
What we’re about
Welcome to Ohio Paddlers. If you enjoy paddling rivers, creeks and lakes, this is the group for you! Keep in mind that paddling involves some inherent risk. Because of this, some paddles may not be appropriate for new or beginner paddlers. You must read and accept our release of liability prior to joining or attending any event. Now, let's go paddling!
ACCIDENT WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY
Your yes RSVP and by attending any event acknowledges that you have read and agree to our accident waiver and release of liability. With this in mind, please remember that we are not your guides. We are fellow paddlers offering notice of a group of friends that are gathering to share in ride-share to enable a fun day on the water for all. We love you guys, but we love our families more.
LINKS
Our Web Address: http://www.ohiopaddlers.net
Join us on Facebook?
https://www.facebook.com/groups/ohiopaddlers
International Scale of River Difficulty
The classes below are the American version of the rating system used throughout the world. This system is not exact. Rivers do not always fit easily into one category and there may be regional interpretations.
Rapids are classified by American Whitewater(opens in a new tab) as:
Class I -- Easy -- Fast moving water with riffles and small waves. Few obstructions, all obvious and easily missed with little training. Self-rescue is easy.
Class II -- Novice -- Straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without scouting. Occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium-sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers.
Class III -- Intermediate -- Rapids with moderate, irregular waves which may be difficult to avoid and which can swamp an open canoe. Complex maneuvers in fast current and good boat control in tight passages or around ledges is often required. Strong eddies and powerful current effects can occur.
Class IV -- Advanced -- Intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring precise boat handling in turbulent water. There may be large, unavoidable waves, and holes or constricted passages demanding fast maneuvers under pressure. Rapids require “must” moves above dangerous hazards. Self-rescue is difficult.
DONATIONS
Donations will be requested to make the group payment a couple times per year. A fair donation is roughly $10 per member per year. If that does not work, I will adjust it. Payments go out February and August. Donate using these 4 options
- Zelle to 214-909-7000
- Venmo George-Davis-17 (as a friend)
- PayPal @gdavis727
- Cash to me with a follow up email or text.
- Comments about donations....
If you donate money and your name is not on your PayPal or Venmo account , please add your name to the payment so I can identify the source.
I will report financial status periodically, at the bottom of this page.If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me. Meetup has become too expensive for me to absorb. Annual fee right now is $384 paid out in two payments, 6 months apart. - Closing comments...This approach keeps the group functional. Your voluntary support is much appreciated.
- Approximate account info:
3/13/25 Fee fund balance: $192
Pending deposits: $0
payment completed: February 25, 2025, $191.69
Last payment due for 2025: August 25, 2025. $191.69
($0 remaining need to fund 2025). First 2026 payment due on 2/25/26 - $191.69 Second 2026 payment due on 8/25/26 - $191.69. ($384 needed to fund 2026)
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Camping at Cowan Lake State ParkCowan Lake State Park Campground, Wilmington, OH
Cowan Lake Camping Weekend
Join us for an exciting campout at Cowan Lake State Park, located in Wilmington, Ohio, where we'll enjoy a weekend filled with outdoor adventures! This event will feature kayaking, swimming, and possibly sailing if the wind conditions are favorable. Here's everything you need to know to plan your trip.Event Details
- Location: Cowan Lake State Park Main Campground, 1750 Osborn Rd, Wilmington, OH 45177
- Activities:
- Kayaking: Paddle across the serene 700-acre Cowan Lake, exploring its coves and shoreline. We’ll venture into the upper reaches of the lake and its feeder creeks in search of wildlife, including the elusive bald eagle. In July, the lake’s shallow inlets will be adorned with vibrant American Lotus blooms, creating stunning pathways lined with giant lily pads that tower over kayaks, offering a spectacular backdrop for our paddle.
- Swimming: Cool off at the park’s public beach, a great spot for relaxation and fun in the water.
- Sailing: If the wind is favorable, we’ll take out a Sunfish sailboat for some leisurely sailing on the lake.
- Bicycling: Bring your bicycle to ride around the campground’s paved loops and nearby trails, enjoying the scenic surroundings.
- Camping: Attendees staying overnight are responsible for reserving their own campsite in the main campground. There are plenty of spots open in the campground at this time, so book through the Ohio State Parks reservation system (reserveohio.com) to secure your site. Our group will be camping on lot 49 in the electric area, so feel free to reserve nearby for easier coordination!
- Day Guests: Attendees can join as day guests without camping, but must adhere to the campground’s guest policies, including registering at the camp office and paying any applicable parking or visitor fees.
- Meals: All meals are on your own. Bring your own food, cooking gear, and coolers. The campground has fire rings and picnic tables for your use.
