After many years of development, the dreams of Chris Jackson’s are starting to flow, much to the delight of guests at Great Miami Adventures. While the river might be calm, there are enough options available to create a flurry of activity. “It’s not just a canoe business, there are kayaks, hydro bikes, flat bottom fishing boats, tubes and a couple inflatable kayaks,” Jackson said.

A resident at the home base of Great Miami Adventures, 1995 Ross Road, for 12 years, Jackson is anxious to put the area to use. He sees potential in both the water and the surrounding land for a new place to enjoy the day.

There are large tents to host parties or any type of special events for which  Jackson will work to fulfill any of the customer’s needs. An area for volleyball is available, as well as a half mile of land along the river and all the recreational water equipment to use. “I want to keep a family oriented atmosphere, parents can come and enjoy the day on the river with their children,” he said.

Beyond families, Jackson also hopes to attract businesses for corporate events and team building opportunities to get office executives out from behind the desk and into a boat for the first time. Scout Troops and any other type of group are welcome. A variety of different trips down the river are offered; Route 41 to Ross Road (Great Miami Adventures), Tipp City Livery to Ross Road, Tipp City Livery to Taylorsville Dam, Ross Road to Taylorsville Dam and a tube trip, also from Ross Road to the Taylorsville Dam, is a nice, easy ride that beginners and children can handle.

Ideas are constantly swimming in Jackson’s head to fully utilize the surroundings and attract guests. He plans to offer guides for fishing and classes on skipping rocks.

With a history in the restaurant industry, Jackson previously managed Sutmiller’s, a former Dayton eatery, and also plans to cater for the private events held on the property.

“I’m thinking about bringing back some of Sutmiller’s old menu items. A lot of people remember their turtle soup,” he said. Jackson also owns his own cement company which does the cementing for many of the major window companies, though now he’s ready to ground himself in Great Miami Adventures.

When summer is over, Jackson has no plans to let the activities dry up but wants to make it a three-season destination. In the fall, he’s going to have hayrides and perhaps a pumpkin patch along the river. “It’s beautiful around here in the fall,” he said. Activities are also being considered for during the winter months. To make his dreams come true, Jackson has been blessed with the help of his family, including seven brothers and sisters, nephews and his two daughters, Kayte and Sydney.

The grand opening is August 16, when Great Miami Adventures will officially set sail. Gander Mountain will be there and allow guests to test different canoes and kayaks.

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