Ohio is filled with amazing lakes, rivers, and other ponds that you can explore by kayak. Home to some of the best kayaking in the US, don’t miss your chance to see where you can launch and be outside in Ohio on the water.
Kayaking is an exciting sport where you can take in scenic views while traversing down the water — there are few places better than Ohio for exploring the water by kayak! Planning your trip is most important before you go kayaking to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable time. Always be aware of local hazards and keep safety tips in mind when planning a kayaking trip.
If you’re ready to embark on a paddling adventure, here are some awesome places you can go kayaking in Ohio.
1. Portage Lake
Cruise through with your kayak and take an adventure on Portage Lakes. Located in the Portage State Park, this lake comprises eight other lakes and covers an area of 2,034 acres. There is an array of channels for you and your friends to explore. Views of unspoiled wildlife and local lakefront homes make kayaking on this lake unique, a perfect trip you will remember forever.
2. Hocking River
Located in the southeastern part of Ohio is the beautiful Hocking River. Stretching through Fairfield, Athens, and Hocking counties. Enjoy breathtaking scenes while kayaking along this majestic river and the other great kayaking spots in Hocking Hills.
It is one of the most popular destinations to kayak in Ohio, as an individual or a day out with the whole family. There are many launch sites to choose from to start your adventure on the length of the river. If you are planning to spend all day on the river, there are multiple campsites to choose from. You can even hike to explore Rockbridge, a natural bridge created by erosion in the surrounding environment.
To fully enjoy your time on Hocking River and the greater Hocking Hills State Park, I highly recommend you book a place to stay in Hocking Hills to give yourself at least once night to explore.
3. Cuyahoga River
Open for the public but recommended for more experienced paddlers, the Cuyahoga River is located in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and is an incredible 100 miles long. The park recently underwent renovation, which included sites used for recreation and educational purposes. Called the Boston Shore Visitor Center, Red Lock, Station Road Bridge Trailhead, and new access points for paddlers.
If you are in Summit County, check out Cuyahoga Falls Burning River Adventures. They offer tours with knowledgeable guides, also giving kayak rental services.
4. Hinckley Lake
Located in the Hinckley Reservation in Medina County, this 90-acre lake is an attractive destination for paddlers and fishermen. Guests make annual migrations to the reservation to take part in all sorts of outdoor activities. Organized boating events are held on the lake for all ages.
On site is the Hinckley Lake Boathouse, a company that offers rentals of kayaks, canoes, and paddle sports equipment to the parks. Also, pontoons and motorized boats. There is a public launch ramp available if you decide to bring your own vessel.
5. Mohican River
Dubbed “Ohio’s Canoe Capital”, the 28-mile-long Mohican River has four main water access points and is found in Loudonville between Columbus and Cleveland. This destination is a must-see, as it snakes through the Mohican State Park, one of the most awe-inspiring places in the city. The Mohican River is easy to navigate, giving you time to soak in the natural surroundings as you paddle down its tranquil waters.
There are other amenities to enjoy while visiting the Mohican River, such as camping sites and cabins for lodging accommodations. You can also take part in hiking, ziplining, fishing, and many other outdoor activities.
There are plenty of dependable livery services to choose from, such as Mohican Adventures, Mohican Wilderness, and Loudonville Canoe Livery. These well-known companies can help you plan and experience a great day or weekend out.
6. Lake Erie
Go for a kayak trip on one of the famed Great Lakes. Kayaking on Lake Erie gives you an opportunity to take in the breathtaking and serene beauty that is all around you.
On your quest, paddle around an assortment of bays and alcoves. Gaze upon the abundance of wildlife in their natural habitat. One thing to take into consideration while planning a trip to Lake Erie is the weather. It’s an important factor as the conditions can change quickly, making the water shaky and dangerous to be in.
Launch from public areas and indulge in the views of the Marblehead area. Take time to see and explore the historic sites around you, such as the Marblehead Lighthouse, Cedar Point, and Kelly’s Island. Those sites offer great outdoor recreation activities and wildlife to view.
If that’s not enough to amaze you, Lake Erie boasts ideal sandy beaches on which to enjoy a picnic or relax. What else could beat kayaking on Lake Erie?
7. Little Miami River
The Little Miami River is the ideal place to go paddling in southwestern Ohio. Located in Cincinnati, this massive river runs through five counties and gives you 111 miles of water to explore. A recommended launching site in the area is near Fort Ancient, where you can take off on the water into the beautiful valley.
Morgan’s Canoe Livery is a great place to rent watercraft for your adventure. They also offer other services and packages, such as picnicking, overnight camping, and other amenities.
8. Big Darby Creek
Another one of the many places to enjoy a kayaking trip in the city, is the Big Darby Creek in central Ohio. Indulge yourself in the deep diversity of wildlife when paddling through the Battelle-Darby Metro Park and enjoying the scenes along this National Scenic River.
A few minutes away in Grove City is a reputable livery service named Trapper Johns. This business can assist you with equipment rentals. In addition, there are also various trips available that can be taken on the Big and Little Darby Creeks. For thrill seekers, there is also a Moonlight Paddle Experience.
Experience the Magic of Kayaking in Ohio
Ohio has various places to partake in kayaking and other activities. When on the water, remember to adhere to local boating laws and responsibilities. Also, keep in mind some paddling hazards; being knowledgeable and aware of these hazards can save your life. Enjoy your trip on the water!
Looking for other nearby kayaking spots? Don’t miss these gems in the neighboring states of Pennsylvania and West Virginia.