Hendrickson Access (Mark Twain National Forest)

Hendrickson Boat Launch is a popular fishing access point on the Black River near Hendrickson, Missouri, located within Mark Twain National Forest. The site features a gravel boat ramp with an accessible loading platform, making it convenient for launching kayaks, canoes, and motorboats. Two large parking lots accommodate up to 50 vehicles with trailers—one near the ramp and another 200 yards away. The facility is non-reservable and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Black River at this location is a major waterway (Stream Order 9) with an average flow of over 10,500 cubic feet per second and a modest gradient of approximately 1.5 feet per mile. Paddlers should expect moderate current and plan accordingly for their skill level. The river is well-suited for both motorized and non-motorized boating, with flows that remain relatively stable throughout the year despite the river's significant size.

For those planning an extended visit, Snow Creek Campground is available within 10 miles of the access point (with reservations available through Recreation.gov), and the scenic Wappapello Lake and surrounding Ozark foothills offer additional recreation opportunities in the area. The site is accessed from Poplar Bluff by heading north on Highway 67 for 11 miles, then east on Butler County Road 501.

This boat launch is located on the Black River near the town of Hendrickson. This is a popular location to launch for fishing. The site features an accessible loading platform, and also has a large parking lot.