SOUTH LEBANON KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Drift the Little Miami: A 3.5‑Mile, Easy Kayak Float from South Lebanon
A gentle 1½–3 hour, 3.5‑mile float on the Scenic Little Miami River — this guide lays out logistics, gear, and what to expect from River Dog's Adventure.
Drift the Little Miami: A 3.5‑Mile, Easy Kayak Float from South Lebanon.
River Dog's Adventure is a relaxed, 3.5‑mile float on the Scenic Little Miami River operated by River Dogs Paddlesports. The trip is staged from South Lebanon and uses premium equipment; it’s designed as a fun, easy paddle for everyone from first‑timers to experienced paddlers and offers frequent wildlife viewing and ever‑changing river scenery.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Scenic Little Miami — easy, wildlife‑rich paddling
A gentle 3.5‑mile float on the Scenic Little Miami River delivers steady, low‑stress paddling and regular wildlife encounters, making each trip a relaxed nature outing.
Premium boats and safety kit included
The experience includes use of high‑quality single and tandem kayaks, canoes, paddles and life jackets so you can focus on the river rather than equipment.
Leisurely 1.5–3 hour float suitable for all levels
Planned as an easy, recreational trip, the float is appropriate for beginners through experts, with transportation provided to the launch so you can drift back to your vehicle at the take‑out.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
Expect a calm, unhurried paddle: a short shuttle to the launch, then a 3.5‑mile float down the Scenic Little Miami River that typically takes between 1½ and 3 hours. Premium kayaks and life jackets are provided, and the route is pitched as an easy, wildlife‑filled outing for paddlers of any experience level.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Typical trip duration is 1½–3 hours for the 3.5‑mile float. The operator’s last trip departs at 3:00 pm and all guests must return by the 6:00 pm closing time.
Meet at Roger's Ballpark, 210 S High Street, South Lebanon, Ohio for check‑in before your shuttle to the launch; reservations are required and should be made online.
Bring weather‑ and river‑appropriate clothing and close‑toed water shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and a small cooler with non‑alcoholic drinks. Consider a dry box or floating pouch for electronics.
No dogs, no alcohol, no glass or styrofoam coolers. Single kayaks hold up to 375 lb; tandem kayaks hold up to 450 lb combined. Minimum passenger age is 5 years and 40 lb with specific rules for minors.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What’s included in the price?
Use of high‑quality single and tandem kayaks, canoes, paddles and life jackets, plus transportation to your starting point so you float back to your vehicle without waiting for pickup.
Are dogs allowed?
No. Due to insurance restrictions dogs are not permitted on the operator’s property.
Is alcohol allowed?
No. The Little Miami River is part of the state park system and alcohol is prohibited; you can be ticketed for an open container or OVI.
What is the weight limit on the kayaks?
Single kayaks hold 375 pounds; tandem kayaks hold 450 pounds combined.
Is there an age requirement?
Minimum age is 5 years and 40 pounds. Children ages 5–11 must ride in a tandem kayak or canoe with an adult; minors under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Sixteen‑ and 17‑year‑olds may paddle unaccompanied with a parent/guardian waiver.
Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes. Reservations are required to limit numbers each hour; you can change or cancel up to 24 hours before the trip via riverdogspaddlesports.com. Opt in to email/text when booking for trip updates.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations at least 24 hours in advance may choose a full refund or gift card. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the scheduled time receive a gift card.
What should I take on the river?
Wear quick‑drying clothing and close‑toed water shoes (preferably with ankle straps), bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, hydration and snacks, and a small cooler with non‑alcoholic drinks; reusable bottles are preferred.
What should I NOT take on the river?
Do not bring alcohol, drugs, glass containers, styrofoam coolers, or valuables. Car keys should be left on the operator’s key rack; jewelry is discouraged. Phones in zip‑lock bags are not recommended—use a dry box or floating pouch.
Can I fish from my kayak?
Yes; you may fish from your kayak but be sure to carry a valid fishing license.