Red Star Access

Red Star Access provides public boat launch access to the Mississippi River near Cape Girardeau. Located adjacent to the Rush Island Power Plant, the site can be reached via Highway 61 south from Crystal City, then east on Route AA and Big Hollow Road. Be aware that this access point has specific operational limitations: the ramp closes when the river gauge reaches 33 feet and becomes unusable when water levels drop to 8 feet or below at the Cape Girardeau gauge. During high water events, flooding, mud, and debris may close the site to public use.

Paddlers should expect significant current on this major river section—the Mississippi averages 11.24 feet per second flow with substantial volume. The river's character varies dramatically with season and water levels, making gauge monitoring essential before launching. Low water conditions may result in muddy banks and challenging launch conditions, so checking current river conditions at the Cape Girardeau gauge is strongly recommended before your trip. The area is subject to flooding during high water periods, and access may be restricted without notice.