 Muskingum River
Located in eastern and southeastern Ohio, the state’s 6th longest river flows for 112 miles from Coshocton to Marietta through the state’s Appalachian region. Water Trail Map
The river’s unique feature is its historic system of ten hand-powered navigation locks -- celebrated as one of the world’s truly great engineering accomplishments. It is the nation’s only remaining system of hand-operated river locks.
The lock system allows boaters to navigate 86 scenic miles of the Muskingum River from Dresden in northern Muskingum County to Marietta and the Ohio River. It is imperative that boaters know the location of all dams on any riverway or stream. Navigational charts and locking-through procedures are available from the Muskingum River State Park office by calling 740-453-4377. A small fee is charged to go through the lock structure.
The Muskingum River has an average gradient of 1.3 feet per mile. The river serves more than 7,000 recreational boaters yearly, which leaves plenty of opportunity for more boaters to enjoy a quality river boating experience. Boats with unlimited horsepower may operate on the river, though it is most common to see canoes, kayaks, rowboats, pontoons, houseboats, bass boats and mid-sized cruisers.
Fishing opportunities are very good throughout the river and in some of its many tributaries. Most anglers pursue bass, catfish and saugeye. Fishing is permitted from boats at lock sites, but prohibited from the lock walls.
Eleven public launch ramps include the City of Coshocton ramp, the Stockport Lock and Dam, McConnelsville Lock and Dam, Malta, Luke Chute Lock and Dam, Ellis Lock and Dam, Riverside Park, Putnam Landing, Beverly, and the Indian Acres ramp in Marietta.
Overnight lodging and camping are available throughout the Muskingum River Valley. |