The Berrien County park on the south bank of the river in Watervliet is now our recommended access point (instead of Hayes Park on the north bank). This is the take out point for the segment beginning 3 miles upstream at Paw Paw River Campground. It is also the put in point for the 3 mile segment downstream to Coloma. The upstream segment from the campground down to the county park is considered Beginner friendly at normal water levels. Basic maneuvering skills are required to follow the pathway cut through log jams and some logs may be exposed at low water levels. The downstream segment from the county park to Coloma is considered Beginner friendly at normal water levels. Again, rudimentary maneuvering skills are necessary.
The good news about the new access at the county park is that it has a barrier free slide in access that works for kayaks and canoes. The bad news is that it is a long carry from the parking lot for a solo paddler. Helpful hint: Park in the small parking lot on M-140 about 50 feet north of the county park entrance and cut the carry down to the river access in half.
Paw Paw River County Park is open daily, from dawn until dusk. The Park will be closed in the winter months due to safety issues with snow and ice. There are no entry fees for this park. Leashed pets are allowed. Visitors must stay on established trails.
Parking Lot parking is available.
Developed boat access.
Length of access is more than 50 yards.
The sign for this site is along the road (visible from road).
Watervliet, MI 49098
