Driftwood River in Indiana
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Live Streamflow Data | Maps to Driftwood River Access Points |
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The verbiage below was supplied by Indiana DNR's Canoe Guide. The information was last updated at least 16 years ago. Put-in points have disappeared and new ones have formed since then. It is very important that you submit any trip reports that you have and include what the put-in and take out points look like. With your help we can build a new and improved Indiana Canoe Guide. We will revise the information below as new information presents itself. |
 If you have a favorite river, chances are that you know it best. You can adopt a river for this site, then write about it and describe the put-in points. You will get full credit and you will be doing ALL Hoosiers a big favor. |
The Driftwood River flows from the confluence of the Big Blue River and Sugar Creek to the East Fork of the White River at Columbus, Indiana. It winds through farmland with wooded strips bordering both banks along most of its 16 mile length. The upper section is quite natural but limited development is noticeable along the southern reaches. Vegetation includes silver maple, box elder, green ash, sycamore, cottonwood, and black willow. The careful observer will notice wood ducks, great blue herons, kingfishers, fox squirrels, and spotted sandpipers as the season warrants.
Hunting and fishing is permitted at Atterbury Fish and Wildlife Area in Johnson County off U.S. 31. In addition, picnicking and playground facilities can be found at Millrace Park in Columbus, the take-out site. Fishing in the Driftwood River can yield sunfish, rock bass, bass, and catfish.
The best put-in site is about 1 mile north of the confluence of the Big Blue and the Driftwood Rivers. From State Highway 252 and US 31 at Edinburgh, go west one-half mile on Camp Atterbury Road to the public fishing site. There is a launching ramp in the campground on the northeast corner of the bridge over Sugar Creek for the beginning of a 17 mile trip down the Driftwood. Allow approximately five hours of canoeing time to complete the float. Near the Big Blue River and Sugar Creek confluence, take the East Channel.
To get from the Atterbury put-in to the Millrace Park put in, go to US 31 South to IN 11, just north of Columbus. Turn right (south) on IN 11. Turn right at the first stoplight (still on IN 11) and go to the first street to your right. You are now in Millrace Park - the boat ramp is 500 yards ahead on the left.
The banks of Driftwood River for the most part are private property, so please respect the private property. Doctor and hospital facilities are available in Columbus.
A Word of Warning: One paddler noted that they "encountered locals shooting at beer cans they threw in the water with high powered rifles from high bank after this [CR 265/Lowell Rd. (low water)] bridge!!! Had to yell at them several times to make sure they saw us!"
