Happy Paddlers

Hey Gang. Join us as we join other kayakers for the premier Lake Erie kayaking event of 2025!

We'll be joining hundreds of other kayakers for Day Paddling, visiting the sites and there are OPTIONS FOR CROSSING LAKE ERIE if weather turns sour in either direction. This will be year number 14 celebrating the South Bass Island Kayak Rendezvous as the premier kayaking gathering on Lake Erie. Join more than 100 kayakers from the tri-state area and beyond for a weekend of paddling, camping, socializing and exploring the islands located in the western basin of Lake Erie. For beginners there are paddling opportunities within the Put-in-Bay Harbor, for intermediate paddlers, there are miles of island coastline to paddle and for experienced paddlers there are dozens of open water crossings between islands to explore.

For any questions, call (614) 361-3106 ask for Michael / Kayaking.

Reserve Campground at South Bass Island State Park
http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/southbassisland

Advanced Kayakers ---> Encouraged to make the Lake Crossing & visit other islands
Intermediate Kayakers ---> Encouraged to make the Lake Crossing weather permitting. Otherwise ferry your kayak. Then explore all around the Island's shore!
Beginner Kayakers ----> Ferry your kayak and enjoy paddling all there is to see in Put-In-Bay Harbor! Many inland attractions including bars.

Must Click this Link --> http://www.sbikayakrendezvous.com/
[Website transcript]
June 11-13, 2021 South Bass Island: This will be year number 16 (2.0), (our 2020 event was cancelled due to CV-19) in celebrating, the South Bass Island Kayak Rendezvous as the premier kayaking gathering on Lake Erie. Join more than 100 kayakers from the tri-state area and beyond for a weekend of paddling, camping, socializing and exploring the islands located in the western basin of Lake Erie.

Each year on the second weekend after Memorial Day, paddlers have descended upon the South Bass Island State Park for this annual gathering. This paddler organized event, brings kayakers together for a fun weekend. Safety is our utmost concern and paddlers are encouraged to plan their own water based activities, but join our land based social functions. There are countless paddling opportunities among the islands of the Western Basin. For beginners there are paddling opportunities within the Put-in-Bay Harbor, for intermediate paddlers, there are miles of island coastline to paddle and for experienced paddlers there are dozens of open water crossings between islands to explore. See our paddling page for destination ideas for your weekend.

South Bass Island is a perfect paddling location for kayakers who want to rough it at the State Park or for those who like to be close to civilization. The amenities at the State Park are excellent, the views from the cliff-side campsites are amazing, and downtown Put-in-Bay is a close walk or shuttle drive.

Paddlers can make the crossing from the mainland or they can take the Miller Ferry. If the weather turns, the Miller Ferry is an excellent safety gap for the return trip to the mainland.

Most of all, come, paddle, socialize and experience the wonderful gem we call the Erie Islands!

Special Guest for 2020- TBD: Announcement coming soon! We've had some awesome speakers over the years, stay tuned for great news!]

Safety level higher at this event on Lake Erie Rolling knowledge encouraged.

• Must have own kayak for this event with skirt.
• Reminder PFD is needed for this open water outing.
• Return back whenever you like but must travel in groups no less than 2. This event is for Intermediate Skill level at a minimum. As always, Area Weather (https://weather.com/weather/tenday/l/43456:4:US)
  KayakOhio! isn't responsible for lost items at the event.

Must Click this Link --> http://www.sbikayakrendezvous.com/

Trapper John's Livery was sold in 2024. Waiting on news of the new owner and opening date, rates & schedules.

Let's meetup to kayak or canoe Big Darby Creek. We'll meet ADJACENT TO Trapper John's canoe/kayak livery AT BOAT RAMP ACROSS THE ROAD. We'll canoe or kayak what HAD BEEN TJ'S LOWER TRIP then arrange OUR OWN GROUP SHUTTLES ON RETURN.

Event attendees limit is set at 6; message me you are willing to take attendance / waivers as a co-host and total event limit can be increased. This is a pay your own way event. River levels tend to be challenging in April and May but manageable at all skill levels during July. Should be a blast but always dress accordingly.

*** All events are being listed with a skill Level minimum. High athletic and agility level is encouraged also & is age/ weight ratio dependent.
Its imperative for participants to be forthcoming about their skills and ability levels.
***

** Change Notice: Hey Guys,
ALL EVENTS HAVE TO BE PREPAID ONLY, yeah I know.
If you have challenges with a member, PM me.
.... the event!

** Unattended: I won't be organizing or hosting this event. Another member who steps up will host this event. For any questions, text or message (614) 361-3106 and mention Michael / Kayaking and which event.

** If RSVP, 7-10 days prior to event date, COMMENT HERE --> BELOW if Renting or Shuttle Only. Upper may or may not be available depending on water flow/ conditions.

** RSVP to mark YES / Going only. If cannot make this event later, let us know well in advance.

** New to group paddles and Meetup Group paddles? PFD / aka lifejacket is to be worn at all times while on the water. No exceptions.

