Mississippi River, Hok-Si-La Park State Water Acc*

Hok-Si-La Park is a 252-acre municipal park located on Lake Pepin, the only naturally occurring lake on the Mississippi River, near Lake City in southeast Minnesota. The park offers a public boat ramp for launching kayaks, canoes, and motorboats onto this scenic widened section of the Mississippi River. The setting provides excellent views of the surrounding limestone bluffs and is accessible via Highway 61.

**Access conditions:** Be aware that the launch area requires driving through approximately 40 yards of sand before reaching the water, and boats are typically launched from shallow water conditions. The ramp can be challenging during strong north or northwest winds, which can create choppy conditions on the lake. Paddlers should check wind forecasts before launching and be prepared for variable water conditions.

The park offers additional amenities including camping, cabin rentals, and a sandy beach, making it a good base for extended paddling trips on Lake Pepin. The location at the midpoint of the lake provides access to this historically significant and scenic stretch of the Mississippi River for both day trips and longer excursions.