Paw Paw River Campground Water Access
UPDATED FOR 2020! This is the only privately owned access point on the Paw Paw River and there is a (very reasonable) $5.00 per vehicle charge for parking. This is the take-out for trips beginning 2 miles upstream at County Line Road or 5.5 miles upstream at 67 1/2 Street. It is also the put-in point for the 3 mile segment heading downstream to the new county park in Watervliet. The paddle pathway downstream to Watervliet was most recently cleared in mid July 2020, so this section of river to Watervliet is considered Beginner friendly at normal water levels. Rudimentary maneuvering skills are required to follow the paddle pathway from one side of the river to the other.
The canoe livery at the campground normally maintains the upstream stretch of river from County Line Road down to the campground and it is considered Beginner friendly with the occasional fallen tree to haul over at low water levels. The campground owners also provide a canoe/kayak/tube livery service from County Line Road down to their campground and it may also be possible to make arrangements for a shuttle drop off or pick up both upstream and downstream.
Be aware that near Watervliet, the river separates into two channels. The channel on River Right is known as the "Historic Channel" and is not recommended at this time because it goes over a small rapids with lots of exposed rocks at low water levels. Also, no tree clearing has been done on the Historic Channel. The channel on River Left is the "Power Dam Channel" because it used to lead to a power dam which has now been removed. The left channel is recommended because it has had tree clearing work done. It does have a small riffle (stay in the middle) just before the confluence with Mill Creek and a short but fun Class 1 rapids (stay in the middle) ending in a large eddy pool where the Historic Channel rejoins. The take-out at the county park is on River Left just past the eddy pool and there is a universal access kayak launch there.
To find the Paw Paw River Campground access point, drive north out of Watervliet on M-140 a few miles and the campground will be on the east side of the road.
Parking Lot parking is available.
There is a parking fee of $5.00 at this location.
Public restrooms are available (Flush Toilet).
Camping is available: Rustic (area for tents and restrooms), Improved (electric, running water, showers)
Developed boat access.
Length of access is less than 50 yards.
You need to register at the campground office ($5.00 charge per vehicle to park) and then drive to the left past the campground office building down to the boat launch area to unload boats. The campground owners ask that you please not park in riverside camping spots but instead use the large grassy area to park.
A nearby local outfitter provides just rentals including transport of boat.
