05/26/2026
Warm weather means more time on the water!
Whether you’re enjoying the main Licking River, the South Fork Licking River, Kincaid Lake, or other area waterways, please check conditions before you go.
Water levels can change quickly, especially after experiencing heavy rains like we've been seen this past week. High water, swift currents, hidden debris, fallen trees, rocks, and low-head dams can create dangerous situations for paddlers, anglers, swimmers, and boaters.
Pendleton County has a low-head dam on the South Fork of the Licking River, and during high water it may not be visible.
And of course, once the weather clears up and water levels are safe for paddling, contact Thaxton's Canoe Trails & Paddlers' Inn to plan your next trip on the river.
Before heading out:
✔️ Check current water levels and weather
✔️ Have a properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for everyone on board
✔️ Remember: children younger than 12 must wear a life jacket while underway in the open portion of a boat
✔️ We strongly recommend everyone wear a life jacket anytime they are on or near the water
✔️ Never paddle, swim, or boat in high or fast-moving water
✔️ Watch for hidden debris, fallen trees, rocks, and low-head dams
✔️ Let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return
✔️ When in doubt, stay out
Helpful water-level resources:
NOAA Licking River at Falmouth Gauge:
https://water.noaa.gov/gauges/flmk2
Pendleton County Flood Mapper:
https://pendletoncounty.ky.gov/Pages/Flood-Mapper.aspx
USGS Kentucky Water Data:
https://waterdata.usgs.gov/state/kentucky/
Be safe, have fun, and respect the water.
