DO I NEED TO MAKE RESERVATIONS TO CAMP?
Yes, you must make reservations to camp. We have a limited number of campsites available and they are in high demand in the summer months.
IS THERE A MINIMUM NUMBER OF NIGHTS NEEDED TO SECURE A CAMPSITE?
On weekends there is a two night minimum, with three nights required on holiday weekends. During the week (Sunday through Thursday) a site can be reserved for one night.
DO I NEED TO MAKE RESERVATION TO STAY IN A CAMPING CABIN?
Yes, you do need to make a reservation to stay in a camping cabin. We have only four camping cabins and they are in high demand in the summer months.
IS THERE A MINIMUM NUMBER OF NIGHTS NEEDED TO SECURE A CAMPING CABIN?
On weekends there is a two night minimum, with three nights required on holiday weekends. During the week (Sunday through Thursday) a cabin can be reserved for one night.
CAN I BRING ALCOHOL?
Alcohol is permitted as long as use follows all State of Ohio guidelines for use.
IS FIREWOOD AVAILABLE?
Firewood is available in the canoe livery shop.
CAN I BRING MY PET? (cat, dog, iguana, …)
Pets are permitted on the property and on canoe rides. Pets must be leashed or contained in some way while in public areas and should be friendly to other pets and people. There are two pet friendly cabins available.
How does this work? I would like to go on a canoe trip-now what?
- We offer canoe and kayak trips on the Hocking River. Our canoes are designed for two people. We have two styles of kayaks available-single kayaks for one person or our tandem kayaks that hold two people.
- You will find us at 12789 State Route 664 S, Logan, Ohio. You will turn in near Arby’s and continue on down the driveway. Once you pass our sign, you will see the first of our three parking lots on your left. There is another parking lot on your right in front of our office. Our third, and biggest parking lot, is on down the hill. Cross the railroad tracks, turn left, and follow the drive on back to the lot.
- Head on into our office where our friendly office staff will assist you in getting ready for your trip. This is where you will check in for a reservation or sign up for a river trip. At this time, we can help determine which trip as well as what type of boats will be best for you and your group. We will gladly check your keys for you so you don’t have to worry about them getting wet or lost on the river.
- Gather your life jacket and paddle from our gear shack. From here, you will just wait on our porch for one of our drivers to pick you up to take you up river where you will begin your trip.
- One of our knowledgeable drivers will load you up in either a van or a bus. On your trip to the put-in spot, our drivers will give you a trip briefing, telling you some key points, land marks, ending point, etc as well as answering any questions you may have. Most of our staff has worked here for years and would be more than happy to share their tips for a fun trip.
- Our staff will help you into your boat and give you a push in. You will follow the flow of the river to make your way back to the livery where your vehicle is parked. Along the way there are half mile markers located along the right side of the river.
- Once you reach the end of your river trip, our staff will be there to assist you getting out of your boat. We will take care of your boat while you return your life jacket and paddles. (We give them all a scrub before someone else uses them. 😊)
- If you had a great time with us or one of our staff deserves a shout out, we’d love it if you would leave us a Google review. Positive reviews mean an awful lot to small businesses like ours. We work very hard to provide the best experience for our customers!
Is this river trip guided?
Our section of the Hocking River is ideal for beginners, featuring no rapids or tricky navigation. Our trips are self-guided; we’ll transport you upriver for either 5 or 7 miles, and you’ll paddle back to the livery where your vehicle is parked. Simply follow the flow of the river to return to your starting point.
Do I need a reservation?
A reservation isn’t required as we take walk-ins every day. We do highly recommend a reservation for a Saturday kayak trip. Saturdays are our busiest day and kayaks do tend to be rented rather quickly. We also do require a reservation for our 7-mile trip on Saturdays from Memorial Day weekend thru Labor Day weekend.
What if I have never paddled a canoe or kayak before?
No worries! This is the perfect place to learn. The water is calm and the current is slow, so you don’t need to be a pro to navigate your way around. We want you to come back with a smile on your face. We’ll gladly show you the ropes and give you any tips you might need so that your maiden voyage is a successful one. Our staff is always happy to help!
Do you have any age requirements for going on river trips?
Participants must be at least 3 years old to go on the river—no exceptions. Please note that age requirements may increase based on river conditions, water levels, and experience. Safety is our top priority, and we reserve the right to adjust restrictions as needed to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for all guests.
