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Q. Will you be having any changes in policy due to COVID-19?
A. Yes, please click HERE to read our COVID-19 policy.
A. Yes, please click HERE to read our COVID-19 policy.
| covid-19_policies_4.docx |
Q. What is the cancellation policy?
A. You can cancel your reservation for a full refund if done 12 hours in advance of your reservation by going to your emailed receipt and clicking "Modify Reservation" or "Manage this booking.
Q. How do I change my booking date?
A. You can change the time or date of your reservation up to 2 hours of your reservation by going to your emailed receipt and clicking "Modify Reservation" or "Manage this booking." Reservations times can not be modified if the booking time is within 2 hours and you will not receive a refund or date change.
Q. How do I cancel a trip(s) from my reserved group?
A. Unfortunately you can not cancel partial reservations. You will have to cancel the booking and re-book the desired quantity. If it is a busy weekend/holiday and you are afraid of losing your spots, we can modify your quantity if you contact us AT LEAST 2 hours in advance.
Q. I have a reservation today but I see it is supposed to be bad weather, can I get a refund or change my booking day?
A. You can change the time or date of your reservation up to 2 hours of your reservation by going to your emailed receipt and clicking "Modify Reservation" or "Manage this booking." Reservations times can not be modified if the booking time is within 2 hours and you will not receive a refund or date change.
You can cancel your reservation for a full refund if done 12 hours in advance of your reservation by going to your emailed receipt and clicking "Modify Reservation" or "Manage this booking.
Q. I see you are sold out for an upcoming day/time I want to go, is there any way you can squeeze me or a friend(s) in?
A. All of our bookings are handled online via our website at greenacrescanoe.com. You will have to reserve for another time or day. Due to the strict COVID-19 guidelines implemented by the state we are running at limited capacity and will not go over our restricted limit. You can go to your desired time and sign up for a wait-list, which notifies you of opened slots. This is the only way to possibly get a trip.
Q. I tried booking a trip and had a problem with the check-in process and now that day/time is sold out. How can I make it out?
A. All of our bookings are handled online via our website at greenacrescanoe.com. You will have to reserve for another time or day. Due to the strict COVID-19 guidelines implemented by the state we are running at limited capacity and will not go over our restricted limit. You can go to your desired time and sign up for a wait-list, which notifies you of opened slots. This is the only way to possibly get a trip.
Q. My group was able to book a time that is now sold out, can my friends book a later time and just come with us?
A. If your booking time is 30 minutes apart, for example; at 12:00 and your friends can book 12:30, just come at 12:45 and you will be fine. Time slots more than an hour apart will not work.
Q. I joined the wait-list and I got notified on an open spot but now it wont let me view it.
A. It was already taken by someone else on the wait-list.
Q. I cannot find my email confirmation?
A. Check your ALL MAIL. Perhaps it went into another folder such as your junk mail or spam folder. You have misspelled your email address. If this is the case, message us on Facebook if you want to modify your trip.
Q. If someone from our group doesn’t make it, do we get a refund?
A. We do not refund. You will need to be reimbursed by them.
Q. I am not sure if the booking transaction went through due to technical difficulties.
A. A successful booking will have a pending credit card transaction and a confirmation email.
Q. Will I get a refund if you are closed?
A. Yes, you will receive an automatic refund if we are closed due to high water.
Q. If the only time available is earlier or later than I’d like, can I arrive at my desired time and still get checked in?
A. No, the reservation process is to regulate the flow of customers due to COVID-19 guidelines. You must arrive within 15 minutes of your reservation.
Q. Do I really need to have an ID to check in?
A. Yes, the person that purchased the reservation must provide proof of who they are in the form of an ID or by using their receipt.
Q. Can I show a photo of my ID instead of bringing it with me?
A. Certainly!
Q. Is my minor teenager permitted to participate without me and I sign for them?
A. Yes, minors as young as 16 may participate with a waiver signed by a legal guardian. All minors must have a legal guardian signature on their waiver.
