City: Fort Madison, IA
County: Lee County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 40.63016529, -91.29685242
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
Willow Patch Access provides public boat launch access to the Mississippi River in Fort Madison, Lee County. Located at river mile 2334 (approximately 2334 miles upstream from the river's mouth), this access point serves paddlers and boaters on one of North America's most significant waterways. The Mississippi at this location is a major river system with substantial flow and current.
**River Conditions & Paddling Considerations:** The Mississippi River in this region averages 685,000+ cubic feet per second with an average velocity of 11+ feet per second, making it suitable primarily for experienced paddlers and boaters. Current conditions vary seasonally, and the river's flow and water levels should be checked before launching. The ramp extends approximately 65 feet and provides access at varying water levels. Paddlers should be aware of commercial traffic, wing dams, and other Mississippi River navigation hazards typical of this stretch.
**Before You Go:** Contact local park management or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for current water conditions, ramp status, and any access restrictions. Nearby amenities and services may be available in Fort Madison. Always wear a personal flotation device and use proper navigation safety equipment when paddling or boating the Mississippi River.
**River Conditions & Paddling Considerations:** The Mississippi River in this region averages 685,000+ cubic feet per second with an average velocity of 11+ feet per second, making it suitable primarily for experienced paddlers and boaters. Current conditions vary seasonally, and the river's flow and water levels should be checked before launching. The ramp extends approximately 65 feet and provides access at varying water levels. Paddlers should be aware of commercial traffic, wing dams, and other Mississippi River navigation hazards typical of this stretch.
**Before You Go:** Contact local park management or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for current water conditions, ramp status, and any access restrictions. Nearby amenities and services may be available in Fort Madison. Always wear a personal flotation device and use proper navigation safety equipment when paddling or boating the Mississippi River.