Pecatonica River - North

The North access point on the East Branch Pecatonica River near Woodford offers paddlers a launch location upstream of the major confluence where the East Branch doubles the river's volume. This upper section flows through scenic terrain partly bordered by a State Natural Area and valley ridges, making it an attractive paddling destination. From this access, downstream paddlers will encounter the Browntown boat ramp approximately 8.8 miles away (via Highway D/N to Highway 11), providing a convenient take-out option.

**Launch Details:** The primary concrete boat ramp in this area is located on Highway 11 near Browntown, about 1/2 mile west of town on the south side of the road, east of the bridge, with ample off-road parking available. Paddlers should be aware of potential hazards downstream, including a small broken dam at Brown's Mill approximately 10 miles south of Hancock Avenue, and plan portages accordingly. For those seeking additional access points and camping opportunities, forest preserves at the Sugar River confluence and near Rockton, Illinois provide alternative launch and take-out locations further downstream.