Q. Are children permitted, and if so, at what age?
A. Due to COVID-19, we are operating with restrictions. Participants must be a minimum of 13 years old to participate since we are only renting single-person kayaks on an 8-mile trip.
Q. When do you anticipate being able to reduce restrictions?
A. Unfortunately, we cannot predict that at this time due to COVID-19.
Q. Do you ever "Sell out"?
A. Yes, especially on weekends and holidays. Due to COVID-19, we are restricting our normal capacity.
Q. What kind of equipment do you have for rent?
A. Due to COVID-19, we will only renting single-person, sit-on-top style of kayaks until further notice.
Q: Can I bring my own equipment and use your shuttle bus service or use Green Acres’ property?
A: No, Due To Bus Transportation State Regulations and Insurance Liability, We Do Not Provide Transport Service Of Private Owned Watercraft. Our Passenger Buses Do Not Pull Trailers. We are compliant with government agencies. Our properties are privately-owned and are NOT available to use for river access and/or parking for non-customers.
Note: There is a public access at “Willow Park” (off of Campbell Road) and also at 5180 Lawrenceburg Road (near Bond Road) for persons with their own equipment. These accesses are located between our 8-mile launch-site & our livery take-out. Sorry, but our properties are privately owned and are not available to use for river access. In no condition are the launch-sites permitted for access. There will be a $25 dollar per person charge in the event that take-out is at the livery.
Q: What are the weight limits of your boats?
A: All weight limits are approximate. Sorry, but we will not be able to accommodate persons larger than 275lbs during these restrictions of operating with single-person kayaks.
Single Kayaks (small)- 230lbs
Single Kayaks (large) - 275lbs
Q: How often do the buses transport customers upriver?
A: Passenger buses run continuously. However, the LAST shuttle bus for 8-mile trip leaves at 1:00!! You must arrive no later than 12:30pm.
Q: Do you permit dogs and if so, is there a fee?
A: Due to COVID-19, we cannot be permit dogs due to state regulations.
Q: Are we allowed to bring coolers?
A: Coolers are permitted but must be small enough to fit on the kayak. Styrofoam coolers are not permitted because they will break and may get into the river. Please don’t bring glass bottles on the river. It is our policy that alcohol and boating do not mix. Floating coolers are not be permitted.
Q: How can I gauge my time or know where I am?
A: Take a free river map. The map shows landmarks such as our 3-mile launch site, the ‘Big Island’, creeks, Hamilton County Park property signs, gas lines, bridges, etc.
Q: What should we bring with us on our trip?
A: Check out our Helpful Tips to find out what is necessary and suggested. Just remember to wear comfortable clothing and footwear that can get wet. Bring a change of clothes and some extra money for snacks and souvenirs! Taking a cell phone is always a good idea but only if you have it in a dry box or a dry bag. We have both for sale. Ziploc bags are not enough to protect your phone.
Q: What is the average water temperature?
A: This varies but rest assured, we will not be opened for rentals if the water temperature is too cool for your safety.
Q: What are normal hours of operation?
A: We are open 7 days a week starting sometimes as early as April but generally in May and operate thru late September, depending upon the weather. Follow us on Facebook for daily reports. The first bus leaves at 10am on weekdays and the last bus leaves at 1pm. On weekends and holidays, the first bus leaves at 9am.
Q: Is there much wildlife along the Whitewater River?
A: Most definitely!! Arriving in the mornings will increase your chances for enjoying a peaceful, quiet day on the river. Keep in mind that weekends and holidays may be less peaceful due to the higher volume of customers. Expect to possibly see American Bald Eagle, Great Blue Heron, Green Heron, Osprey, Hawks, Kingfisher, Cliff Swallows, and Beaver, maybe an otter or muskrats among much more.
Q: Is there security present at Green Acres?
A: Green Acres has Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department hired for added security. The Sheriff's Department may also be present to remind folks to “Mind Their Manners” while on or off the water. Green Acres will NOT tolerate unruly behavior.
Q: Do you have lockers or what do we do with our keys, etc.?
