How do I access Mill Race Park?

Mill Race Park is a public boat ramp in Indiana. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Mill Race Park?

Mill Race Park supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Mill Race Park?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Mill Race Park?

The best time to paddle at Mill Race Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Mill Race Park?

Water conditions at Mill Race Park include mild current.

Is Mill Race Park good for beginners?

Yes, Mill Race Park is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Photo by Steven Van Elk on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Mill Race Park

Columbus, IN · Boat Ramp · Public

Mill Race Park is a public boat ramp on Driftwood River near Columbus, Indiana. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

Launch into Driftwood River near Columbus, Indiana. Beginner level with mild current water.

Mill Race Park is a public launch site on Driftwood River in Indiana, serving as a popular put-in for paddlers exploring this section of the river.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. Midwestern waterways provide reliable paddling through the warmer months, with vast open spaces and uncrowded conditions.

Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Mill Race Park sits about 5 min from Columbus, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

Planning a trip? Read our complete paddler's guide to Columbus.

Launch points, tips, and local conditions →

Paddling Tips

•Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
•River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
•Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
•Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Mill Race Park?: Mill Race Park is a public boat ramp in Indiana. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Mill Race Park?: Mill Race Park supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Mill Race Park?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Mill Race Park?: The best time to paddle at Mill Race Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Mill Race Park?: Water conditions at Mill Race Park include mild current.
Is Mill Race Park good for beginners?: Yes, Mill Race Park is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 39.2041, -85.9284