Contact Information
c/o 27722 State Route 424
Defiance, OH 43512
419-784-3263
The natural confluence of the Maumee and Auglaize rivers, upstream from Independence Dam State Park, was a significant contributing factor for the development of northwestern Ohio. The waters of these two great rivers were a source of life for Indian and frontiersmen alike. Today, the rivers are a valuable natural resource for both industry and recreation. The Maumee River is the largest river in northwest Ohio and the second largest flowing into Lake Erie with 4,700 cubic feet per second. The scenic riverbanks support an abundance of woodland wildflowers including jewelweed, violets and spring beauties. A variety of colorful songbirds make their summer home in the park including scarlet tanagers, Louisiana water thrush and yellow-throated warblers. Furbearers including the fox squirrel, raccoon, skunk and woodchuck find the riparian habitat suitable.Independence Dam State Park encompasses 606 acres of land and 7 miles of river frontage.
There are 40 non-electric campsites suitable for tents and trailers. The campground offers drinking water, pit latrines, tables and fire rings. Camping with pets is permitted. A dump station is located by the marina.
Unlimited horsepower boating is permitted on the river. A marina and four-lane launch ramp are provided. Four miles of the river accommodates skiers. The river is excellent for canoeing. The Maumee River offers fine catches of northern pike, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish and an occasional walleye. A valid Ohio fishing license is required.
A three-mile hiking trail, once the towpath of the Miami and Erie Canal, offers the hiker a glimpse into the colorful past of Ohio's canal era. The trail meanders between the canal and the river through a dense hardwood forest. The three-mile access road through the park offers a scenic ride for bicyclists.
Numerous picnic tables are located along the tree-lined bank of the Maumee River. Grills, restrooms and drinking water are provided. Two shelters are available by reservation. The campground also has a shelter.
Outdoor enthusiasts can camp, boat, fish, hike, bike, picnic, view wildlife, and enjoy wildflowers at Independence Dam State Park. In winter, folks cross-country ski, sled and ice skate.
This state has four distinct seasons and a brilliant fall foliage display in it southern woods during mid October. Winter lasts from December through February with average temperatures near 25 degrees F. Low temperatures dip to single digits, but do not often drop below zero. Northern regions of the state receive average snowfall amounts of 55 inches, while the central and southern regions of the state receive lesser amounts with averages near 30 inches. This difference is caused by lake-affect moisture patterns.
Spring temperatures begin to warm the landscapes of Ohio by mid March and are in full swing by April. Temperatures range from 40 through 70 degrees F through the spring months. This season often brings the most rainfall, before the drying heat of summer. Summer can be extremely hot and humid in the interior of Ohio. Temperatures reach above 90 degrees F frequently through July and August. Cooler fall temperatures don't reach the region until mid to late September. This is a pleasant time to visit as the air is crisp with low humidity levels. Ohio's annual precipitation usually reaches slightly above 50 inches.
