River Dogs Paddlesports is a family-run outfitter devoted to showcasing the wild charm of Ohio’s Little Miami River, the state’s first designated Scenic River. Their upbeat crew supplies top-quality kayaks or canoes and a hassle-f...
River Dogs Paddlesports is a family-run outfitter devoted to showcasing the wild charm of Ohio’s Little Miami River, the state’s first designated Scenic River. Their upbeat crew supplies top-quality kayaks or canoes and a hassle-f...
Mark and his team have built something genuinely special along this stretch of the Little Miami River near South Lebanon. Reviewers consistently praise the staff as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, going out of their way to help everyone from kids to a 74-year-old first-timer get comfortable on the water. The kayaks themselves get mentioned repeatedly as a standout, with adjustable reclining seats that keep you dry and comfortable throughout the trip. The river section they run is scenic and calm, making it a solid choice for beginners or anyone after a relaxed float rather than an adrenaline rush. Wildlife sightings are common, with ospreys, herons, kingfishers, deer, and turtles popping up regularly. Both the 3.5 and 5 mile routes get positive mentions, and the shuttle van to the put-in is described as clean and comfortable. Parking is easy and the check-in process is quick. If you want a quieter experience, a few paddlers suggest going after Labor Day when crowds thin out. Large groups have also had smooth experiences here, so this works well beyond just couples or small parties.
We had a great time kayaking with River Dogs this past weekend (Sep 21, 2025). The folks helping us were very friendly, answered all our questions, and got us where we needed to go. The gear (PFD, kayaks) were really comfortable and clean. The trip to the launch point was quick and comfortable. We did the 3.5 mi single kayak option with 2 people in our party, and there was only 1 other person going out at the same time. We pretty much didn't see them at all after the first 100 yards on the river, so the trip was very quiet and private. It was a really nice stretch of the river and the water was low, so we had a very relaxed time which is what we were looking for. We saw lots of birds (e.g. osprey, belted kingfisher, red shouldered hawk, blue heron), multiple deer, and turtles. Overall an absolute blast and we will definitely go again next year, maybe try the longer route. If you want a more relaxed and quiet time, I would definitely recommend end of the season after labor day, just keep an eye on the weather.
Julija Vinckeviciute
September 22, 2025
We had a great time kayaking with River Dogs this past weekend (Sep 21, 2025). The folks helping us were very friendly, answered all our questions, and got us where we needed to go. The gear (PFD, kayaks) were really comfortable and clean. The trip to the launch point was quick and comfortable. We did the 3.5 mi single kayak option with 2 people in our party, and there was only 1 other person going out at the same time. We pretty much didn't see them at all after the first 100 yards on the river, so the trip was very quiet and private. It was a really nice stretch of the river and the water was low, so we had a very relaxed time which is what we were looking for. We saw lots of birds (e.g. osprey, belted kingfisher, red shouldered hawk, blue heron), multiple deer, and turtles. Overall an absolute blast and we will definitely go again next year, maybe try the longer route. If you want a more relaxed and quiet time, I would definitely recommend end of the season after labor day, just keep an eye on the weather.
Julija Vinckeviciute
September 22, 2025