A paddling experience that’s easy to jump into in Sandusky County
Ghoul Runnings operates as a kayak (and small watercraft) adventure business in Sandusky County. It’s built around many scenic stretches of the Sandusky River, mainly using sections from Ft. Seneca and running through Fremont, as well as more laid-back floats and fishing options on the Fremont Reservoir. They are a full-service, fully American Canoe Association (ACA)- certified kayak location that treats all its customers like VIPs! — All river adventure trips are guide-assisted, with transportation to and from the launch included, and generally last around 2 hours. The trip section available on the day of your trip is based solely on water condition safety for all paddlers’ skill levels, as well as on river and weather conditions for the day and time of your paddle. Your safety always comes first!
That VIP full-service approach matters on a river like the Sandusky. Some days you want a calm float and a nature fix; other days you want a little more structure, a planned route, and someone who knows the current, the conditions, and the best places to look for eagles or other river life. Ghoul Runnings explicitly leans into both, offering trips with set departure times and reservation guidance for river outings.
The river itself is truly the main attraction…
The Sandusky River in Fremont is a blend of gentle bends, tree-lined banks, and “blink and you’ll miss it” pockets of natural beauty—especially when you’re moving at kayak speed. You’re not just looking at the river; you’re inside it, drifting past overhanging branches, listening to birds, and catching reflections of bridges and shoreline greens.
For paddlers, one big plus is that the Sandusky River corridor around Fremont connects into a wider estuary network of access points and day-trip possibilities, which is why it’s long been popular for canoeing and kayaking.
And if you’re the kind of person who likes to plan (or just likes reassurance), Ghoul Runnings also promotes detailed Scenic Sandusky River maps that highlight launch/take-out points, hazard areas, and points of interest—useful whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat paddler trying to explore a new stretch.
Why it’s especially fun in Fremont…
Fremont gives the Sandusky River a great “mix”: you get nature and calm water vibes, but you’re also close to town—meaning you can paddle, then roll right into lunch, coffee, or a downtown stroll without turning it into an all-day expedition. That’s one reason the river is often described as both picturesque and well-suited to casual recreation.
If you’re thinking about access and rules, local park guidance also makes clear that the Sandusky River is designated an Ohio State Scenic River and that there are established launch areas (including at Steyer Nature Preserve), along with seasonal access information to help you decide when to go.
A local brand with a “Fremont personality” from certified instructor Bob and his wife, Beth Turner, local owners and operators.
Part of what makes Ghoul Runnings stand out is its local identity. Regional coverage notes that the business name was inspired by the owners’ long-running haunted attraction, Haunted Hydro, which has been a fall tradition for over 34 years. In other words, they didn’t arrive from out of nowhere—they’re rooted in the Fremont area’s culture, and they built a warm-weather outdoor experience that complements their well-known spooky-season footprint. It was a bunch of “Ghouls” who started the kayak business. The name was also given for their love of the 80’s Disney movie: “Cool Runnings” about the Jamaican Bobsled team that defied all odds and competed in the Winter Olympics in Calgary, CA.
That local connection shows up in the tone of what they do: it’s not just “rent a kayak.” It’s more like, “Come enjoy the outdoors here—this is our backyard and we want you to love it too.” Even their own description frames the mission around getting outside and making the most of the season.
What to expect on the water…
Most people find paddling the Sandusky River around Fremont approachable, but, like any river, conditions can change. Water level, wind, temperature, and debris after storms all affect how a trip feels. Even if you’re newer to kayaking or an old hand at kayaking/canoeing, a guide-assisted trip removes a lot of guesswork. Their crews are trained professionals and are there to make everyone’s experience a memorable and happy one!
Either way, the best “Ghoul Runnings day” usually looks like this… It is best to book a scheduled river trip online 24 hours to a couple days in advance if possible (SPECIAL NOTE: They require a minimum of 1-hour in advance – many trips are at times sold out!), dress for the weather, plan to get a little wet, bring sun protection, wear old tennis shoes or closed toed sandals are best and keep your phone secured (a dry bag is your best friend). Then give yourself permission to go slower than you think you should. On the Sandusky in Fremont, the point isn’t speed—it’s the feeling of floating through a living corridor of northwest Ohio nature, with the city close enough to rejoin whenever you’re ready. Let nature be your inspiration to paddle away your stress, one stroke at a time!
Last thoughts from Ghoul Runnings Kayak Adventures…
We operate Memorial Day Weekend through mid-September. Scheduled trips are offered mainly on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and most Holidays. Weekday trips can be requested and are based on guide availability. They also offer monthly full-moon night paddles, 4th of July Firework Floats with the best seat in the house to watch the Fireworks, pop-up paddle events, educational training and more. Groups and team-building activities for businesses are also a specialty of theirs. Gift Certificates are available as well.
Visit https://www.sanduskycounty.org/ to plan your Northwest Ohio adventure.