What to Bring
- Your smile
- Kayak or canoe (rentals available at the park if needed)
- Bicycle for campground exploration
- Swimsuit and towel for swimming
- Camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, etc.) for overnight campers
- Camp chair for relaxing around the fire
- Food and cooking supplies for all meals
- Sunfish sailboat if you got em :)
- Sunscreen, bug spray, and other outdoor essentials
Inside Cowan Lake State Park
- Hiking Trails: Explore over 10 miles of trails, including the 1.5-mile Dogwood Trail and the 4-mile Emerald Woods Trail, offering scenic views of the lake and forest.
- Fishing: Cast a line for bass, crappie, or catfish from the shore or a boat.
- Picnic Areas: Enjoy shaded picnic spots with grills and tables for group gatherings.
- Nature Center: Visit the park’s nature center for educational displays and programs about local wildlife.
Nearby Attractions
- Caesar Creek State Park (10 miles away): Offers additional hiking, boating, and fossil hunting opportunities, plus the Pioneer Village for a historical experience.
- Kings Island (20 miles away): A thrilling amusement park with roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions.
- Fort Ancient State Memorial (15 miles away): Explore this National Historic Landmark with ancient Native American earthworks and a museum.
- Little Miami Scenic Trail (10 miles away): A 78-mile paved trail perfect for biking or walking, accessible from nearby towns like Loveland.
- Wilmington’s Historic Downtown (5 miles away): Check out local shops, restaurants, and the Murphy Theatre for a dose of small-town charm.
Additional Notes
- Weather: Check the forecast and come prepared for variable conditions, especially for sailing.
- Park Fees: A daily parking pass or annual Ohio State Parks pass may be required for non-camping vehicles or day guests.
- Group Coordination: We’ll meet at the main campground’s central area each morning to plan the day’s activities.
Get ready for a fun-filled weekend of outdoor adventure at Cowan Lake State Park! Reserve your campsite near lot 49 or plan your day visit soon and let us know if you have any questions.
FOOD
- You are on your own for all meal planning.
- There are many restaurants nearby.
MAPS & INFORMATION
RECOMMENDED GEAR & WHAT TO BRING
Whether you’re paddling, hiking, biking, or just camping and enjoying the outdoors, here’s what you’ll need for a fantastic weekend at Cowan Lake!🏕️ Camping Essentials:
✅ Tent, hammock, or other shelter
✅ Sleeping bag & sleeping pad
✅ Camp chair for fireside relaxing
✅ Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
✅ Cooking gear (stove, fuel, utensils, plates)
✅ Food & snacks (or plan to grab meals in town)
✅ Cooler with ice (if bringing perishables)
✅ Water bottles / hydration system
✅ Firewood & fire starters (or plan to pitch in for shared campfires)🚣♂️ Paddling Gear (if kayaking)
✅ Kayak, paddle, & PFD (life jacket)
✅ Dry bag for phone/valuables
✅ Water shoes or sandals with straps (no flip-flops)
✅ Quick-dry clothing & extra layers
✅ Helmet (recommended for whitewater sections)🥾 Hiking Essentials
✅ Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
✅ Daypack with water & snacks
✅ Trekking poles (optional but helpful)
✅ Rain jacket (weather can be unpredictable)
✅ Bug spray & sunscreen🧢 General Items for All Activities
✅ Layered clothing (temps can drop at night)
✅ Hat & sunglasses
✅ Sunscreen & bug spray
✅ First aid kit & personal medications
✅ Camera / GoPro for capturing epic moments!🚗 Optional / Nice-to-Have Items
🔹 Hammock for relaxing at camp
🔹 Games, frisbee, or playing cards for downtime
🔹 Coffee-making setup (camp coffee is the best!)
🔹 Earplugs (for light sleepers)👉 Need gear? Post in the event comments—we might have extras to lend!
📩 Have questions? Reach out to us!
ACCIDENT WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY
Your yes RSVP and by attending this event acknowledges that you have read and agree to my accident waiver and release of liability. With this in mind, please remember that I am not your guide. I am a fellow adventurer that is offering notice of a group of friends that are gathering to share in fun for all. I love you guys, but I love my family more.CANCELLATION
The event will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather or unsuitable conditions.IMPORTANT: Check this MEETUP event page on Friday morning for last minute details and watch your email for additional updates.
SUNRISE/SUNSET
Moonrise: 3:56am
Sunrise: 5:56am
Moonset: 5:57pm
Sunset: 8:34pmGUESTS
Guests are permitted at this event. However, please encourage your friend to sign up on Meet Up and to this group and RSVP to the event. This ensures that the attendees all read and agree to the liability waiver.NOTE: The details of this event are subject to change.