A: Sorry, we do not have lockers, please lock your valuables in a hidden, concealed spot in your car or leave your precious personal items at home for extra safety. We advise not taking anything on the river that you can’t afford to lose or get wet. For your convenience, we have a variety of dry boxes and dry bags available for sale at an affordable price. (Green Acres is not responsible for lost, stolen, or misplaced items).
Q: What’s the average depth of the river?
A: The River averages at 2-4 feet deep for most of the trip. However, some spots can exceed 8-10 feet deep. On average water level days, you can literally walk most of the trip in knee deep to waist deep waters.
Q: Are there any rapids? What “class” are they?
A: Yes, there are spots with rapids during the upper half of the 8 mile river trip. The rapids are classified as Class I, which is the smallest class out of a 5 class scale. They are great rapids for beginners and still fun for the river veterans.
Q: Should I wear shoes?
A: Foot protection is very important. “Flip-flops” can easily fall off so the best are any water shoe, sandals with a heel strap, Croc-style shoes, or old sneakers. If you don’t have foot protection, we sell water shoes at our Store. The river bed oftentimes has rocks or shells that can be sharp or jagged. There can also be the possibility of broken glass or pieces of old metal. Foot protection will save your feet and make your trip more enjoyable.
Q: Do you have a clean-up area or changing rooms?
A: Yes, we have changing rooms available. We also have a customer clean-up area but do not have showers.
Q: Do you provide life jackets?
A: Yes, life jackets are issued to all persons and are included in the rental fee for your boat. Our life jackets are also sanitized after each use and hung up to dry.
Q: When do we need to be off of the river?
A: You must be off the river no later than 7:00pm unless it was stated to you otherwise by a Green Acres staff member. There is a $5 fee for every 15 minutes that you are late. If sunset arrives and you are still out, Green Acres may consider it an emergency and call for assistance. Green Acres has free river maps available for you to gauge your time.
Q: Do you have supplies available?
A: Yes, we have nearly anything imaginable in our retail store! Such as: water shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, towels, t-shirts, hats, eyeglass straps, can koozies, dry bags, dry boxes, super soakers, pain reliever, carabineers, bungee cords, etc.
Q: Do you sell alcoholic beverages or tobacco products?
A: No
Q: Do you have a picnic area, shelter or charcoal grills available?
A: Not available for the 2020 season due to COVID-19
Q: Is the Whitewater River clean?
A: According to the Ohio EPA, the Whitewater River has exceptional water quality, one of just three rivers in Ohio, making it the cleanest river in the tristate! This is one of the few large Ohio Rivers that has 100% attainment of aquatic life.
Q: In case of severe weather, what do we do?
A: There is shelter at our 3 mile put-in to be able to wait out a pop-up storm. We will also be more than happy to show you additional friendly areas on a river map that you can take with you. If you are in a desolate area we suggest you wait it out on an opened beach or remain in your boat on the water, staying AWAY from trees that may have falling branches. Please keep in mind that summer storms are generally over within a short time period and we cannot easily come and get you if you become frightened.
Q: What do we do if there is an emergency?
A: If it is a serious, life-threatening medical emergency call 911. If it is non-life threatening, please call us and we will assist you.
Q: For what reasons does the kayak livery close?
A: The canoe livery closes for high water or in too cold of conditions. We may limit the types of boats or ages of participants if water levels are higher than normal without closing. To check on water levels and to see if we have restrictions, please visit our website, Facebook or Twitter for our daily updates.
Q: Can I leave my vehicle overnight?
A: You are welcome to leave your vehicle overnight, but please leave your contact information.
A. You can cancel your reservation for a full refund if done 12 hours in advance of your reservation by going to your emailed receipt and clicking "Modify Reservation" or "Manage this booking.
Q. How do I change my booking date?
A. You can change the time or date of your reservation up to 2 hours of your reservation by going to your emailed receipt and clicking "Modify Reservation" or "Manage this booking." Reservations times can not be modified if the booking time is within 2 hours and you will not receive a refund or date change.
