River Clean Up at Cuyahoga Valley Adventures, Ohio
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, requiring basic paddling and light physical activity during clean-up.
Overview
Join Paddle The River in Akron for a rewarding river clean-up event in 2025. Paddle, collect debris, and enjoy pizza in a fun day of community and conservation.
River Clean Up Registration at Cuyahoga Valley Adventures Sections
3 Hours • Open to adults and options for youth 10-17 with adult companion
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Join the River Clean-Up with Summit Metro Parks and H2Ohio on select dates in 2025 for a fulfilling day of community service and environmental care. Paddle along the river, collecting debris while enjoying the outdoors. Supplies are provided, and pizza will be served, making this a memorable experience for all!
Join us for the River Clean-Up in partnership with Summit Metro Parks and supported by the H2Ohio Healthy Rivers Livery Program !
This will be a rewarding day of community service, fun, and environmental stewardship. Together, we can make a significant impact on the health of our river ecosystem.
Event Dates/Time:
Date: Friday, June 13th, 2025 Time: 5:30 PM- 8:30 PM Meeting Location: Cuyahoga Valley Adventures Clean up on river will be between Valley View River Access to Cuyahoga Valley Adventures (~2 Miles)
Date: Wednesday, July 9th, 2025 Time: PRIVATE GROUP
Date: Saturday, August 23rd, 2025
Time: 9 AM- 1 PM
Meeting Location: Cuyahoga Valley Adventures
Clean up on river will be between Valley View River Access to Cuyahoga Valley Adventures (2 Miles) & Cuyahoga Valley Adventures to North Hampton Point ( 4 miles)
Date: Saturday, September 13th, 2025 Time: 9 AM- 1 PM Meeting Location: Cuyahoga Valley Adventures Clean up on river will be between Cuyahoga Valley Adventures to North Hampton Point (~4 Miles)
Event Activities:
On River Clean-Up:
Arrive no later than start time of event at Cuyahoga Valley Adventures. We will do a quick talk then head to our destinated River Access for the clean up on that date
For those with kayaking experience.
- We will provide kayaks or you can bring your own to clean up trash/debris from the water / river bed.
- Volunteers will paddle along the river, collecting trash/debris and ensuring our waterways stay pristine.
- Kayaks, paddles and life jackets will be provided.
- Gloves, collection bags, and other necessary supplies will be provided.
- Open to adults and youth 13-17 with adult companion
Items along the river can vary in size and weight. Examples of items could include: tires, bikes, various metals, glass bottles, various plastics/ cans, etc.
What to Bring:
- Participants MUST wear sturdy CLOSED TOE SHOES and comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor work.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. *Wear clothing that can get wet and dirty! Bring a towel and a change of clothes if you would prefer.
Additional Information:
- All volunteers must sign a waiver/ volunteer agreement before participating.
- Safety instructions and a brief training session will be provided at the start of the event.
- This is a zero-waste event; please bring reusable containers, if possible.
Registration:
Registration is free, but spaces for the on river kayak clean-up are limited, so sign up early!
Contact Information:
For more details, contact Moneen at Moneen@PaddleTheRiver.com or text (330) 298-5009.
Adventure Tips
Wear Quick-Drying Clothing
Opt for moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabrics to stay comfortable while paddling and working in wet areas.
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important while on the water and during physical activity.
Apply Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin without harming the river’s ecosystem during outdoor activities.
Check Weather Before You Arrive
River conditions can change with the weather, so plan accordingly for safety and comfort.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great Blue Heron
- River Otters
History
The Cuyahoga River has played a vital role in Akron’s industrial past and is now a focus of extensive environmental restoration efforts.
Conservation
This clean-up supports local initiatives like H2Ohio to improve water quality and restore habitats along the river.
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Adventure Hotspots in Akron
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Life Jacket (PFD)
Mandatory for safety while paddling on the river.
Waterproof Gloves
Protects your hands while collecting debris, especially in cooler weather.
spring|fall|winter specific
Sun Hat
Provides shade and protects your face from intense sunlight.
summer specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout the clean-up event.