Go Boating: Ohio Boating Destinations

Approximately one-third of the state’s recreational boating activity occurs on Lake Erie -– Ohio’s inland sea. A study by Michigan State University (published in 2007) concluded that nearly half of all registered powerboats in the U.S. are located within the 8-state Great Lakes region that includes Ohio. With its excellent sportfishing action and island destinations in the western basin, no doubt Lake Erie remains a top boating destination for many people.

A number of inland Ohio lakes are favored by many other boaters because of their location, fishing opportunities, state park amenities, vacation homes and beaches. Buckeye, Alum Creek and Indian lakes in central Ohio; Caesar Creek Lake and C.J. Brown Reservoir in southwest Ohio; Mosquito Creek Lake and the Portage Lakes in northeast Ohio; and Salt Fork and Seneca lakes in eastern Ohio are among the more popular boating destinations because of their size, access, and diverse boating and fishing opportunities.

Paddlesports – canoeing and kayaking – are among the fastest growing of all outdoors activities. Affordability, ease of transport, storage requirements, operational costs and improved access are just some of the reasons more people today are enjoying paddling recreation. In fact, Ohio has seen a marked increase of just over 100% in the past decade in the number of registered canoes and kayaks.

Ohio is home to 14 designated state scenic rivers and 7 water trails. These waterways, such as the Little Miami River in southwest Ohio, the Kokosing River, and Big and Little Darby creeks in central Ohio, and four scenic rivers in Ashtabula County in northeast Ohio are regarded among top boating destinations for paddlers and others who want a different type of waterway and boating experience. Improved river and stream access also has added to the popularity of Ohio’s scenic rivers and water trails.

When paired with other land-based tourist attractions such as historical sites, cultural museums and entertainment, boating adds to the unique experience Ohio offers in vacation and destination planning. What’s more, there is a wide array of information resources readily available online and through local convention and visitor bureaus that makes planning as easy as putting on a life jacket when going boating.