WINAMAC CANOE FIELD GUIDE
Overnight Trip! — Two Days, Two 12‑mile Runs on the Tippecanoe for Experienced Paddlers
A guided, two‑day canoe journey run by Riverside Rentals that covers 12 miles each day with an overnight primitive campsite at Tippecanoe River State Park — essential reading to plan logistics, reservations, and safety.
Overnight Trip! — Two Days, Two 12‑mile Runs on the Tippecanoe for Experienced Paddlers.
This is a hard‑edged river overnight: two days of paddling roughly 12 miles each day on the Tippecanoe River, shuttled from Riverside Rentals in Winamac to the Monterey launch and back, with an overnight at a primitive campsite in Tippecanoe River State Park. The route moves steadily downstream, demanding steady strokes, navigation skill, and planning for a remote night on the river.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Two 12‑mile Days on the Tippecanoe
Each day covers approximately 12 miles and about 5–6 hours of paddling, with the first day from Monterey Public Access to Tippecanoe River State Park and the second day floating back to Riverside Rentals.
Primitive Campsite at Tippecanoe River State Park
The overnight is at a primitive campsite in Tippecanoe River State Park — you must reserve that campsite with the state park before scheduling the trip.
Shuttle, Check‑in, and Tight Return Windows
Riverside Rentals handles a morning shuttle to the launch and returns you the next day; all rented equipment must be returned by 6:00 PM EST on weekdays and 7:00 PM EST on weekends, so plan your float and packing accordingly.
What the day feels like
What the Trip Feels Like
This is a committed overnight paddle: a 10:00 AM shuttle to the Monterey launch, a long day on the river covering 12 miles to reach the state park, an evening on a primitive campsite, then a relaxed departure the next day to float the same distance back to Riverside Rentals. Expect steady downstream travel, river time to read water and manage gear, and the solitude of a primitive riverside camp.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who it doesn’t.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Trip leaves once per day at 10:00 AM EST; plan on roughly 5–6 hours of paddling and 12 miles each day. All times are Eastern Standard Time.
Book online with Riverside Rentals and, critically, call Tippecanoe River State Park to reserve a primitive campsite before you schedule the trip.
Wear a US Coast Guard‑approved life jacket on the river at all times; bring appropriate clothing and overnight camping gear for a primitive site.
Drive to Riverside Rentals (589 E Old SR 14 in Winamac), check in before the 10:00 AM shuttle, and return all rented equipment by 6:00 PM EST weekdays or 7:00 PM EST weekends.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is each day on the water?
Expect about 5–6 hours of paddling each day, covering roughly 12 miles per day.
Where and when do we meet?
Arrive at Riverside Rentals by 9:45 AM EST at 589 E Old State Road 14 in Winamac; the office is next to the parking lot for check‑in before the 10:00 AM shuttle.
Do I need to reserve a campsite?
Yes — you must call Tippecanoe River State Park to reserve a primitive campsite before you schedule this trip.
Are life jackets required?
Yes — US Coast Guard‑approved life jackets must be worn on the river at all times.
Can I bring my own canoe, kayak, or inflatable?
No — personal canoes, kayaks, tubes, rafts or inflatables are not allowed; personal cooler floats and glass or styrofoam coolers are also prohibited.
What time must rented equipment be returned?
All equipment must be returned by 6:00 PM EST on weekdays and by 7:00 PM EST on weekends.