Mary Burleson
Contributing Writer
The Eaton Rapids Outdoor Recreation Center (ER ORC), located at Mill Pointe Park, is open and ready for its many summer customers. There is no better place to have fun in the sun than paddling the Grand River. Whether you are floating solo or with a group of friends and family, check out all the opportunities the ER ORC has to offer.
Starting next week, the Eaton Rapids Outdoor Recreation Center will be open Friday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. While tubes aren’t available this year due to the low water level, customers are able to rent kayaks or canoes at a very affordable rate. Paddlers can choose a two-hour trip to Bunker Road Landing, with the last trip departing at 5 p.m. Or they can opt for a four hour trip to McNamara Landing, which leaves no later than 3 p.m. The ER ORC will pick up customers, as well as their equipment, at the landings no later than 7 p.m. and return them to Mill Pointe Park.
Downtown Discovery Paddles are fun and free upcoming events sponsored by the Eaton Rapids Outdoor Recreation Center in partnership with the River Recreation Subcommittee. This is a great opportunity to try kayaking for the first time, or for those looking for a low-cost way to get outside and be active. The free paddles will last twenty minutes. This recurring event begins on Thursday, June 17 from 5 to 7 p.m. The location will rotate between McArthur River Park and the Martin Hansen Amphitheatre, so check the ORC’s Facebook page weekly to “discover” their location!
This season has already been very busy for the Eaton Rapids Outdoor Recreation Center. They recommend interested paddlers to reserve their boat of choice up to a week ahead of time. Give them a call at 517-719-0287 to book today or ask questions. Also follow their Facebook page @ERORC for more information on exciting upcoming summer and fall events.
