The French Creek launch makes it easy for paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes to explore the Black River.  Installed in 2011 by the Lorain County Metro Parks through a grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources the launch pad features rollers and racks that allow outdoor enthusiasts to pull their boats in and out of the water.

Located on Old Colorado Avenue off State Route 611 at the corner of Lake Breeze Road and Colorado Avenue in Sheffield Village the launch pad is just five minutes off Route 90 and is conveniently located for paddlers from Northeast Ohio, Cleveland, and the West Side suburbs.

These excursions are always an adventure as paddlers enjoy the natural scenic beauty of the Black River watershed, the interesting industrial views of the Lorain Steel Mill, passing under multiple bridges, exiting out to Lake Erie at the historic Lorain Lighthouse, and landing on the beach at Lakeview Park.

You will pass a large Blue Heron rookery, might see some deer, turtles, or Bald Eagles, maybe even a Great Lakes freighter and you are always ensured an excellent workout for the mind, body, and soul.

These are the best paddle board excursions in Ohio and rival any we have seen throughout the Great Lakes region.