Ambro

The Ambro access site on the Mississippi River provides a convenient launch point in Prairie du Chien, Crawford County, serving paddlers and boaters on Pool 9 of the Upper Mississippi River. Located at North Ambro Road, this ramp offers access to one of North America's major waterways, which averages flows of over 685,000 cubic feet per second through this region. The site is well-positioned for exploring the scenic Upper Mississippi River Valley between Genoa and Lynxville, an area managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Paddlers launching here should note that the Mississippi in this region is a large, powerful river with an average current velocity of 11.24 feet/second. The relatively gentle gradient of 0.8 feet/mile makes this section manageable for experienced kayakers and canoeists, though constant awareness of main channel traffic and current is essential. Ambro Slough, located nearby just 8 miles away, offers an appealing alternative for those seeking quieter water—you can paddle upstream in the slough or return via the main channel for a more sheltered paddling experience.

This location sits near several notable attractions, including Effigy Mounds National Monument, making it an ideal basecamp for multi-day paddling trips in the region. Standard Mississippi River landing designations apply here, with the Wisconsin (left/L) and Minnesota (right/R) sides clearly marked by mile markers.