Clintonville Outfitters

Clintonville Outfitters is your gateway to easy family paddling adventures on the calm Olentangy River. The knowledgeable staff specializes in helping first-time families get on the water safely, offering kayak and bike rentals along with detailed advice on the best kid-friendly routes and put-in spots along this gentle urban waterway.

• ✓Gentle, family-friendly Olentangy River perfect for beginner paddlers
• ✓Expert staff who provide detailed safety instructions and route recommendations
• ✓Tandem kayaks available so parents can paddle with younger children
• ✓Adjacent Olentangy Trail for bike rentals and scenic rides
• ✓Wildlife viewing opportunities including turtles, herons, and fish

1. 1.Call ahead to reserve equipment, especially on summer weekends, and ask staff for their current favorite family paddle route based on water levels
2. 2.Start with the 2-hour rental option for your first family outing,it's enough time without overwhelming younger paddlers
3. 3.Wear water shoes or sandals that can get wet, bring sunscreen, and pack snacks and water in a dry bag they can provide
4. 4.Take advantage of their free advice on river conditions and wildlife spotting opportunities,staff know where turtles and herons hang out
5. 5.Park in the shopping plaza lot and arrive 20-30 minutes before your rental time to get properly fitted and receive safety instructions

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the best weather for paddling. Weekday mornings are ideal for calmer waters and fewer people on the river. Avoid weekends after 11am during peak summer when the river gets busier.

Rental prices are reasonable for family outings, and life jackets are included with all kayak rentals. Free parking is available in the plaza lot. No food is sold on-site, so plan accordingly, though you can bring snacks on the water in waterproof containers.

Open spring through fall with peak season May-September. Winter hours may be limited to gear sales only. River conditions vary with rainfall, so call ahead during wet weather. Early summer offers the most reliable water levels for family paddling.

Northstar Café (5 minutes south) offers healthy, organic kid-friendly meals with a great outdoor patio. For casual pizza and sandwiches, try Harvest Pizzeria just up High Street with lots of options for picky eaters.