06/11/2026
Sugar Creek is one of Indiana's greatest natural treasures, but it's important to remember that it deserves our respect.
This recent incident is a powerful reminder that conditions on the creek can change quickly, especially when water levels are high. Fallen trees, strong currents, cold water, and remote locations can create dangerous situations even for experienced paddlers.
As you enjoy Sugar Creek this summer, please wear a properly fitted life jacket, check water conditions before you go, and NEVER underestimate the power of moving water!
Only experienced canoeists and kayakers should be on the creek when the water level is between 5 and 6 feet, with levels above 6 feet being hazardous and unsafe for canoeing or kayaking.
Did you know…? USGS installed a stream gauge near the Lafayette Avenue bridge by the Old Coke Plant canoe launch. Visit our website to check the water levels before hitting the water, or follow the local canoe rental businesses for frequent updates:
▪️ www.friendsofsugarcreek.org
▪️ Sugar Creek Campground & Canoe Rentals
▪️ Sugar Valley Canoes Kayaks & Tubes
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 11, 2026
Crawfordsville Fire Department Responds to Sugar Creek Water Rescue
CRAWFORDSVILLE (June 11, 2026) – On June 10, 2026, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the Crawfordsville Fire Department was dispatched to Sugar Creek for a reported water rescue. A resident living along the creek reported witnessing two kayaks capsize, leaving two individuals in the water.
Rescue operations were initiated with personnel positioned at both the Rock River Ridge Road creek access point and the Yountsville Bridge. Fire Department water rescue crews launched rescue watercraft from the Yountsville access and traveled upstream to search for individuals who may have been in distress.
The two kayakers initially observed capsizing were able to safely self-rescue before reaching the Rock River Ridge access point. Upon making contact with responders, they reported that eight additional members of their group were farther downstream and potentially in need of assistance.
During the search, water rescue personnel located one individual trapped in a strainer and quickly conducted a successful rescue. The individual was transported to the Yountsville access point for evaluation. A second person was also assisted by rescue crews on the water.
It was later determined that a total of nine individuals had been kayaking on Sugar Creek. Aside from the two people assisted by rescue personnel, the remaining members of the group were able to safely exit the water without further intervention.
All individuals involved, as well as rescue personnel, were accounted for and safely off the water by approximately 4:45 p.m.
The Crawfordsville Fire Department was assisted by the Montgomery County Central Communications Center, Crawfordsville Police Department, Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, Indiana Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officers, and area residents who provided valuable access and information during the incident.
The Crawfordsville Fire Department reminds all recreational users of Sugar Creek and other waterways to wear properly fitted life jackets, monitor water conditions, and use caution around natural hazards such as strainers, which can pose significant dangers even to experienced paddlers.
