Buena Vista to Wallace Marine Park

You can break this trip up in a few ways and make it a one night or two night adventure with scenic views as well as optional side trips to historic downtown Independence with its new padder and cyclist friendly campsite right next to the river*, as well as the nearby new botique Hotel Independence which offers a restaurant patio with a wonderful view. (*note- the campsite in Independence Riverview Park is closed as of 7/9/2020 due to the COVID crisis).

A touring stye canoe or kayak is a great option for this reach. You’ll experience moving water/current and there will be places where you will need to “read the water” to decide which way around an island to paddle (look to see where most of the water is moving and where there are no hazards).

There is a pit toilet at Buena Vista, and the next available restroom is not until Independence Riverview Park. You can enjoy several great camping options along this reach as well as a fun side trip to historic downtown Independence.

Launch at Buena Vista’s historic Ferry. The back channel of Wells Island immediately on your left is beautiful, but often has wood debris. Explore this route only if you can confidently recognize hazards and swiftly maneuver your boat in current, otherwise stick to the main stem, which is also lovely. Camp at American Bottom on river left, or paddle further downstream to Judson Rocks or Murphy Bar – both which are rustic sites, but one’s that do offer enough open space to pitch a tent, and to gain a sweet view of the river. Sidney Access, listed on the first edition of the WT Maps, is no longer a viable campsite option. If you’re not interested in cooking for yourself, be sure to camp in downtown Independence’s new paddler/cyclist camp site in Riverview Park (sites are first come first serve). From here have a number of food and beverage options that you can walk to on historic main street, or the new boutique hotel Independence on the river. In the summer, Independence hosts concerts in the park, so check to see what their schedule is if you are interested in timing your visit  to enjoy or avoid that! Paddle to Wallace Marine Park the next day.