Activity
Conditions
Amenities
I-474 - Illinois River
I-474 - Illinois River is a public boat ramp on Illinois River near Creve Coeur, 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
Public launch on Illinois River in Illinois. Beginner-friendly river paddling near Creve Coeur.
Situated along Illinois River in Illinois, I-474 - Illinois River provides convenient river access for kayakers, canoeists, and other paddlers.
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. Midwestern waterways provide reliable paddling through the warmer months, with vast open spaces and uncrowded conditions.
Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
I-474 - Illinois River sits about 5 min from Creve Coeur, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.
Paddling Tips
- •Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
- •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.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access I-474 - Illinois River?
- I-474 - Illinois River is a public boat ramp in Illinois. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at I-474 - Illinois River?
- I-474 - Illinois River supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at I-474 - Illinois River?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit I-474 - Illinois River?
- The best time to paddle at I-474 - Illinois River is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at I-474 - Illinois River?
- Water conditions at I-474 - Illinois River include mild current.
- Is I-474 - Illinois River good for beginners?
- Yes, I-474 - Illinois River 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: 40.6337, -89.6223
Quick Facts
- State
- Illinois
- Region
- Midwest
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Creve Coeur
40.6337, -89.6223
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Nearby Paddling
Don Burch Boat Dock and Picnic Area
Illinois · 1.3 mi

Mendenhall Park public boat launch
Illinois · 2.3 mi

Pekin Boat Club
Illinois · 4.3 mi
Pekin Bridge
Illinois · 4.5 mi

Detweiller Marina
Illinois · 5.4 mi
Eastport Marina
Illinois · 5.7 mi