You can find out more about the Ohio River Water Trail, which has been expanding in recent years, on the NRT Database and the Ohio River Trail Council website . Stretching … Beginning on the southwest side of the city, this 84-mile river offers up to class II waters as it meanders southeast of Columbus. Water Levels: 7 feet at Darbyville Gage. It is excellent with descriptions and maps. Head south about 5 miles to Scioto Darby Creek Rd and turn left. Columbus Located centrally in the state, the Columbus area offers Big Darby Creek. The Big Darby Creek is just one of four National Scenic Rivers in Ohio. US Hwy 40 near West Jefferson is one of those access sites. Weather: Foggy with highs in the 50's guest-paddler, ohiodnr.com/watercraft/streams/bigdarby/tabid/2409/Default.aspx. There is wildlife at every bend in the river. Exploring and fly fishing for smallmouth bass, rock bass, or panfish is just one way for you to experience the river near the Prairie Oaks Metro Park. Fishing on Big Darby Creek in August 2013. On Saturday, the Big Darby Creek was 10 feet above flood stage. No fees or permits required. At high water levels, there are numerous strainers, sweeps and log jams that are difficult to navigate through or around. Both access sites have ample parking and easy access to the creek. Most paddlers in the Columbus area know this creek and have paddled it at least once. Big Darby Creek is a scenic river located in northwestern central Ohio, and an important tributary to the Lower Scioto River.The river's major tributary is the Little Darby Creek.. For those of you who are like me and like exploring other creeks nearby for future trips, please be aware that there is another creek nearby known as the Little Darby Creek. Roadside Rest in Plain City, Ohio to State Canoe Access off Amity Rd. It was the start of a drought year in central Ohio and the creek was very low. Creek, visit ODNR and click on boating numerous strainers, sweeps log! 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