How many people can go in a canoe?
Our canoes are designed with two seats. If a third person joins, they will be seated in the middle on a seat pad, which is typically best for children.
- Trip A: One adult or 1-2 small children can usually ride in the middle.
- Trip B: Only one child under 12 may ride in the middle.
Please note: Water levels may occasionally restrict adding a third person to the canoe. Be sure to check with us for the latest guidelines before your trip!
Can my child go in my kayak with me?
We offer two styles of kayaks to suit your adventure:
- Single Kayaks: Designed for one paddler, these kayaks accommodate only one person.
- Tandem Kayaks: Built for two paddlers, these are a great option for pairing up. Children ages 3 and up are welcome to ride with an adult.
For younger paddlers, we also offer a child-friendly kayak that is slightly shorter for easier handling. It includes a built-in tow rope, allowing for assistance if needed during the trip.
Are life jackets and paddles included?
Yes, life jackets and paddles are included with your rental. If you prefer to bring your own life jacket, it must be Coast Guard certified. Simply show it to one of our office staff when you arrive.
Can I bring my own life jacket?
We welcome guests to bring their own life jackets. Upon check-in for your river trip, our office staff will need to verify that your life jacket is Coast Guard certified.
Can we take a raft?
Rafting is available only when river levels are high enough to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. We use large, whitewater-style rafts for an exciting ride on the water.
When water levels are too low, we only offer canoe and kayak rentals. Because rafting depends on river conditions, reservations cannot be made in advance. Be sure to check with us on the day of your visit for availability!
How deep is the river?
The Hocking River is naturally a fairly shallow river. The water depth can range from just a few inches to over 12 feet in spots. Of course, water levels vary based on time of year, rain, etc.
Will we see any wildlife?
Many of our customers love observing wildlife during their river trip. You may commonly spot fish, turtles, snakes, deer, river otters, mink, beavers, osprey, and eagles. Popular fish in the Hocking River include smallmouth bass, rock bass, and catfish. Keep in mind that wildlife sightings are less frequent when the river is busier.
Are dogs allowed to go on river trips?
We’re thrilled to welcome pets of all kinds—not just dogs—to join you on your river adventure!
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone:
- Keep your pet on a leash at all times while at our facility.
- Clean up after them as needed.
- Never tie your pet to your boat.
Enjoy your time on the river with your furry, scaly, or feathered friends!
Can I bring my fishing pole?
Guests are welcome to bring their fishing poles for a relaxing day on the river. Please remember that since it is a public waterway, a valid fishing license is required. We do not allow fishing from tubes or rafts.
Can we bring a cooler?
Guests are welcome to bring coolers along on river trips for drinks, snacks, or even a picnic lunch. However, please note that Styrofoam coolers and glass bottles are not permitted. While we don't check coolers, remember that alcohol is prohibited while operating a watercraft on all Ohio waterways.
Can we still go out in the rain?
Our river trips still go out in the rain. We will not send trips out if there is lightning.
Will we have to get out of our boat?
Along your trip, you'll find plenty of gravel and sand bars or islands where you're welcome to stop and take a break. If river levels are low, you might need to step out of your boat to guide it through shallow spots. If you have any questions about the river levels, just ask—we're happy to help!
What do I need to know about a group discount?
We offer group discounts for parties of 12 or more people using at least 6 canoes. While kayaks are not included in the discount, they can still be added to your reservation.
Note: Children 12 and under who sit in the middle of a canoe will be charged the regular extra child rate rather than the group rate.
Can I bring my own canoe or kayak?
Yes! We offer personal boat transport services for 5-mile and 7-mile trips on the Hocking River. Let us handle the logistics so you can enjoy your paddle!
Can I use your put-in to launch my own boat?
We offer transportation for your personal canoe or kayak, but we generally do not transport inflatable tubes or rafts due to our transportation methods. Our put-in locations are private properties with limited space, so we can only accommodate our own buses, trucks, and trailers.
What methods of payment do you take?
We take multiple methods of payment-cash, credit cards, and touch pay. Bartering isn’t out of the question either. 😉
Why is your staff so friendly and happy?
Our team is genuinely passionate about what they do. Many of our staff members have been with us for years, and they take great pride in ensuring that every customer has an exceptional experience.
