Tippecanoe River (lower section)
The water level in the lower segment of Tippecanoe River is usually adequate for canoeing throughout the summer due to water releases from the Oakdale Dam. The dam is operated by Northern Indiana Public Service Company and creates Lake Freeman. Fishing for northern pike, channel catfish, sunfish and largemouth, smallmouth and rock bass is considered generally good in the lower part of Tippecanoe River. Cabin development along the river is quite dense downstream of the dam, but the segment described below is much less developed and offers an enjoyable canoeing experience. Access to the river is available at a private camp, for a fee, just downstream of the dam on the right bank of the river if a longer trip than the one described is desired.
State Road 18 to Davis Ferry Park
This segment includes nearly 9 miles of canoeing on Tippecanoe River and 6 miles on Wabash River. The total float of about 15 miles should require 5 to 8 hours, depending on water levels. It is possible to take out a canoe, for a fee, at a private camp at the confluence of the Tippecanoe and Wabash Rivers (on the left bank of the Wabash across from the mouth of the Tippecanoe); however, arrangements should be made in advance.
The put-in site is at the S.R. 18 bridge over the river, approximately 4 1/2 miles west of the intersection of S.R. 18, 39, and 25 at Delphi. The put-in is on the right bank, upstream of the bridge; parking is available for a few vehicles. To drive to the take-out site at Davis Ferry Park, return to Delphi by heading east on S.R. 18 and go right (southwest) on S.R. 25 to Lafayette. Turn right (west) on U.S. 52 (Sagamore Parkway), proceed to the first stop light (Duncan Road), then turn left (south). Proceed to the next intersection and turn left (north) on Ninth Street Road. The proceed to Davis Ferry Park which is on the left (west) before you cross the Wabash River. Emergency medical service is available at hospitals in Lafayette.
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