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This Grove City Canoe Livery Just Sold for $440,000. What’s Next For Trapper John’s?

Trapper John’s Canoe Livery, a cherished local staple along Big Darby Creek in Grove City, has officially changed hands. The property, long operated by the Kaufman family, was sold earlier this month for $440,000 to an entity named Trapper John’s Real Estate, according to Franklin County property records. The sale includes the three-acre parcel on Harrisburg Georgesville Road, where canoeing and kayaking trips down the scenic Big Darby Creek come to an end.

For more than 50 years, Trapper John’s Canoe Livery has provided outdoor adventurers with access to the tranquil waters of Big Darby Creek, a state and national scenic river known for its unique biodiversity. It’s been a go-to destination for those looking to enjoy a peaceful paddle while taking in the natural beauty of one of central Ohio’s most pristine waterways.

The beauty of the Big Darby

The livery had been the only commercial operation allowed on the creek under a 1993 agreement, ensuring that the family-run business held a special place in both local recreation and conservation efforts. The Nature Conservancy recognizes Big Darby Creek as “one of the most biologically diverse aquatic systems in the Midwest” due to its rich variety of species, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth.

trapper johns canoe livery
via Facebook

Jason Kaufman, whose family had operated the livery for decades, announced back in May that they would be stepping away from the business. “Running the river was a blessing and a true joy in my life,” Kaufman told the Dispatch at the time. Citing unforeseen circumstances, Kaufman made the decision to move on and place the beloved business up for sale, hoping its legacy would continue under new ownership.

As of now, it remains unclear what the new owners have planned for the site.

Still, the community holds hope that Trapper John’s will remain a gateway for visitors to enjoy one of Ohio’s most scenic natural escapes. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or someone new to the sport, the beauty of Big Darby Creek will no doubt continue to draw people in—no matter who holds the reins.

This sale marks the end of an era for the Kaufman family, but for Trapper John’s Canoe Livery, it may just be the beginning of a new adventure.