Q. How do I cancel a trip(s) from my reserved group?
A. Unfortunately you can not cancel partial reservations. You will have to cancel the booking and re-book the desired quantity. If it is a busy weekend/holiday and you are afraid of losing your spots, we can modify your quantity if you contact us AT LEAST 2 hours in advance.
Q. I have a reservation today but I see it is supposed to be bad weather, can I get a refund or change my booking day?
A. You can change the time or date of your reservation up to 2 hours of your reservation by going to your emailed receipt and clicking "Modify Reservation" or "Manage this booking." Reservations times can not be modified if the booking time is within 2 hours and you will not receive a refund or date change.
You can cancel your reservation for a full refund if done 12 hours in advance of your reservation by going to your emailed receipt and clicking "Modify Reservation" or "Manage this booking.
Q. I see you are sold out for an upcoming day/time I want to go, is there any way you can squeeze me or a friend(s) in?
A. All of our bookings are handled online via our website at greenacrescanoe.com. You will have to reserve for another time or day. Due to the strict COVID-19 guidelines implemented by the state we are running at limited capacity and will not go over our restricted limit. You can go to your desired time and sign up for a wait-list, which notifies you of opened slots. This is the only way to possibly get a trip.
Q. I tried booking a trip and had a problem with the check-in process and now that day/time is sold out. How can I make it out?
A. All of our bookings are handled online via our website at greenacrescanoe.com. You will have to reserve for another time or day. Due to the strict COVID-19 guidelines implemented by the state we are running at limited capacity and will not go over our restricted limit. You can go to your desired time and sign up for a wait-list, which notifies you of opened slots. This is the only way to possibly get a trip.
Q. My group was able to book a time that is now sold out, can my friends book a later time and just come with us?
A. If your booking time is 30 minutes apart, for example; at 12:00 and your friends can book 12:30, just come at 12:45 and you will be fine. Time slots more than an hour apart will not work.
Q. I joined the wait-list and I got notified on an open spot but now it wont let me view it.
A. It was already taken by someone else on the wait-list.
Q. I cannot find my email confirmation?
A. Check your ALL MAIL. Perhaps it went into another folder such as your junk mail or spam folder. You have misspelled your email address. If this is the case, message us on Facebook if you want to modify your trip.
Q. If someone from our group doesn’t make it, do we get a refund?
A. We do not refund. You will need to be reimbursed by them.
Q. I am not sure if the booking transaction went through due to technical difficulties.
A. A successful booking will have a pending credit card transaction and a confirmation email.
Q. Will I get a refund if you are closed?
A. Yes, you will receive an automatic refund if we are closed due to high water.
Q. If the only time available is earlier or later than I’d like, can I arrive at my desired time and still get checked in?
A. No, the reservation process is to regulate the flow of customers due to COVID-19 guidelines. You must arrive within 15 minutes of your reservation.
Q. Do I really need to have an ID to check in?
A. Yes, the person that purchased the reservation must provide proof of who they are in the form of an ID or by using their receipt.
Q. Can I show a photo of my ID instead of bringing it with me?
A. Certainly!
Q. Is my minor teenager permitted to participate without me and I sign for them?
A. Yes, minors as young as 16 may participate with a waiver signed by a legal guardian. All minors must have a legal guardian signature on their waiver.
Q. Are children permitted, and if so, at what age?
A. Due to COVID-19, we are operating with restrictions. Participants must be a minimum of 13 years old to participate since we are only renting single-person kayaks on an 8-mile trip.
Q. When do you anticipate being able to reduce restrictions?
A. Unfortunately, we cannot predict that at this time due to COVID-19.
Q. Do you ever "Sell out"?
A. Yes, especially on weekends and holidays. Due to COVID-19, we are restricting our normal capacity.
Q. What kind of equipment do you have for rent?
A. Due to COVID-19, we will only renting single-person, sit-on-top style of kayaks until further notice.
Q: Can I bring my own equipment and use your shuttle bus service or use Green Acres’ property?
