How do I access Old Shawneetown?

Old Shawneetown is a public boat ramp in Illinois. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Old Shawneetown?

Old Shawneetown supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Old Shawneetown?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Old Shawneetown?

The best time to paddle at Old Shawneetown is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Old Shawneetown?

Water conditions at Old Shawneetown include mild current.

Is Old Shawneetown good for beginners?

Yes, Old Shawneetown 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.

Kayakers on a wide heartland river at sunset with flat green banks

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Old Shawneetown

Shawneetown, IL · Boat Ramp · Public

Old Shawneetown is a public boat ramp on Ohio River near Shawneetown, 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

Old Shawneetown offers river paddling on Ohio River in Illinois. Located near Shawneetown.

Located in Illinois, Old Shawneetown puts you on Ohio River with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.

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.

Water conditions are generally mild current. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Shawneetown takes about 5 min, putting Old Shawneetown within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

Paddling Tips

•River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Old Shawneetown?: Old Shawneetown is a public boat ramp in Illinois. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Old Shawneetown?: Old Shawneetown supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Old Shawneetown?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Old Shawneetown?: The best time to paddle at Old Shawneetown is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Old Shawneetown?: Water conditions at Old Shawneetown include mild current.
Is Old Shawneetown good for beginners?: Yes, Old Shawneetown 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: 37.6968, -88.1336