Activity
Conditions
Amenities
East Dubuque Route 20
East Dubuque Route 20 is a public boat ramp on Mississippi River near Dubuque, Illinois. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.
At a Glance
Water Body
River
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Good
Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
About This Location
Launch into Mississippi River near Dubuque, Illinois. Beginner level with mild current water.
East Dubuque Route 20 is a public launch site on Mississippi River in Illinois, serving as a popular put-in for paddlers exploring this section of the river.
Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.
You can expect mild current water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
Located about 5 min from Dubuque, East Dubuque Route 20 is a convenient option for Dubuque-area paddlers.
Paddling Tips
- •Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
- •Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
- •Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
- •River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access East Dubuque Route 20?
- East Dubuque Route 20 is a public boat ramp in Illinois. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at East Dubuque Route 20?
- East Dubuque Route 20 supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at East Dubuque Route 20?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit East Dubuque Route 20?
- The best time to paddle at East Dubuque Route 20 is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at East Dubuque Route 20?
- Water conditions at East Dubuque Route 20 include mild current.
- Is East Dubuque Route 20 good for beginners?
- Yes, East Dubuque Route 20 is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 42.4925, -90.6502
Quick Facts
- State
- Illinois
- Region
- Midwest
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Dubuque
42.4925, -90.6502
Best Paddling in Illinois
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Mississippi River
6 other launches on this water body
Millenium Marina
Illinois · 1.1 mi
Chaplin Schmitt Boat Ramp
Iowa · 1.4 mi
Hawthorne Street Boat Ramp
Iowa · 2.2 mi
AY McDonald Park
Iowa · 2.3 mi

Frentress Lake
Illinois · 2.6 mi
Sunfish Lake
Wisconsin · 3.5 mi
Nearby Paddling

Chaplin Schmitt Boat Ramp
Iowa · 0.4 mi
Mid-Town Marina
Illinois · 0.6 mi
Millenium Marina
Illinois · 1.1 mi
Chaplin Schmitt Boat Ramp
Iowa · 1.4 mi
Hawthorne Street Boat Ramp
Iowa · 2.2 mi
AY McDonald Park
Iowa · 2.3 mi