Chase Bridge Boat Launch

There's no ramp here — this is a carry-down spot for kayaks, canoes, and tubes. The bank access is well-worn and easy enough to get a boat to the water, but don't even think about bringing a trailer. Perfect for paddlers, useless for anything with a motor.

You cross a narrow one-lane bridge to reach the parking area and river access. It's not a big deal most days, but on a Saturday morning in July when a dozen kayak groups are staging, you can get a little standoff. Just be patient and yield.

Chase Bridge to Smith Bridge runs about 4-6 hours depending on your pace and the current. It's a popular section. If you're using a livery like Campbell's, they'll shuttle your boats — coordinate pickup timing before you put in so you're not sitting on the bank waiting.

The lot looks decent-sized until peak summer weekends when every tubing and kayak group in Crawford County shows up. By mid-morning on a Saturday it's full. Weekdays or early mornings you'll have no trouble at all.

The water right at the bridge is shallow enough for kids and dogs to wade comfortably. That's great for swimming, but if you're launching a loaded canoe in late summer when levels drop, you may need to walk it out a bit before hopping in to avoid dragging bottom.