Brookport

The Brookport boat ramp provides public access to the Ohio River in Massac County, Illinois, positioning paddlers and boaters near Pool 52 (Locks and Dam No. 52), located approximately 939 river miles below Pittsburgh. This access point is ideal for boaters familiar with large river conditions, as the Ohio River at this location is a major waterway with significant flow and traffic. The river maintains an average velocity of 7 feet per second with substantial discharge, so paddlers should be prepared for swift current and expect commercial barge traffic, particularly in the navigable channel.

Kayakers and canoeists should note that this section of the Ohio River is part of a lock-and-dam system. Pool 52 creates a more stable water surface upstream, but current conditions vary depending on water release schedules from the dam. The river's 417-foot total elevation drop across nearly 954 miles creates a gentle but consistent gradient that generates steady flow year-round. Before launching, paddlers should check current water conditions, dam operations, and navigation advisories—conditions can change rapidly, and coordination with the Army Corps of Engineers information may be helpful for trip planning.