story by KARYN LOCKE
The popular phrase “Rollin’ on the River” undoubtedly brings back happy memories to those who’ve experienced the fun it can bring. But what about “Cruisin’ Down a Canal?” Happily, the Hoosier state provides all of these opportunities and more.
Miles of navigable rivers makes LaGrange County and the Shipshewana area a no-brainer place to visit for water sports and pleasurable activities. Considered one of the state’s “most adventurous” rivers, Fawn River’s 44-mile long corridor offers turns and twists with lovely scenic views. Looking to spend the day afloat? The 10-mile span between Nevada Mills and Green Mills is six hours of smooth water enjoyment. Jessica Linder, owner of Trading Post Outfitters, loves the spacious, starry respites the county provides. “Our location here at Trading Post Outfitters is unique, because we’re situated in the middle of the Pigeon River Fish & Wildlife Area, which is almost 12,000 acres. Our trips are on the gentle flow of the Pigeon River through different landscapes, from winding woods to sprawling wetlands. You can escape into the peacefulness of nature, see an array of wildlife, connect with friends and family, and even sleep under the stars on a riverside campsite.”
For Pulaski County’s Tippecanoe River State Park, it’s all about leisurely fun. With 88 natural lakes feeding its waterway system, a slow-paced float down the river and around its bends showcases a mecca of wildlife and varied ecosystem. Feeling a bit more energetic? Grab your rod and reel and get ready for some excellent line casting and top notch fishing.
In Carroll County, there’s no lack of water fun. There’s Indiana’s official state river, the Wabash River, which weaves and bends through the county, providing a glimpse into the state’s past, present, and future.
Julia Leahy, Executive Director of Carroll County’s Destination Marketing Office has fond memories of her time on the water. “Personally, I love to kayak on the Wabash and Erie Canal, especially early in the season when the water is so incredibly clear that you can see the bottom. At certain times of the year, because it receives water from U.S. Aggregates stone quarry, the water almost has a teal color.“
Fort Wayne may be the city where Vera Bradley merchandise is made and sold, but there’s no lack of waterway fun, especially near Promenade Park, a one-of-a-kind park that joins the city’s natural rivers to their urban center. And, their Three Rivers Festival is the second- largest festival in the state.
“Where friends, family, and two rivers meet” is the motto for Cass County in the North Central part of the state. Filled with rich history, the confluence of the Wabash and Eel Rivers make for plenty of water experiences. When thinking of harvesting stone may bring visions of arid land, Cass County’s Kenneth Stone Quarry is a haven for scuba diving and fishing–and even offers a gorgeous waterfall.
Just off the Cardinal Greenway in Richmond is Thistlethwaite Falls, a beautiful 47-foot waterfall in the Whitewater Gorge. Both the young and young at heart enjoy the challenge of climbing up the face of the falls and sliding down a carefully selected area. Not up for climbing the falls? River stomping is also a popular activity here.
In Montgomery County, Sugar Creek is a hub of outdoor activity. There’s the Sugar Creek Nature Park with 64 acres to explore and 4,000 feet of trails to hike. And at Sugar Creek Campground, with a 1⁄2-mile of river frontage, you can camp, canoe, kayak, go tubing, and more.
Harrison County may be the home of Indiana’s first capital city, Corydon, but it’s also the place for truly-unique water fun. Indiana Caverns’ 75-minute tour not only showcases spelunking and millions of years of underground history in the Binkley Cave System, it culminates in a pontoon-style boat ride along its adorable river. And mark your calendar for May 31-June 2 (and a bonus trip June 3) for the annual Paddle Fest in Milltown, featuring camping, live music, great food, campfires with friends and a car show. And of course, paddling up to 37 miles in three days.
From the hills of Hoosier National Forest to the banks of the Ohio River, Perry County offers numerous outdoor adventures. Join the local group of adventure seekers, Paddle Perry, and set out to explore the area’s waterways experiencing the extraordinary beauty the region has to offer. The group often schedules half, full-day and overnight trips. Join in the fun on July 27th as Paddle Perry hosts the 4th annual Pack A Dam Lock. This three-hour paddle on the Ohio River will be packed with 100+ paddle crafts in the Cannelton Lock and Dam and cover six nautical miles.
Madison’s location right on the banks of the Ohio River make it a prime destination for waterway fun. Book a river tour on the Rockin’ Thunder, a commercial passenger vessel with comfortable seating for 20 guests plus crew. Choose a scenic river tour, a mid-week lunch excursion, or even a two- day adventure.
