Paddle Board Destinations in Ohio: Scenic Rivers, Quiet Lakes & Local Favorites
Ohio may be famous for football, aviation pioneers, and rock 'n' roll, but it’s also home to hundreds of creeks, rivers, lakes, and ponds perfect for stand-up paddleboarding. From tranquil nature preserves to scenic river corridors and peaceful reservoirs, the Buckeye State offers a wide range of SUP experiences for every skill level. Whether you're looking for a relaxing float or a fishing adventure, Ohio’s waterways are waiting to be explored.
Big Darby Creek
- Location: Franklin County, Ohio
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: River
- Launch Points: Prairie Oaks Upper Darby SUP, Beaver Lake takeout
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, nature preserve access
- Best Season: Spring to Fall
Description: A designated National Scenic River, Big Darby Creek offers a tranquil float through wetlands and streamside forests. Paddle past turtles, birds, and beaver cuttings while navigating gentle rapids and winding turns. SUP rentals available from Windrose Outdoors.
Hocking River
- Location: Hocking Hills, South-Central Ohio
- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Water Type: River
- Launch Points: Crockett’s Run to Hocking Hills Canoe Livery
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, sandbars, rentals
- Best Season: Summer
Description: A scenic 5-mile paddle through tree-lined banks and open fields. Ideal for beginners, with opportunities to picnic on sandbars and explore the surrounding attractions. Rent inflatable SUPs at Logan Marina.
Clendening Lake
- Location: Muskingum Watershed, Eastern Ohio
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Clendening Marina shoreline
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, campground, lodging
- Best Season: Fall
Description: A peaceful 1,800-acre lake with 43 miles of undeveloped shoreline. Great for SUP fishing and long-distance paddling. Fall foliage adds a spectacular backdrop. Marina rents kayaks; bring your own SUP.
Little Miami River
- Location: Southwestern Ohio
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: River
- Launch Points: State Route 235 Bridge
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, wildlife preserve access
- Best Season: Summer
Description: Ohio’s first designated scenic river, the Little Miami offers Class I rapids and lush surroundings. Paddle past sycamores, herons, and Cedar Waxwings. SUP rentals available at Adventures on the Great Miami.
AEP ReCreation Land Lakes
- Location: Southeastern Ohio
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediate
- Water Type: Lake and Pond
- Launch Points: Multiple access points across ReCreation Land
- Amenities: Parking, restrooms, fishing access, rentals
- Best Season: Spring to Fall
Description: A 60,000-acre landscape with over 350 stocked lakes and ponds. Ideal for SUP fishing and nature paddling. Rich in bass, bluegill, and catfish. Rentals available from Killinit Kayaks.
Summary of Paddle Board Locations in Ohio
Ohio offers a diverse range of paddle board destinations. Beginners can enjoy calm waters at Hocking River and AEP Lakes, while intermediate paddlers will love the scenic routes of Big Darby Creek and Little Miami River. Clendening Lake provides a peaceful retreat for SUP fishing, especially in the fall. With abundant launch points, seasonal amenities, and natural beauty, Ohio is a paddle boarder’s paradise in the heart of the Midwest.