Group is undertaking project to CLEAN UP Columbus Waterways including Scioto, Olentangy, Big Walnut, Big Darby & more. Donations will be used to present check to local Parks and Recreation for acquiring equipment to install & service. Initiative has growing support among Metroparks, FLOW, Gahanna Parks & Rec, ODNR among others. $5 encouraged / $40 for T-Shirt.

The float is similar to what WAS offered at TJ's so More details regarding the float can be found at http://www.trapperjohnscanoeing.com/

In the spring and summer after a good rain, the flow on the upper trip offers exciting rapid sections and technical turns for more experienced paddlers. ** Be prepared to ACKNOLEDGE YOUR FITNESS LEVEL and level of paddling experience. ALL OHIO CREEKS AND STREAMS are relatively easy compared to hilly Pennsylvania, WV and North Carolina Streams.

The lower trip is often more exciting Trapper John's will shuttle you up river ~6 miles in shuttle vans. We will float back down river to Trapper John's livery pay/launch area. Once back at Trapper Johns, we'll break for lunch at end of Sampler Trip then continue for the entire Lower Trip.

The full list of pricing is shown here:
https://www.trapperjohnscanoeing.com/copy-of-rules-helpful-hints

All renters must have a valid ID and will be required to leave it as a deposit per boat rented. No Alcohol permitted.

** Water Levels:
https://waterdata.usgs.gov/oh/nwis/rt
Big Darby at Darbydale: https://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?03230500

This is an attend at your own risk event! If you rsvp to this event you are accepting personal responsibility for yourself. All those attending/renting must fill out and sign the proper release form at the time of rental.

Event Gathering will be at either of Confluence Restaurant or Scioto Audubon Park, water and weather conditions depending. If water too high, then cancelled but otherwise is absolutely on. Even some of the construction on I-70/I-71 split bridges didn't stop paddling in recent years!

A) What's Happening
Arrive prior to 4 for best experience per street closures. We'll meet at the easy parking spot is Confluence Restaurant with parking in the Confluence parking lot as in prior years. Bring blanket, cards and any board games etc & just hanging out beforehand. Confluence parking is $20 and may fill up anytime between 4 and 8pm. Launch site under bridge (going toward the restaurant) on the Scioto side.

We'll put kayaks on sand bar to watch fireworks (water level permitting). Great place to picnic and just hang out with paddlers beforehand. Parking is first come, first serve typically. One luxury option is the Dinner Buffet for $50 (reserved seat) + only $5 parking. Boat House Parking has been $20 in past but handled discretionary / varied from prepay to pay at the entrance only.
https://www.boathouserestaurantoh.com/

Group size will be limited to packs of no more than 8; 6 if few others step up as Event Hosts. [Job of Event Hosts is to acknowledge names and offer no safety training, no assurances of lifeguard skill or water rescue.]

B). Paddle Safety Notices on Scioto near Confluence
Paddle Difficulty Warning: There's a strong current near near North Bank Park at the Railroad Bridge on Scioto. ONLY STRONG KAYAKERS SHOULD TRY THIS; otherwise portage. If heavy rains just before 4th of July, that'll make current even more difficult.

SCIOTO RIVER LEVELS -
https://waterdata.usgs.gov/oh/nwis/uv?site_no=03227500

C: Finding the Parking Spot
LOCATION, LOCATION the Kayakers' Way:
https://www.gps-coordinates.net/driving-directions
Enter in the following latitude, longitude then click 'Set as Destination'
Latitude/ Longitude 39.9662191, -83.0176035

D: Release of Liability
The section below is a basic release of liability. Attendees will be asked to sign a basic release of liability as is also typical being kayaking is an at risk sport. Attendees are required to wear a PFD / life vest and anyone refusing to wear a PFD will be banned from this meetup group following the event. By RSVP to this event, you are agreeing to release this meetup group and any others attending from liability for your own safety and your belongings.

{AWRL}
ACCIDENT WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY (AWRL) By reading this or participating in an event, I certify that I am physically fit and have sufficiently prepared for participation in this event. I acknowledge that this athletic event carries with it the potential for death, serious injury and property loss. The risks include, but are not limited to those caused by terrain, facilities, temperature, weather, condition of athletes, lack of hydration, equipment, vehicular traffic, and actions of other people including, but not limited to, event participants. I hereby assume all of the risks of participating in this MEETUP.COM event.
On consideration of my interest and permitting me to participate in this event, I hereby take action for myself and my executors to (A) Waive, Release and Discharge from any and all liability for my death, disability, personal injury or property damage that may occur to me during the event, or while traveling to and from this event, the following:
Michael McKinley and The Leadership Team; (B) Indemnify and Hold
Harmless Michael McKinley and The Leadership Team from any and all liabilities or claims made by other individuals as a result of any of my actions during this event.
I hereby consent to receive medical treatment which may be deemed advisable in the event of injury, accident and /or illness during events.
I acknowledge that this Accident Waiver and Release of Liability form will be used by the organizers of the event in which I participate and that it will govern my actions and responsibilities at said events. It is further agreed that this waiver, release and assumption of risk is to be binding on my heirs and assigns. This AWRL shall be construed broadly to provide a release and waiver to the maximum
extent permissible under applicable law. By joining this group, and electing to attend an event, I affirm that I have read and understand the AWRL.

