Clinton Township OKs Budd Park as Access Point for Clinton River Canoe, Kayak Trips

Canoe and kayak enthusiasts can pick up the current in Clinton Township this spring as Frank H. Budd Park becomes a launch point for trips down the Clinton River.

The township board approved a one-year agreement Monday with Clinton River Canoe & Kayak Rentals to use the park, located at 19000 Clinton River Rd., to access the Clinton River for its canoe and kayak trips.

"I think this is a perfect fit for Clinton Township," said Trustee Dean Reynolds. "I know our county executive wants to do things like this in Macomb County because families drive three, four, five hours to go canoeing when you could just go canoeing here. I’m excited and I’ll tell you as soon as it warms up, I’m going to be there with my family."

Under the agreement, CRCK would be permitted to place a removable matt on the riverbank for easy launching, but be required to remove all equipment and any business-related refuse or debris at the end of each workday. The company would also have to comply with Michigan Department of Environmental Quality regulations.

In lieu of any additional fees, CRCK will maintain the river from Budd Park through drop-off points in Mount Clemens.

The agreement goes into effect March 1 and ends Nov. 1, although it is subject to cancellation by the township or CRCK with 30 days notice.

The Budd Park route, which continues through downtown Mount Clemens, is designed for canoe and kayak beginners, as this section of the Clinton River has a very slow current and a greater width, according to CRCK's website.

CRCK offers trips daily from April through October.

Clinton Township residents can expect to see canoe and kayak trips in the spring Parks & Recreation brochure.