Can You Canoe The Wabash River?

The Wabash River, located in Indiana, is a popular destination for boating and fishing. It is approximately 500 miles long and has a slow current. The river is relatively shallow and offers hand-carry canoe and kayak access. In Terre Haute, the river is easily accessible by Fairbanks Park, a large park with a concrete boat ramp and dock.

The Wabash River is clean and not challenging, with sufficient current for paddlers to steer or speed up. Fees for canoeing permits are required. The river stretches from western Ohio across central Indiana, then down the Indiana-Illinois border until it dumps into the Ohio River. The Wabash River canoe launch is part of the Town of New Harmony’s recreation trails, located directly west of the Atheneum and marked with a wooden sign.

Paddling down the Wabash River takes three days, each day lasting about 20 miles. There are islands along the river and other banks that are great for camping. Indiana DNR has informational resources for the Wabash River in Indiana, including maps to public access points, river descriptions, weather, and canoe rentals.

The Wabash River is the longest river in Indiana, running for approximately 475 miles. While it would be technically possible to embark on a kayak trip, it is not recommended due to the muddy conditions and lack of proper regulations. The river is also home to some of the best non-motorized kayaking regulations in the state.