Creating Community Through Creeks and Rivers

By Josh Rodamer Sweet Owen Contributor

Nestled in the rolling hills of Central Kentucky, Elkhorn Creek twists and winds its way toward Owen County, depositing its precious water into the Kentucky River south of Swallowfield at Still Waters Campground. The dichotomy of water—both providing and plundering—was on full display this spring for communities within the Kentucky River Basin. Much like fire, water is an element humans have long tried to harness for travel, recreation, and life itself, yet it remains subject to its relentless force. As recovery efforts continue, it can be easy to forget the life rivers bring—to overlook the gifts bestowed on communities along their banks.

One of those blessings for Owen Countians is Canoe Kentucky, a small family-owned business along Elkhorn Creek. The company was born in 1981 when a passerby stopped at the home of the late Ed and Bess Council and asked if a canoe on the property was available for rent. That inquiry sparked the idea for Elkhorn Excursions, which operated from the Councils’ kitchen table until 1995, when Canoe Kentucky opened its doors in the old Peaks Mill Grocery and Gas building.

Today, Canoe Kentucky still runs a rental business on the Elkhorn, but its community-focused vision has allowed it to blossom into a Kentucky treasure. Owners Nathan and Allison Depenbrock say they live out Matthew 7:12—”Do to others whatever you would have them do to you”—by promoting safe participation, respect, kindness, and love of the outdoors. “Canoe Kentucky uses those values to help others paddle their way into the same feelings for the outdoors of Kentucky,” they explain.

I sat down with General Manager Kali Sanders to talk creeks, canoes, kayaks and community. Sanders is in her ninth season with Canoe Kentucky, having started as an intern on an overnight student camping trip along the Green River. She recalled how impactful the experience was, watching students struggle with homesickness, then become grounded and rejuvenated by the activities and beauty of being on the water. A few staff members at Canoe Kentucky started as camp attendees and found a special community that kept bringing them back.

Canoe Kentucky offers several camp and student programs for schools and the public. While school is in session, classes can occur on the water, whether for physical education or science. The company employs an environmental educator to help young explorers study macroinvertebrates, rocks, trees, and the many fish species in Elkhorn Creek and the Kentucky River. Some schools even offer paddling experiences as part of reward programs. Sanders noted that the Kentucky River Downtown Paddle in Frankfort provides a unique opportunity for city residents to experience paddling without needing to travel to Peaks Mill.

Families in and around Owen County will find that a trip on the Elkhorn through Canoe Kentucky often costs less than attending a major sporting event, without the stress of traveling to Cincinnati, Louisville, or Lexington. While spring and early summer typically offer the best paddling conditions, there are few better ways to spend the dog days of summer than on a quiet creek.

It’s not just the paddling that draws people to Elkhorn Creek in summer. For many, it’s also a great seasonal job. Owen County resident Becky Michels spent five seasons working at Canoe Kentucky and took pride in helping others enjoy their time on the water. She also enjoyed learning about the various kayak types and which were best suited for different conditions. “Canoe Kentucky invites urban and rural neighbors to enjoy the beauty of Elkhorn Creek for all it has to offer,” Michels said.

“We’re a family-centric atmosphere here,” Sanders explained. “We don’t promote the party scene. We can help people who are new or nervous about paddle sports—nature provides the rest!” That morning, the view from Canoe Kentucky’s covered porch revealed crystal-clear water, a great blue heron fishing, and two Canadian geese squawking nearby. The sun danced on the water as it bent sharply to the right upstream. Downstream, a gravel bar split the Elkhorn, providing two inviting paths for paddlers. “The turtles will be out on the logs with the sun out,” Sanders added, glancing toward the water.

In addition to rentals and camps, Canoe Kentucky’s retail store offers nearly everything a paddler might need, from boats and boots to snacks and shirts. The company also participates in regional events to promote safety, education, and training in paddle sports.

For full details about rentals and programs, visit CanoeKY.com. Or better yet, stop in to chat with the staff. I hope you’ll find time this summer to head beyond the woods and waters of Owen County and visit our friends on the Elkhorn at Canoe Kentucky.