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 (for a fee) at a
private camp 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. For a shorter trip it
is possible to take out at the boat ramp (for a fee) at a private camp,
River Junction, at the confluence of the Tippecanoe and Wabash Rivers
(on the left bank of the Wabash across from the mouth of the Tippecanoe).
The put-in site is at the SR 18 bridge over the river, approximately
4 1/2 miles west of the intersection of SR 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 SR 18 and go right (southwest) on
SR 25 to Lafayette. Turn right (west) on US 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.