Upper French Island Spillway

Located at the southern entrance to Lake Onalaska near La Crosse, the Upper French Island Spillway provides public boat access to this large 8,391-acre impoundment on the Upper Mississippi River. This access point sits at River Mile 702.7, just above Lock and Dam 7, making it an ideal launch for exploring Lake Onalaska and accessing Mississippi River Pool 7. The lake's maximum depth of 40 feet offers varied paddling conditions for kayakers and canoeists.

Paddlers and boaters should be aware that this spillway/roller gate area experiences outflow current from the main Upper Mississippi River channel, which may affect water conditions, particularly during high water periods. Lake Onalaska is home to panfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye, making it popular with anglers. Be sure to check current fishing regulations and any posted lake-specific guidelines at the launch. Keep the access area clean and practice Leave No Trace principles to maintain this important public resource.