Data Disclaimer: Water level data is provided by USGS and NOAA for informational purposes only. Verify conditions on-site before any water activities.
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Located in La Crosse, Wisconsin, the Lower French Island Spillway provides a concrete boat ramp access point to French Slough and the Mississippi River system. This approximately 20-foot-wide ramp can accommodate small to medium-sized watercraft, making it suitable for kayakers, canoeists, and recreational boaters. The launch provides convenient access to Pool 7 of the Upper Mississippi River, a scenic section of the waterway located between Trempealeau, WI and Dresbach, MN.
Paddlers using this site should be aware of water level conditions and current flow, particularly during periods of higher water when rapids may form downstream. The ramp's location near the spillway makes it an ideal put-in for exploring the slough and accessing the broader Mississippi River system. As with most Wisconsin public boat launches, it's recommended to check current conditions and consult the Wisconsin DNR website (dnr.wi.gov) for any seasonal updates or access information before your trip.