State Fair Kayak Pond

Among the many things to see and do at this year's Ohio State Fair, July 27 – August 7, is an opportunity to paddle a kayak on the Division of Watercraft’s kayak pond located in the ODNR Park and display area, which is located in the southeast corner of the Ohio State Fairgrounds along 11th Avenue in Columbus. The kayak pond and all other ODNR activities, such as the kiddie fishing, native Ohio wildlife display, archery and shooting range, and entertainment stage, are free of charge.

To enjoy the kayak pond, participants must stand at least 50 inches tall, be capable of properly and safely staying seated in a kayak, and must be able to hold on to a kayak paddle securely. Adults may also participate, though the activity is limited to just one person per kayak. This activity is not a ride but instead represents a fun, hands-on skills and boating safety activity.

Free registration is required on site at the ODNR display Pavilion located between the kayak pond and the entertainment stage at the east end of the ODNR Park. Registration allows paddlers to sign-up and select their paddling session time. They will then receive a wristband that permits their participation in their session on the pond. Paddling sessions will be held each day of the state fair beginning at 10:30 a.m. and concluding at 7:00 p.m.

The 30-minute sessions begin with an overview of paddling safety and life jacket wear. Each participant, regardless of age, is provided a life jacket that they must wear while paddling on the pond. Actual on-water paddling sessions, which are supervised hands-on by Division staff and volunteers, last 10 to 15 minutes.

Water depth in the 7,200-square-foot kayak pond is less than 3 feet. The kayak pond is among the state fair’s most popular free attractions and serves over 3,000 patrons each year.