City: East Moline, IL
County: Rock Island County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 41.54389194, -90.42063641
Air Temp: --
Location
Live Webcam
Nearby Gauge Conditions
Real-time data from USGS Water Services
Whitewater Runs on Mississippi River
1 run
There are no whitewater runs within 50 miles of this access site.
These whitewater runs are on the same river but located more than 50 miles from this access site.
Difficulty Classes
I Easy
II Novice
III Intermediate
IV Advanced
V Expert/Extreme
VI Unrunnable
Whitewater data from
American Whitewater
About This Access Site
Empire Park in East Moline provides public boat access to the mighty Mississippi River in Navigation Pool 26. This launch site offers convenient entry to one of North America's major waterways, which averages a substantial flow of over 685,000 cubic feet per second with an average velocity of 11.24 feet/second. Paddlers and boaters should be prepared for strong currents and significant river traffic typical of this major navigation corridor.
The broader area provides excellent opportunities for paddlers, with approximately 40 miles of Mississippi River access available through nearby facilities like Piasa Creek Access Area and Royal Landing. The river's relatively gentle average gradient (0.8 ft/mile) makes it suitable for various skill levels, though the high volume of water and commercial traffic requires caution and awareness. Navigation Pool 26 also connects to the Illinois River, which offers an additional 35 miles of access through multiple landings, giving paddlers and anglers diverse options for day trips or longer expeditions.
Before launching, contact local authorities or visit site amenities to confirm current conditions, parking availability, and any applicable fees. The Mississippi's size and flow demand respect—wear appropriate safety gear and consider river conditions, especially water level and current speed, when planning your trip.
The broader area provides excellent opportunities for paddlers, with approximately 40 miles of Mississippi River access available through nearby facilities like Piasa Creek Access Area and Royal Landing. The river's relatively gentle average gradient (0.8 ft/mile) makes it suitable for various skill levels, though the high volume of water and commercial traffic requires caution and awareness. Navigation Pool 26 also connects to the Illinois River, which offers an additional 35 miles of access through multiple landings, giving paddlers and anglers diverse options for day trips or longer expeditions.
Before launching, contact local authorities or visit site amenities to confirm current conditions, parking availability, and any applicable fees. The Mississippi's size and flow demand respect—wear appropriate safety gear and consider river conditions, especially water level and current speed, when planning your trip.