A: No, Due To Bus Transportation State Regulations and Insurance Liability, We Do Not Provide Transport Service Of Private Owned Watercraft. Our Passenger Buses Do Not Pull Trailers. We are compliant with government agencies. Our properties are privately-owned and are NOT available to use for river access and/or parking for non-customers.
Note: There is a public access at “Willow Park” (off of Campbell Road) and also at 5180 Lawrenceburg Road (near Bond Road) for persons with their own equipment. These accesses are located between our 8-mile launch-site & our livery take-out. Sorry, but our properties are privately owned and are not available to use for river access. In no condition are the launch-sites permitted for access. There will be a $25 dollar per person charge in the event that take-out is at the livery.
Q: What are the weight limits of your boats?
A: All weight limits are approximate. Sorry, but we will not be able to accommodate persons larger than 275lbs during these restrictions of operating with single-person kayaks.
Single Kayaks (small)- 230lbs
Single Kayaks (large) - 275lbs
Q: How often do the buses transport customers upriver?
A: Passenger buses run continuously. However, the LAST shuttle bus for 8-mile trip leaves at 1:00!! You must arrive no later than 12:30pm.
Q: Do you permit dogs and if so, is there a fee?
A: Due to COVID-19, we cannot be permit dogs due to state regulations.
Q: Are we allowed to bring coolers?
A: Coolers are permitted but must be small enough to fit on the kayak. Styrofoam coolers are not permitted because they will break and may get into the river. Please don’t bring glass bottles on the river. It is our policy that alcohol and boating do not mix. Floating coolers are not be permitted.
Q: How can I gauge my time or know where I am?
A: Take a free river map. The map shows landmarks such as our 3-mile launch site, the ‘Big Island’, creeks, Hamilton County Park property signs, gas lines, bridges, etc.
Q: What should we bring with us on our trip?
A: Check out our Helpful Tips to find out what is necessary and suggested. Just remember to wear comfortable clothing and footwear that can get wet. Bring a change of clothes and some extra money for snacks and souvenirs! Taking a cell phone is always a good idea but only if you have it in a dry box or a dry bag. We have both for sale. Ziploc bags are not enough to protect your phone.
Q: What is the average water temperature?
A: This varies but rest assured, we will not be opened for rentals if the water temperature is too cool for your safety.
Q: What are normal hours of operation?
A: We are open 7 days a week starting sometimes as early as April but generally in May and operate thru late September, depending upon the weather. Follow us on Facebook for daily reports. The first bus leaves at 10am on weekdays and the last bus leaves at 1pm. On weekends and holidays, the first bus leaves at 9am.
Q: Is there much wildlife along the Whitewater River?
A: Most definitely!! Arriving in the mornings will increase your chances for enjoying a peaceful, quiet day on the river. Keep in mind that weekends and holidays may be less peaceful due to the higher volume of customers. Expect to possibly see American Bald Eagle, Great Blue Heron, Green Heron, Osprey, Hawks, Kingfisher, Cliff Swallows, and Beaver, maybe an otter or muskrats among much more.
Q: Is there security present at Green Acres?
A: Green Acres has Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department hired for added security. The Sheriff's Department may also be present to remind folks to “Mind Their Manners” while on or off the water. Green Acres will NOT tolerate unruly behavior.
Q: Do you have lockers or what do we do with our keys, etc.?
A: Sorry, we do not have lockers, please lock your valuables in a hidden, concealed spot in your car or leave your precious personal items at home for extra safety. We advise not taking anything on the river that you can’t afford to lose or get wet. For your convenience, we have a variety of dry boxes and dry bags available for sale at an affordable price. (Green Acres is not responsible for lost, stolen, or misplaced items).
Q: What’s the average depth of the river?
A: The River averages at 2-4 feet deep for most of the trip. However, some spots can exceed 8-10 feet deep. On average water level days, you can literally walk most of the trip in knee deep to waist deep waters.
Q: Are there any rapids? What “class” are they?
