Mark Twain National Wildlife Refuge

Turner Landing provides boat access to the Mississippi River within the Mark Twain National Wildlife Refuge Complex in Calhoun County, Illinois. Located along the Mississippi Flyway, this refuge area protects critical habitat for migratory waterfowl and other wildlife. The landing serves as a primary access point for boaters and paddlers exploring this section of the Mississippi River corridor.

The Mississippi River at this location is a major waterway with significant current and volume—expect average flows of over 685,000 cubic feet per second and water velocities around 11 feet per second. This is a powerful, navigable river (Stream Order 10) with heavy commercial barge traffic. Paddlers should be experienced with moving water and large river conditions, and boaters should use caution around navigation channels and lock-and-dam operations. The refuge complex includes multiple access points; in addition to Turner Landing, nearby ramps like Calhoun Point and Pohlman Slough provide quieter access to backwater lakes and sloughs for those seeking calmer paddling conditions.

To reach Turner Landing, take Illinois State Route 3 north from Chester and follow signs toward Lock and Dam Road. Contact the Jerry F. Costello Lock and Dam visitor contact station for current conditions, water levels, and any access updates before your visit.