E) Signing up:
Kayaking is an at-risk event so all attendees must sign their OWN INDIVIDUAL WAIVER and as such sign up as themselves. For a couple; both of you must join the group and signup for each event without a +1, +2, etc.

F) Cost
A $5.00 non-refundable fee has been added to this event to offset group costs. This group is helping to facilitate clean rivers and lakes through self-service bag stations.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/dogs-love-rivers?

G) Group Kayaking
Participants who attend are agreeing to the trip itinerary and show up with team attitude; bringing water & skirt snacks to share is encouraged. After 3 attended events, members can suggest or host an event.
https://paddling.com/learn/10-tips-for-kayaking-with-a-group

If on the waiting list, can SIGN UP as CO-HOST to join us!

[** Info here is for 2025, based on 2023 info**]
Join Adventure Crew on Saturday, August 3 for Ohio River Paddlefest 2024. Registration is now open — register by April 30 for the best deal — and we’ll see you on the river!

— Event Date will be updated when officially announced; 1st or 2nd Saturday August.

https://www.ohioriverpaddlefest.org/

*** All events are being listed with a skill Level minimum. High athletic and agility level is encouraged also & is age/ weight ratio dependent.
Its imperative for participants to be forthcoming about their skills and ability levels.
***

** Change Notice: Hey Guys,
ALL EVENTS HAVE TO BE PREPAID ONLY, yeah I know. If you have issues with a member during an event, PM me here.

Kayak Rentals:
Rental boats are available for both Paddlefest routes and include paddle(s) and life vests. (Please note: Your registration does NOT automatically include a rental boat.) Rental boat quantities are limited. Nine mile paddlers must claim their rentals by 8 a.m. Saturday morning. Unclaimed boats will be issued to waiting paddlers.
https://www.ohioriverpaddlefest.org/rental-boats

### RENTAL RATES

Single kayak — $40, seats one

Paddlefest is a full week of fun - check out the Paddlefest website (ohioriverpaddlefest.org) for more details about all the exciting components of our weekend of celebration.
Just some tips for this weekend's Paddlefest. Registering here does not get you into the Paddlefest. You must register on their website. All details are handled there. Rules and regulations are handled through them. This is their event. This Meetup is about our group joining an awesome outing on the Ohio River.

Be at ease and not in a hurry before and after this event. Allow their volunteers to guide you through the process. Remember they are moving 2000 people and 1500 boats. They do a great job at this giant task. Enjoy the bands, food trucks, vendors, etc once off the water.

If you are camping Friday on site, it also requires registration with Paddlefest, not thru Meetup.

Here's FYI information about an awesome event just 2 hours away.
Need to Rent a Kayak?
Rentals ARE available for this outing Check availability & Reserve while supplies last

Reminders of safety stuff you already know

• Reminder PFD is needed for this open water outing.
• Return back whenever you like but consider traveling in 1+ groups. The more the merrier usually holds true.

Craving for a large Kayaking event? This is just what you're wanting to do. Ohio River Paddlefest Official Site

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY. . .
Warning: There are inherent and significant elements of risk involved in activities associated with paddle sports including but not limited to kayaks and canoes (referred to herein as “activity”) and the equipment there with.

Acknowledgment of Risks; I realize that changing water flow, water current, wind and weather conditions, submerged objects, the presence of other watercraft, the speed at which I travel, stability characteristics of watercraft, certain foreseen and unforeseen hazards or events that can contribute to the unpredictability of the activity, that certain risks associated with this activity including but not limited to overturning, flipping over, collision and sinking can result in getting wet, minor injuries, major injuries, exposure to the elements, drowning, damage to, or loss of personal property. I further understand that by wearing a US Coast Guard approved personal floatation device is a basic safety precaution, that I might suffer from accidents in remote places where medical attention and/or facilities may not be readily available, and that I should ask about other potential hazards and recommended precautions and procedures. I further understand and realize that participation in the activity whether alone or with a group can result in personal injury, accidents, illness including but not limited to hypothermia, puncture wounds, broken bones, sprains, bruises, cuts and scrapes, insect bites, head injuries, paralysis, dismemberment or death.

Express Assumption of Risk and Responsibility; In recognition of the risks of the activity which I will engage in, I confirm that I am physically and mentally capable of participating in the activity and using the equipment. I participate willingly and voluntarily and I assume full responsibility for damage or to loss of personal property as a result of any accident that may occur.

Release; in consideration of services and/or property provided, I do hereby release the Organizer(s) of Ohio Kayaking Club, Michael McKinley and anyone involved with this Meetup group from all liability and waive any claim for damage arising from any cause whatsoever, except that which is a result of gross negligence.

Thank You!