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Access Site IA

Black Hawk Point

Upper Iowa River

Source: iowa_department_of_natural_resources Updated 1 year ago

City: IA
County: Allamakee County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 43.47407311, -91.29495782
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
Black Hawk Point provides boat ramp access to the Upper Iowa River in Allamakee County. This location offers a practical put-in/take-out spot for kayakers, canoeists, and other boaters exploring this scenic northeastern Iowa waterway. The Upper Iowa River is known for its natural beauty and moderate current, making it suitable for paddlers of varying skill levels.

The access site is located near Blackhawk Park, a larger recreational facility in the area that supports boating and fishing activities. If you're planning an extended trip, note that the park offers campground facilities (reservable through Recreation.gov) and additional amenities. For specific details about ramp conditions, parking availability, and any seasonal considerations, contact the park directly at 608-648-3314. The site is accessible via County Road BI from either DeSoto, WI (3 miles north on HWY 35) or LaCrosse, WI (25 miles south on HWY 35).
Federal Facility Information
608-648-3314 Free Access Reservations Available

Overview
Blackhawk Park is located on a forested bend of the main channel of the Mississippi River. The campground is the largest public use facility in Mississippi's Pool 9, offering a wide variety of recreational activities.Recreation
Boating, kayaking, canoeing and fishing are Blackhawk's most popular forms of recreation.

Park rangers provide a variety of programs and activities throughout...

Overview
Blackhawk Park is located on a forested bend of the main channel of the Mississippi River. The campground is the largest public use facility in Mississippi's Pool 9, offering a wide variety of recreational activities.Recreation
Boating, kayaking, canoeing and fishing are Blackhawk's most popular forms of recreation.

Park rangers provide a variety of programs and activities throughout the summer. Interpretive programs are based on recreation, local history and the environment. Other activities range from guided walks and campfire talks, to natural crafts programs.

Here, one can view majestic bluffs and rich backwater vegetation. Sometimes a river barge or classic paddle-wheeled steamboat can be seen journeying up the river.Facilities
The campground offers 150 campsites, including 73 with electrical hookups. All sites have a picnic table and fire ring provided. Flush toilets and showers are located in the West Camping loop. There are no full-hook up sites but a dump station and potable water are located within the park.

The park also has a beach, two picnic shelters, two boat ramps, two playgrounds, a volleyball court, horseshoe pits, fishing docks.Natural Features
This peaceful park is situated on the main channel of the Mississippi River. Cottonwoods, green ash, swamp oaks, river birch and willow trees forest the site, offering nice shade in the summer and beautiful fall colors in autumn.

Visitors commonly see a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, blue herons, ducks, geese, whitetail deer and wild turkey.
Nearby Attractions
The small river towns of DeSoto, Wisconsin and Lansing, Iowa are nearby. DeSoto is 5 minutes south, Lansing is 15 minutes south with a few restaurants and shops. LaCrosse, Wisconsin is 30 minutes north, with restaurants, shops, galleries and farmers markets.

Effigy Mounds National Monument which is operated by the National Park Service (NPS) is located about a 40 minutes south of Blackhawk Park and offers excellent hiking opportunities, and well as picturesque views, and a visitor center, and is free to enter.

The Driftless Area Education And Visitors Center in Lansing Iowa is a short 15 minute drive south, and explores the cultural, recreational, natural, and historical significance of the Driftless Area.

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Nearby Recreation Areas
Mississippi River - Pool 8 Located within