Best Places to Kayak Near Columbus, OH
30 public launch points within 50 miles of Columbus, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.
Top Picks Near Columbus
1O'Shaughnessy Reservoir - Midpoint Launch
Standout kayak fishing on Scioto River
2Buckeye Lake State Park - Lieb's Island
Calm, sheltered water that's ideal for beginners and paddle boarding
3Mt. Gilead State Park
Well-equipped launch with boat ramp, parking, picnic area
Alum Creek State Park - New Galena
Ohio · 4.0 mi
Alum Creek State Park - Hollenbach Launch
Ohio · 4.7 mi
Hoover Reservoir - Boat Stake Area D
Ohio · 5.1 mi
Big Walnut Creek - Big Walnut Trail
Ohio · 5.2 mi
Hoover Reservoir - Maxtown
Ohio · 5.2 mi
Hoover Reservoir - Hoover Marina
Ohio · 5.5 mi
Hoover Reservoir - Oxbow Road Launch Ramp
Ohio · 5.7 mi
Hoover Reservoir - Baldridge Boat Ramp
Ohio · 5.9 mi
Hoover Reservoir - Twin Bridges Launch
Ohio · 6.6 mi
Alum Creek State Park - Campground/Church
Ohio · 6.6 mi
Alum Creek State Park - Cheshire
Ohio · 6.8 mi
O'Shaughnessy Reservoir - Midpoint Launch
Ohio · 7.5 mi
O'Shaughnessy Reservoir - Two Lakes West
Ohio · 8.7 mi
O'Shaughnessy Reservoir - Marina and Launch
Ohio · 9.0 mi
Alum Creek State Park - Howard Road
Ohio · 10.0 mi
Griggs Reservoir - Griggs Park Drive
Ohio · 10.0 mi
Griggs Reservoir - Trabue Murphy Landing
Ohio · 10.1 mi
Griggs Reservoir - Marina
Ohio · 10.6 mi
Bellepoint Launch Ramp
Ohio · 11.4 mi
Kilbourne Hand Launch
Ohio · 12.9 mi
Scioto River - Lower Scioto Park and Boat Launch
Ohio · 14.0 mi
Delaware State Park - Wildlife D1 Access
Ohio · 15.8 mi
Delaware State Park - South Ramp
Ohio · 16.2 mi
Delaware State Park - South/south of ramp
Ohio · 16.3 mi
Delaware State Park - Main Ramp
Ohio · 17.0 mi
Delaware State Park - East ramp
Ohio · 17.3 mi
Mackey Ford Wildlife Area
Ohio · 25.7 mi
Madison Lake State Park
Ohio · 28.4 mi
Buckeye Lake State Park - Lieb's Island
Ohio · 29.0 mi
Mt. Gilead State Park
Ohio · 29.3 mi
Paddling Near Other Cities
Widen your search to towns within an hour of Columbus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to kayak near Columbus, OH?
Top picks near Columbus include O'Shaughnessy Reservoir - Midpoint Launch, Buckeye Lake State Park - Lieb's Island, Mt. Gilead State Park. In total there are 30 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on lakes, creeks, rivers.
What types of paddling can I do near Columbus?
Near Columbus you'll find opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding. Most locations offer beginner-friendly conditions with public boat ramp access.
Are there free kayak launches near Columbus?
Yes! Most public boat ramps near Columbus are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.