How do I access Sportsman Landing?

Sportsman Landing is a public boat ramp in Minnesota. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Sportsman Landing?

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

What amenities are at Sportsman Landing?

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

When is the best time to visit Sportsman Landing?

The best time to paddle at Sportsman Landing is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Sportsman Landing?

Water conditions at Sportsman Landing include mild current.

Is Sportsman Landing good for beginners?

Yes, Sportsman Landing 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.

man in blue jacket and black backpack riding on white kayak on river during daytime

Photo by Tim Umphreys on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Sportsman Landing

La Crescent, MN · Boat Ramp · Public

Sportsman Landing is a public boat ramp on Mississippi River near La Crescent, Minnesota. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

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 La Crescent, Minnesota. Beginner level with mild current water.

Sportsman Landing is a public launch site on Mississippi River in Minnesota, serving as a popular put-in for paddlers exploring this section of the river.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

You can expect mild current water when paddling here. The recommended season runs June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 5 min from La Crescent, Sportsman Landing is a convenient option for La Crescent-area paddlers.

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 Sportsman Landing?: Sportsman Landing is a public boat ramp in Minnesota. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Sportsman Landing?: Sportsman Landing supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Sportsman Landing?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Sportsman Landing?: The best time to paddle at Sportsman Landing is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Sportsman Landing?: Water conditions at Sportsman Landing include mild current.
Is Sportsman Landing good for beginners?: Yes, Sportsman Landing 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: 43.8195, -91.2746