Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingPicnic Area

Best Time to Visit

Shawnee State Park - Marina

Friendship, OH · Boat Ramp · Public

Shawnee State Park - Marina is a public boat ramp on Ohio River near Friendship, Ohio. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, picnic area. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Public launch on Ohio River in Ohio. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Friendship.

Paddlers visiting Ohio River in Ohio can launch from Shawnee State Park - Marina, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

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. Great Lakes paddling combines freshwater vastness with coastal-style conditions and scenery.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and picnic area.

Shawnee State Park - Marina sits about 5 min from Friendship, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Shawnee State Park - Marina ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
  • Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Shawnee State Park - Marina?
Shawnee State Park - Marina is a public boat ramp in Ohio. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Shawnee State Park - Marina?
Shawnee State Park - Marina supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Shawnee State Park - Marina?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, picnic area. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Shawnee State Park - Marina?
The best time to paddle at Shawnee State Park - Marina is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Shawnee State Park - Marina?
Water conditions at Shawnee State Park - Marina include calm, sheltered.
Is Shawnee State Park - Marina good for beginners?
Yes, Shawnee State Park - Marina is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 38.6765, -83.1111

Quick Facts

State
Ohio
Region
Great Lakes
Getting There
~5 min from Friendship
Get Directions

38.6765, -83.1111

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