Big Scioto River in Ohio

Trip Overview

We put in at briarpatch at the intersection of 104 and 348.It is a good put in spot. There are other spots up river, But this one is a good spot for a quick trip. The river is easy, and makes a great trip for a beginner. This trip ,I went to work and got rained out. Just happened to have two sparky's in the back of the truck. A friend from work said, "Hey, let's go kayaking!" So we went, he had never done it. We put in about 11am and took off down river. The big scioto has a lot of strainers and spots of shallow water. Every time I have done it the wildlife has been out. Wood ducks, geese, and jumping fish are abundant.

We go to second street in Portsmouth, Ohio. When you get out of the water, You are looking at the Ohio river. Closer to the end of the trip the large hills of southern Ohio and Kentucky can be seen. About halfway of the trip where brush creek comes into the big scioto. There is a rapid, It looks worse than it really is. But, It is really fun to play in. They water is really shallow, about one to one and a half feet deep. Big rocks are usually showing both above the water and below the surface. The main thing is keep your boat straight, If you get sideways and stuck on a rock. Chances are you will turn over! But it is a good beginner trip, I really had a great time. I am sure you will too!

Directions:

Take 23 to lucasville, turn on 348, go about a mile to the intersection of 104 ans 348. The put in is on the right. Under the bridge. We launch off between the two rocks.