Sandusky River in Ohio

by  guest-paddler

A self-supported trip created by guest-paddler

Trip Overview

I had never seen or heard of a report covering this section of the river so we decided to take a chance and explore it. You need at least 3' of water to do this section of the Sandusky.

We put in at the Aumiller Park in Bucyrus. A road there goes across the river at low tide and is an excellent place to put in. The crossing is closed to traffic at the water levels you need to kayak this section of the Sandusky so you don't need to worry about holding up traffic. Approach the river from the east, the parking is within 100' of the river on that side. Take out was river right at CR 1.

At this point the river is maybe 20-30' wide and meanders through woodlands and tree lined farm fields. Except for bridges and occasional trash along the river there is very little sign of civilization. You can expect to see deer, geese, ducks, king fishers, soft shell turtles and the occasional eagle. The river twists and turns a lot and has lots of small rapids to shoot through with the occasional straight stretch. Don't expect to see anything above Class 1 rapids. At higher water levels this can keep you on your toes avoiding overhanging tree limbs.

There were only two places where we had to thread a needle going over downed tree limbs. Other than that it's clear sailing, although that can change at any time because of the narrowness of the river. It goes anywhere from 20' to maybe 100' wide.

Accommodations:

Follow this link to a web site for lodging: ohiohotels.org/.

There are numerous restaurants and carry-outs for food in the area.

Fees:

No fees or permits are required for anywhere on the river

Directions:

Aumiller Park is on the West central edge of Bucyrus. Take RT 4 into Bucyrus turning right onto W. Charles St.. Take Charles till it dead ends at Kramer Ave and turn left. Turn right when you get to Gay St. then take the next right into the park. Parking is on the left. To get to the take out point leave the park and turn right on Gay St. following it to Kaler Ave. Turn right, and go to W. Southern Ave. turning right again. Take it to CR 12 and turn right. Follow this to CR 1 and turn right. Go to the bridge and you're there. I have taken the river to CR 128 but be aware there are no trespassing signs posted there.

Trip Details

  • Trip Duration: Day Trip
  • Sport/Activity: Kayaking, Canoeing
  • Skill Level: Beginner
  • Water Type: River/Creek (Up to Class II)

Trip Location