in this environment are far too great to ignore.

This does not mean you cannot Opt Outside with your own small group. We encourage you to Gear Up & Head Out. In fact, we want to incentivize you to do so. All you need to do is post a social media picture on November 27 doing anything outside with a small group and tag Rocktown Adventures, along with #OptOutside. Do this and voila – you’ll receive an additional 10% off your purchases at Rocktown Adventures (excludes kayaks) on Small Business Saturday, November 28-29, 2020. Since there is no physical footprint for Stroll on State this year, plenty of parking will be available downtown for you to peruse all of the shopping opportunities available.  

To all that have decided to Opt Outside with us in the past, we thank you for helping us build a memorable holiday tradition that we look forward to continuing for many years. We wish everyone a safe, happy, and most of all, healthy holiday season! Get outside – It does the body good!   

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