Defiance Canoeing - Independance Dam State Park

Independance Dam State Park
Defiance, OH 43512

Independence Dam State Park is located approximately 4 miles east of Defiance, on State Route 424. The 606 acre park lies between six unbroken miles of the historic Miami/Wabash/Erie Canal and the Maumee River. The park offers facilities for campers, boaters, hikers, fishermen, picnickers, bicyclists, scenic drivers and winter sports enthusiasts. Campers will find forty shaded rustic campsites without electricity, suitable for tents and trailer. The marina, with a four-lane launch ramp, is located on the north bank of the river approximately one thousand yards up-river from the dam. Motors of unlimited horsepower are permitted. Skiers enjoy four miles of water on the Maumee River. A hiking trail meanders between the old canal and the river for distance of three miles. The trail begins at the East end of the campground and continues through a dense hardwood forest to Florida, Ohio. Once the towpath for the Miami/Wabash/Erie Canal, this trail now offers the hiker an imaginative trip into the colorful past of Ohio?s canal era. Fishing is a popular past time for many park visitors. Every Tuesday beginning the first Tuesday in June through the first Tuesday in September is ?No Motor Night? from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the Dam.. The park is open solely for hikers, walkers, roller bladers, bikes and strollers. All fishermen must comply with the Ohio Division of Wildlife rules and regulations. Numerous picnic tables and waist high grills are available. There are also shelter houses, restrooms, and litter receptacles. There is a two day use policy for the shelter houses which can be reserved. Those not reserved are on a first come, first serve basis. Fires are to be built in fire grills only. For more information, call (419) 784-3263.

Address: State Route 424

Phone: 419-237-2593

Email: [email protected]

Web site: www.dnr.state.oh.us/parks/parks/indpndam.htm

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