Portage River, Main/Middle Branch Access

**Location & Facilities**
Located in Port Clinton, Ottawa County, the Portage River Wildlife Access provides a concrete boat ramp (16 feet wide) for launching kayaks, canoes, and small motorboats onto the Portage River. The site is situated near downtown Port Clinton and offers convenient access to this scenic waterway that flows through northwestern Ohio.

**Paddling Opportunities**
The Portage River is popular for recreational paddling and fishing, with the access point serving as a gateway to explore the river's wildlife-rich environment. The area is adjacent to the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge and surrounding wetlands—remnants of Ohio's historic Great Black Swamp. Paddlers can expect a relatively calm, scenic river experience with good opportunities for wildlife viewing. For those interested in area history, Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial is nearby on Put-in-Bay, commemorating the War of 1812.

**Planning Your Visit**
Before launching, check current water conditions and river levels. Additional boat ramps are available in the area, including the newer ramp in downtown Oak Harbor and the Little Portage Wildlife Area (approximately 20 feet wide with a gravel lot). Contact the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center (open Thursday-Sunday, 10am-4pm) for additional information about paddling conditions and wildlife viewing opportunities.