The South Bass Island Put-in-Bay Kayak Rendezvous at Put-in-Bay Ohio is the premier kayaking gathering on Lake Erie. Join more than 100 kayakers from the tri-state area and beyond for a weekend of paddling, camping, socializing and exploring the islands located in the western basin of Lake Erie.
Each year on the second weekend after Memorial Day, paddlers have descended upon the South Bass Island State Park for this annual gathering. This paddler organized event brings kayakers together for a fun weekend. Safety is our utmost concern and paddlers are encouraged to plan their own water based activities, but join our land based social functions.
There are countless paddling opportunities among the islands of the Western Basin. For beginners at the kayak rendezvous, there are paddling opportunities within the Put-in-Bay Harbor, for intermediate paddlers, there are miles of island coastline to paddle and for experienced paddlers there are dozens of open water crossings between islands to explore. See our paddling page for destination ideas for your weekend.
South Bass Island is a perfect paddling location for kayakers who want to rough it at the State Park or for those who like to be close to civilization. Put-in-Bay Kayak Rendezvous paddlers come from all walks of life so many Put-in-Bay lodging options are available. The amenities at the State Park are excellent, the views from the cliff-side campsites are amazing, and downtown Put-in-Bay is a close walk or shuttle drive.
Kayak Rendezvous paddlers can make the crossing from the mainland or they can take the Miller Ferry. If the weather turns, the Miller Ferry is an excellent safety gap for the return trip to the mainland. Most of all, come, paddle, socialize and experience the wonderful gem we call the Erie Islands!
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