A: Yes, there are spots with rapids during the upper half of the 8 mile river trip. The rapids are classified as Class I, which is the smallest class out of a 5 class scale. They are great rapids for beginners and still fun for the river veterans.
Q: Should I wear shoes?
A: Foot protection is very important. “Flip-flops” can easily fall off so the best are any water shoe, sandals with a heel strap, Croc-style shoes, or old sneakers. If you don’t have foot protection, we sell water shoes at our Store. The river bed oftentimes has rocks or shells that can be sharp or jagged. There can also be the possibility of broken glass or pieces of old metal. Foot protection will save your feet and make your trip more enjoyable.
Q: Do you have a clean-up area or changing rooms?
A: Yes, we have changing rooms available. We also have a customer clean-up area but do not have showers.
Q: Do you provide life jackets?
A: Yes, life jackets are issued to all persons and are included in the rental fee for your boat. Our life jackets are also sanitized after each use and hung up to dry.
Q: When do we need to be off of the river?
A: You must be off the river no later than 7:00pm unless it was stated to you otherwise by a Green Acres staff member. There is a $5 fee for every 15 minutes that you are late. If sunset arrives and you are still out, Green Acres may consider it an emergency and call for assistance. Green Acres has free river maps available for you to gauge your time.
Q: Do you have supplies available?
A: Yes, we have nearly anything imaginable in our retail store! Such as: water shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, towels, t-shirts, hats, eyeglass straps, can koozies, dry bags, dry boxes, super soakers, pain reliever, carabineers, bungee cords, etc.
Q: Do you sell alcoholic beverages or tobacco products?
A: No
Q: Do you have a picnic area, shelter or charcoal grills available?
A: Not available for the 2020 season due to COVID-19
Q: Is the Whitewater River clean?
A: According to the Ohio EPA, the Whitewater River has exceptional water quality, one of just three rivers in Ohio, making it the cleanest river in the tristate! This is one of the few large Ohio Rivers that has 100% attainment of aquatic life.
Q: In case of severe weather, what do we do?
A: There is shelter at our 3 mile put-in to be able to wait out a pop-up storm. We will also be more than happy to show you additional friendly areas on a river map that you can take with you. If you are in a desolate area we suggest you wait it out on an opened beach or remain in your boat on the water, staying AWAY from trees that may have falling branches. Please keep in mind that summer storms are generally over within a short time period and we cannot easily come and get you if you become frightened.
Q: What do we do if there is an emergency?
A: If it is a serious, life-threatening medical emergency call 911. If it is non-life threatening, please call us and we will assist you.
Q: For what reasons does the kayak livery close?
A: The canoe livery closes for high water or in too cold of conditions. We may limit the types of boats or ages of participants if water levels are higher than normal without closing. To check on water levels and to see if we have restrictions, please visit our website, Facebook or Twitter for our daily updates.
Q: Can I leave my vehicle overnight?
A: You are welcome to leave your vehicle overnight, but please leave your contact information.
- Suggestions from the Lutz family
- You are welcome to leave your vehicle overnight to ride home with others, but please let us know so we aren’t out looking for you!
- Never take a cell phone that is not in a waterproof container! We have affordable dry boxes and dry bags available for sale. Ziploc baggies do not float and are generally not waterproof.
- Never dive head first, check the water depth and also look for debris in the water so you don’t impale yourself on a branch! We also do not suggest jumping. There have been numerous injuries caused from jumping into too shallow of water.
- Never tie boats or tubes together with our life jackets because it rips them and we hate to have to charge you. Remember that tying together creates a safety hazard!
- Be back on time so we can go home! We hate to charge a late fee or call water rescue to look for you.
- Remind your friends to “Mind Their Manners”! Unruly persons are not welcome at Green Acres. We reserve the right to ban someone for bad behavior and/or have them removed from the river and cited. Always expect children to be present. Be respectful!!
- Please take one of our free reusable garbage bag! We are proud of our exceptionally clean river!
- Children will be rewarded for being a “Litter Gitter!"