Where to Paddle
Paddlers can access the Great Miami River, Little Miami River, Ohio River and Great Parks' lakes from kayak launches situated at destinations around the region.
Paddling
Paddling
Hit The Water!
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Miami Whitewater Forest ALERT
The Miami Whitewater Forest Disc Golf Course will be temporarily closed due to construction of the newly designed 18-hole Disc Golf Course. The course will re-open in the early Fall of 2025.
Miami Whitewater Forest
As the largest park, Miami Whitewater Forest offers everything from scenic trails to stand-up paddleboarding, to golf and camping.
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Sharon Woods ALERT
Ongoing: Due to construction of the Sharon Lake draining and dredging project, park facilities will close beginning April 1, 2024: Sharon Lake, including the fishing dock and canoe/kayak launch, Boathouse, Shared-Use Trail around the lake, Lakeside Lodge reservable shelter & adjacent parking lot on Kemper Road and the Upper Gorge parking lot near Kreis Dam.
Sharon Woods
Inspired by established county park systems, former Cincinnati Mayor Murray Seasongood led the movement for Great Parks' founding in 1930, then known as the Hamilton County Park Board. Plans to acquire large tracts of land soon followed, and by 1932, Sharon Woods opened to the public as Great Parks' first official destination. Boasting a rich geological history and wide-ranging recreational opportunities, it remains a generational fixture in the lives of Greater Cincinnatians.
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Winton Woods ALERT
Aug. 25 - Sept. 25: Lakeview Drive will be closed for a culvert replacement project near the Locust Dell area.
Winton Woods
With trails, fishing, horseback riding, golfing, camping, picnic areas and playgrounds, Winton Woods has something for guests of all ages, abilities and interests.
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Shawnee Lookout ALERT
Due to work for the Shawnee Lookout Stream Restoration project, the former golf cart paths will be closed beginning March 25th. Eagle’s Landing parking lot will remain open. Park roads and other trails will not be affected.
Shawnee Lookout
Shawnee Lookout is a beloved hilltop retreat known for its deep ties to regional history and Native American heritage. With sweeping views of the Ohio River Valley and remnants of the past scattered throughout its landscape, Shawnee Lookout is a place for guests to explore scenic paths, roam open green spaces and connect with stories that stretch back generations.
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Little Miami Scenic Corridor ALERT
Little Miami River Access Improvements at Bass Island will continue through summer of 2026. The Bass Island parking lot and river access will be closed during this time. Please refer to the project page for more information and check the website for updates on alerts and closures.
Little Miami Scenic Corridor
From golf to paddling to mountain biking, the Little Miami Scenic Corridor offers something for everyone and access to the Little Miami Scenic Trail system.
Lake Isabella
Nestled along the Little Miami River in Loveland, Lake Isabella is a peaceful spot for fishing, camping and picnicking. With shady campsites, stocked waters and scenic views, it's a natural escape for outdoor fun.
Otto Armleder Memorial Park
Along the Little Miami River in Cincinnati's Linwood neighborhood, guests and their four-legged friends explore open green spaces, paved trails and a spacious dog park, while paddlers enjoy canoe access for a leisurely day on the water. Otto Armleder Memorial Park is jointly managed and operated by Great Parks, the Cincinnati Park Board and the Cincinnati Recreation Commission.
Woodland Mound
Overlooking the Ohio River in Anderson Township, Woodland Mound is a hilltop escape full of family-friendly fun. With wooded trails, panoramic views, interactive nature exhibits and play areas for all ages, it's the perfect spot to stroll, stretch, splash and stargaze.
Campbell Lakes
Reel in your next big catch at four tranquil, secluded lakes nestled along the Whitewater River.
Launch Into Adventure
Learn to Paddle
Guided by American Canoe Association-trained and certified instructors, beginners, novice or advanced paddlers looking to refine their paddling skills, experience thrilling on-the-water adventures in kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding from late May through September. Start your journey on the calm waters of Winton Lake and build up to exhilarating trips on the Little Miami and Great Miami rivers. Great Parks’ paddling programs emphasize skill development, safety and maneuverability, ensuring a fun and safe experience for all.
All equipment is provided. Must be 10 years or older. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Paddling Programs
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Accessible Launches
Accessible canoe/kayak launches are available at Miami Whitewater Forest Lake and Winton Woods Lake.