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Access Site IA

Vernon Springs Impoundment

Turkey River

Source: iowa_department_of_natural_resources Updated 1 year ago

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City: Cresco, IA
County: Howard County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 43.34695429, -92.13886360
11661 Valley Ave, Cresco, IA 52136, USA
Air Temp: --
Location
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Nearby Gauge Conditions
Turkey River at Spillville, IA Same River 13.5 mi away
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Turkey River near Eldorado, IA Same River 26.2 mi away
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Real-time data from USGS Water Services
Whitewater Runs on Turkey River
2 runs (1 nearby)
Difficulty Classes
I Easy II Novice III Intermediate IV Advanced V Expert/Extreme VI Unrunnable
Position relative to this access site: Put-in at this location This location is on the run Take-out at this location
Downstream from here Upstream from here
I-II Put-in at this location Vernon Springs Park (PnP rock-arch rapids)
0.2 mi
These whitewater runs are on the same river but located more than 50 miles from this access site.
II(III) 61 mi away Elkader Whitewater Park (PnP)
0.1 mi
Whitewater data from American Whitewater
About This Access Site
The Vernon Springs boat ramp provides access to the Vernon Springs Impoundment on the Turkey River near Cresco, Iowa. This ramp is ideal for boaters and anglers looking to fish the impoundment, which holds trophy-sized Northern Pike, Walleye, and Smallmouth Bass that are regularly stocked. The 2010 dam modifications improved both fish passage and water safety, reconnecting 83 miles of the Turkey River.

For paddlers, note that boats and motorcraft are well-suited for the impoundment itself, while canoes and kayaks are best suited for paddling the river below the dam. If you're planning to paddle downstream past the ramp, be aware that the next access point is approximately 2.2 miles downriver. The impoundment also supports populations of Bluegill, Channel Catfish, and other warmwater species, making this a popular fishing destination year-round.
Amenities
restrooms