
Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Marina Drive - 1
Marina Drive - 1 is a public boat ramp on Mississippi River near Oquawka, 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
Marina Drive - 1 offers river paddling on Mississippi River in Illinois. Located near Oquawka.
Located in Illinois, Marina Drive - 1 puts you on Mississippi River with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.
Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle.
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 Oquawka, Marina Drive - 1 is a convenient option for Oquawka-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 Marina Drive - 1?
- Marina Drive - 1 is a public boat ramp in Illinois. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Marina Drive - 1?
- Marina Drive - 1 supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Marina Drive - 1?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Marina Drive - 1?
- The best time to paddle at Marina Drive - 1 is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Marina Drive - 1?
- Water conditions at Marina Drive - 1 include mild current.
- Is Marina Drive - 1 good for beginners?
- Yes, Marina Drive - 1 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: 40.9269, -90.9582
Quick Facts
- State
- Illinois
- Region
- Midwest
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Oquawka
40.9269, -90.9582
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

Marina Drive - 3
Illinois · 0.4 mi

Marina Drive - 2
Illinois · 0.4 mi
Casey Brown Area
Iowa · 1.1 mi
Tama Beach Boat Access
Iowa · 6.1 mi

Putney's Landing Boat ramp
Illinois · 7.3 mi
Bluff Harbor Marina
Iowa · 10.5 mi
Nearby Paddling

Marina Drive - 3
Illinois · 0.4 mi

Marina Drive - 2
Illinois · 0.4 mi
Casey Brown Area
Iowa · 1.1 mi
Gladstone Lake
Illinois · 5.1 mi
Tama Beach Boat Access
Iowa · 6.1 mi

Putney's Landing Boat ramp
Illinois · 7.3 mi