Discover the serene beauty of Ohio's Portage River on a guided kayak trip with Portage River Paddling Company LLC. Perfect for all skill levels, this adventure offers scenic views, wildlife encounters, and a relaxing outdoor escape.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical effort required for leisurely paddling
Wildlife
History
The Portage River played a significant role in Ohio's early transportation and commerce history, with local communities developing around its waterways.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to preserve the river's natural habitat, including riverbank restorations and pollution reduction initiatives.
Portage River Paddling Company LLC
Discover the serene beauty of Ohio's Portage River on a guided kayak trip with Portage River Paddling Company LLC. Perfect for all skill levels, this adventure offers scenic views, wildlife encounters, and a relaxing outdoor escape.
Portage River Paddling Company LLC is an outfitter in Oak Harbor, Ohio, offering canoe, kayak, bike, and paddleboard rentals and seasonal river trips on the Portage River. The operation supplies family-friendly 15.6' Mackinaw canoes with three seats, built-in storage, cupholders, and oar rests, alongside single 11.5' Perception Tribes and 13.5' Perception Tribe tandem kayaks that accommodate gear and children. Oak Harbor river trips run from May 24 through Labor Day, Thursdays through Sundays, with shuttle service that launches paddlers upstream for a downstream return from Riverbend Park over calm, scenic water. The Port Clinton location provides flexible bicycle rentals by the hour, day, or week and permits delivery to vacation rentals. A signature offering pairs paddleboarding with friendly goats aboard a 16' Paddleship, traveling to Judy Island where guests can view a bald eagle nest and enjoy treats during the outing. Portage River Paddling Company LLC serves families, beginners, and casual paddlers seeking accessible outdoor recreation close to Lakeshore and Port Clinton. Equipment is selected for stability and ease of use for novices, and seasonal schedules and equipment descriptions are published for each trip. Reservations are encouraged for weekend and summer dates. The outfitter focuses on low-impact, scenic routes of the Portage River and on providing safe, memorable days on the water.
Seasonal availability and reservations are available online or by phone.
Trips Offered
7
Featured rentals and seasonal trips
Season
May 24–Labor Day
Oak Harbor river trips schedule
Family Friendly
Yes
Stable craft for beginners and kids
Port Clinton
Bike Rentals
Hourly, daily, or weekly options
Reserve canoe, kayak, bike, or the paddleboarding-with-goats experience — seasonal trips run May 24 through Labor Day.
Wear Bright Clothing for Visibility
Bright colors help you stay visible on the water, especially in busy or crowded areas.
Check Water Conditions Before Paddling
Ensure water levels and weather conditions are suitable for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Apply Sunscreen and Wear a Hat
Protect yourself from sun exposure during sunny days to prevent sunburns.
Bring Reusable Water Bottles
Stay hydrated throughout the trip while reducing plastic waste.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Allows you to stay safe and buoyant on the water, which is required by law.
Waterproof Sun Protection
Keeps your skin protected from UV rays during sunny days.
summer
Quick-Dry Clothing
Keeps you comfortable and dry during paddling, especially if you get splashed.
spring|summer|fall
Water-resistant Footwear
Provides good grip and keeps your feet dry and comfortable.
spring|summer|fall