Mississippi River Water Trail Nature is Only a Paddle Away!
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River Information/Safety
Hunting Seasons
Water trail users need to be aware of their surroundings for not only barge traffic, but hunting seasons as well. The blinds covered with vegetation cuttings located in the river are known as duck blinds, which are used for waterfowl hunting. Some temporary blinds may be used on a daily basis. Refer to state regulations for additional information.
In general, waterfowl seasons start on September 1st and end on March 31st. Deer seasons start October 1st and end on January 15th. There may be shotgun or archery deer hunting on islands, as well as other state managed lands.
Locking Through
There is no fee for locking through.
Stay out of posted/restricted areas.
Stay in your boat when locking through.
Inform lock that you want to lock through by pulling the small boat signal chain located at the end of the wall or call lock on marine radio.
Enter lock when gates are fully open and you receive the green signal light to enter.
While in the lock, stay in the center of the chamber, away from walls. (You may be given special instructions by lock staff)
One short blast designates that lockage is complete, and you may exit the lock.
Commercial Traffic- Barge traffic runs within the navigational channel, designated by the green and red buoys. Paddlers should not travel in the main channel.
Paddling Safety & Tips
Wear your life jacket
Be prepared to swim
Never boat alone
If you collide with an obstruction, lean toward it.
Confine your first outings to calm backwater areas.
Consider taking a paddling safety course.
Be familiar with capsize recovery techniques.
Carry the right gear.
Always check weather forecasts and river conditions before setting out.
Paddle in groups whenever possible and know the experience levels of those in the group.
Leave No Trace
Plan ahead and prepare
Dispose of waste properly
Deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water, camp, and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished.
Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.
Leave what you find
Respect wildlife
Be considerate of other visitors
For more information on "leave no trace", go to www.lnt.org
Camping & Day Use Rules
Gathering of firewood on the ground is permitted
Cutting firewood is PROHIBITED
All fires in containment grills only. NO ground fires. All fires should be completely extinguished prior to departure.
All trash should be removed from the area upon departure. Please pack out what you pack in.
