Best Kayaking Spots Near Cincinnati

Mara Oakes
Little Miami River

A tributary of the Ohio River, the Little Miami River is a popular option for canoeing and kayaking. It is classified as a National Scenic River. The Little Miami Scenic Trail winds along the river. There is lots to do (camping, hiking, etc.) even if some members of your group are not kayak or canoe fans.

Numerous canoe rental outlets are located along the Little Miami River. Most are clearly marked with large signs visible from the road. One option is Little Miami Canoe Rental, which is located about ten minutes away from the King's Island amusement park. Loveland Canoe and Kayak is another possibility. It is located in Loveland, Ohio. This rental canoe and kayak shop requires that children must be at least three years old and thirty pounds to join a boat trip.

When visiting the Little Miami River or any other outdoor setting, be vigilant about keeping litter contained and disposed of appropriately. Litter laws are strictly enforced, contributing to the area's National Scenic River status. There are only 19 rivers across America that have received this recognition. Keep in mind that much of the river frontage at Little Miami is privately owned.

The Ohio River

The Ohio River is another popular route for canoes and kayaks. The massive Ohio river is the largest tributary of the Mississippi River.

The Ohio River Way is a non-profit organization which works to protect and promote the Ohio River. It provides lots of useful information about kayak and canoe recreation on the Ohio River. (A link to the Ohio River Way website is included at the end of this article.)

The Ohio River Way Paddlefest is an annual summer festival. It draws around 1,800 padllers each year and is the largest on-water canoe and kayak festival in the Midwest. It includes races, kids events, an expo event and even live music. You can register for this festival by using the link below.

For a real glimpse of what it's like to glide down an Ohio river, check out some of the videos on You Tube. There, you can find footage of canoe and kayak rides down the Little Miami River and the Ohio Rivers.

Some tips will help to ensure that your Cincinnati area canoe or kayak trip is a good experience. Make safety a priority. Those with little experience should consult the advice of the various canoe and kayak guides in the area. They can suggest routes and helpful tips. Of course, they can also provide kayaks, life jackets and other safety equipment.

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  • Sharon2/3/2011

    I go to Green Acres Canoe & Kayak Rental on the Whitewater River. There aren't any over lapping canoe rentals on that section of river!

  • Sharon Lutz2/3/2011

    The Whitewater River is my favorite place to go kayaking. According to the Ohio EPA it has an exceptional water quality status with 100% attainment of aquatic life. Only 8.26 miles actually flow thru the state of Ohio. It is Ohio's best kept secret!

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