Houchins Ferry
The westernmost car ferry and boat launch on the Green River.
Plan Around Houchins Ferry
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Houchins Ferry Details
Houchins Ferry is the westernmost boat launch along the Green River, serving as a great take-out point for visitors coming from Green River Ferry or Dennison Ferry. This is also the location of one of the park's two ferries that carry cars across the river. Paddlers putting in at Houchins Ferry are encouraged to avoid Lock and Dam No. 6 by either traveling upstream from Houchins Ferry or upstream on the Nolin River. There is a picnic area and campground nearby. Twenty-five miles of the Green River pass through Mammoth Cave National Park, offering incredible views of bluffs, trees, and wildlife. The Green River averages 200 feet wide and 10 feet deep (however some parts of the river can be much deeper). The river typically runs at five miles per hour, offering pleasant canoeing conditions without whitewater. During flood conditions water can travel much faster, however. Boaters should always be alert to hazards like submerged trees and rocks, drifting debris, and the park's ferries. Be sure to pick up a copy of the Backcountry Map & Guide at the Visitor Center before embarking on your trip. When river levels are at or exceed 10 feet, launching watercraft is strongly discouraged due to strong, swift-moving currents that pose a hazard to safety. Outfitters with permits to operate in the park are prohibited from renting or providing canoes during these times. To inquire about current river levels, call 270-758-2417.
Difficulty
Low
Distance
N/A
Estimated time
N/A
Region
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Nearby Parks Around Houchins Ferry
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Nearby Points of Interest Around Houchins Ferry
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Houchins Ferry while the map context is still fresh.
0.1 mi away
Houchin Ferry Campground
Houchin Ferry is a small first-come, first-served campground.
1.5 mi away
Ferry Road Parking Area
The Ferry Road parking area can be found along Houchins Ferry Road, just north of the Nolin River.
1.6 mi away
First Creek Trail
This point-to-point hike offers an easy multi-day trip, thanks to its access to three backcountry campsites and First Creek Lake.
1.9 mi away
Brownsville
Brownsville offers multiple paddling outfitters, but is hard to access from the park.
2.4 mi away
McCoy Hollow Trail
You can access several backcountry trails and campsites on this meandering trail along the bluffs of the Green River.
