Frequently Asked Questions



  • What is the purpose of the club? - - To explorer the rivers and streams of Ohio while enjoying the company of like minded individuals.

  • Are children welcomed? - - By all means yes. Children are the future of the sport.

  • Do you offer canoeing classes? - - We do not offer formal or certified canoeing classes. But each member is more than willing to help with improving your skills if you ask. Some members are certified instructors and may be able to set up special training, or advise you on where to obtain it.

  • Do you provide equipment? - - All members are self sufficient and provide their own equipment. If you need boating gear, liveries are an excellent source for boat rental and can provide boats, paddles, and flotation devices. Many times we actually camp at canoe liveries. At this time several members have trailers and will assist with shuttles. You provide your own camping gear.

  • Are kayaks welcomed? - - Yes, all hand powered watercraft are welcomed although we are specifically geared to canoes and canoeing techniques.

  • Do you wear a life vest? - - State law requires that a Coast Guard approved life vest be on board for each passenger. The club highly recommends members wearing their vest while on the water but does not mandate it for participation.

  • What type of safety equipment would I need? - - Life vest, throw rope, change of dry clothes, extra paddle, etc.

  • How many miles a day do you paddle? - - On Saturdays we usually paddle 8 - 15 miles while Sundays are usually 3 - 10 miles. Saturday evening we always have a fantastic pot luck dinner. You are welcome to join us for a meal or camping just to get acquainted.

  • Do canoes need lights after dark? - - Yes. The law requires that you have some sort of light if out at night. A headlamp or light attached to the bow of the boat is sufficient.

  • How often do you paddle? - - Monthly as a club, more often when we can.

  • How do you decide where you are paddling? - - An annual planning meeting every November currently held in Galion, Ohio where we plan a calendar of events for the coming season.

  • What should I wear on the fringe times of the year when the weather and water can be cold? - - Cotton should be avoided especially as a base layer because it dries very slowly and wicks your body heat away. Wool is good as it retains warmth even when wet. Most synthetic clothing is good as it dries quickly when wet and it also wicks away any perspiration from your body so that you do not get damp and cold.

  • Do you allow alcohol? - - Yes, in moderation when we are camping, but never in the boat when we are paddling, per state law.

  • Any other questions you would like to ask or have added on this page please email: manager@ohcra.org.