Lower Tippecanoe River in Indiana
The water level in the lower segment of Tippecanoe River is usually adequate for canoeing throughout the summer due to water releases from the Oakdale Dam. The dam is operated by Northern Indiana Public Service Company and creates Lake Freeman. Fishing for northern pike, channel catfish, sunfish and largemouth, smallmouth and rock bass is considered generally good in the lower part of Tippecanoe River. Oakdale Dam to State Road 18This segment is about 10 miles long and should require 5 to 8 hours to float, depending on water levels. Cabin development along the river is quite dense downstream of the dam, but it is still a nice float trip. The put-in site is southeast of the W CR 725 E bridge over the river, off N CR 1200 W, which is downstream of the bridge on river left. There is parking for several vehicles. To drive to the take-out at State Road 18, head east on W CR 725 E to the T intersection. Turn right (south) onto N 1150 W, then turn left (east) onto W 700 N. Turn right (south) onto US 421/SR 39 and follow it to SR 18. Turn right (west) onto SR 18 and follow it to the bridge over the Tippecanoe River; cross over the bridge and turn right into the access site. State Road 18 to Davis Ferry ParkThis segment includes nearly 9 miles of canoeing on Tippecanoe River and 6 miles on Wabash River. The total float of about 15 miles should require 5 to 8 hours, depending on water levels. For a shorter trip it is possible to take out at the boat ramp (for a fee) at a private camp, River Junction, at the confluence of the Tippecanoe and Wabash Rivers (on the left bank of the Wabash across from the mouth of the Tippecanoe). This section of the Tippecanoe River is much less developed and offers an enjoyable canoeing experience. The put-in site is northwest of the SR 18 (Springboro) bridge over the river, approximately 4 1/2 miles west of the intersection of SR 18, 39, and 25 at Delphi. The put-in is on the river right bank, upstream of the bridge, and parking is available for several vehicles. To drive to the take-out site at Davis Ferry Park, return to Delphi by heading east on SR 18 and go right (southwest) on SR 25 to Lafayette. Turn right (west) on US 52 (Sagamore Parkway), proceed to the first stop light (Duncan Road), then turn left (south). Proceed to the next intersection and turn left (north) on Ninth Street Road. The proceed to Davis Ferry Park which is on the left (west) before you cross the Wabash River. Emergency medical service is available at hospitals in Lafayette. |
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