Allegheny River Kayak Camping Trip (30 miles)

The Allegheny River is a federally designated National Wild & Scenic River, known for its abundant wildlife, quiet backwaters, and many forested, uninhabited islands perfect for primitive camping. This section flows through the Allegheny National Forest and offers some of the most scenic multi-day paddling in the Northeast.

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📍 Meeting / Take-Out Location (Saturday, 9/27, 8:00 AM):
Tionesta Boat Launch
Elm St, Tionesta, PA 16353
We will meet here at 8:00 AM on Saturday, 9/27 to set up the shuttle.

🚤 Launch Location:
Buckaloons Boat Ramp
181 National Forge Rd, Irvine, PA 16329
[Please note that there is a parking and launch fee of $5.00]

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Itinerary
Friday 9/26 (Optional):
Arrive early and camp at Cornplanter State Forest, close to the river, for those who want a relaxed start.

Saturday 9/27:

• Shuttle cars in the morning.
• Paddle about 18 miles downstream from Buckaloons to a secluded, undeveloped island for primitive camping. Expect bald eagle sightings, great blue herons, and perhaps river otters along the way.
• Evening: campfire on the island, under the stars.

Sunday 9/28:

• Paddle about 12 miles to Tionesta Boat Launch.
• After take-out, join us for a hamburger cookout lunch at the Tionesta Boat Launch before heading home.

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Highlights

• Paddle through one of America’s original National Wild & Scenic Rivers
• Remote camping on a quiet island in the Allegheny River
• Frequent wildlife sightings (eagles, osprey, herons, beavers, deer)
• Early fall foliage beginning to show in the Allegheny National Forest

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Requirements

• Solid kayaking skills: able to paddle 3+ mph on flat water
• Kayak with valid registration in OH or PA, at least 12 feet long for efficiency and stability
• Primitive camping experience required (no facilities on the island)
• Prepared for overnight temperatures in the low 40s
• Bring all camping gear, water, and meals—pack light, waterproof, and self-sufficient

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Important Notes

• This is a peer trip, not a guided service. By joining, you take full responsibility for your own safety.
• Paddlers should be comfortable with river currents, navigation, and self-rescue.
• Shuttle coordination will be required—please be ready to help with vehicles.
• Weather-dependent—trip may be postponed if river levels are too high or conditions unsafe.

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Signup Info
Upon signing up, please send me a short description of:

1. Your most strenuous kayaking trip (distance, time taken, speed, etc.), and
2. Your recent camping experience.

This will help ensure everyone is well-prepared and the group is a good fit for the trip.

This event is cross-listed. You only need sign up once.

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🗺️ Maps & River Guide:
Allegheny River Water Trail Map
👉 PFBC Map PDF