525-acre Independence Dam State Park is situated along the banks of the beautiful Maumee River. The river is ideal for boating, fishing or a scenic canoe trip.

History:

The natural confluence of the Maumee and Auglaize rivers, upstream from Independence Dam State Park, was a significant contributing factor for the development of northwestern Ohio. The waters of these two great rivers were a source of life for Indian and frontiersmen alike. Today, the rivers are a valuable natural resource for both industry and recreation.

This was a rich hunting and fishing area for the American Indian. Tribes residing in the dense hardwood forests included the Hopewell, Erie, Iroquois, Miami, Shawnee, Wyandot, Delaware and Ottawa. The most famous Indian of this area was Pontiac, an Ottawa chief. It is believed he was born near the junction of the two rivers in 1712. He is remembered for the infamous "Pontiac's Conspiracy," a rebellion of Indian tribes against trade policies in 1763.

Blue Jacket, a great Shawnee war chief, made his home near the banks of these same rivers in the late 1700s. In 1793, a "Grand Indian Council," the greatest assembly of tribal representatives on the North American Continent, was also held here. The council convened with the determination to stop the American westward expansion.

At this time, President Washington decided that Indian power needed to be reduced. President Washington chose General Anthony Wayne to lead forces into the northwest. General Wayne's victory in the carefully planned battle, opened the territory to a great wave of settlers.

Homesteaders came on horseback, on foot and in ox-drawn wagons, moving north along the wilderness trails. State Route 424 now follows the narrow military trail used by General Wayne.

Camping:

25 non-electric for tents only; 5 of these are designated for walk-in customers.
Located along the Maumee River
Non-potable water
Picnic table and fire ring at each site
Pets allowed on all sites. Pets must be leashed at all times.
Latrines located nearby

Activities

Boating

Unlimited horsepower boating is permitted on the river. A marina and 4-lane launch ramp are provided. Four miles of the river accommodates skiers. The river is excellent for canoeing and kayaking.

Fishing

The Maumee River offers fine catches of northern pike, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish and an occasional walleye. A valid Ohio fishing license is required.

Picnicking

Numerous picnic tables are located along the tree-lined bank of the Maumee River. Grills and restrooms are provided.

Trails

A 3-mile hiking trail, once the towpath of the Miami and Erie Canal, offers the hiker a glimpse into the colorful past of Ohio's canal era. The trail meanders between the canal and the river through a dense hardwood forest.

A 3-mile access road through the park offers a scenic ride for bicyclists is also handicap accessible.

Winter Recreation

Under the proper winter conditions, park guests can enjoy cross-country skiing.


Playground
Volleyball
Birdwatching
Historical Marker