How do I access Upper French Island Spillway?

Upper French Island Spillway is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Upper French Island Spillway?

Upper French Island Spillway supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Upper French Island Spillway?

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

When is the best time to visit Upper French Island Spillway?

The best time to paddle at Upper French Island Spillway is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Upper French Island Spillway?

Water conditions at Upper French Island Spillway include calm, sheltered.

Is Upper French Island Spillway good for beginners?

Yes, Upper French Island Spillway is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Kayakers on a peaceful lake surrounded by autumn foliage at sunset

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Upper French Island Spillway

Onalaska, WI · Boat Ramp · Public

Upper French Island Spillway is a public boat ramp on Lake Onalaska near Onalaska, Wisconsin. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Boat Ramp accessing Lake Onalaska near Onalaska, Wisconsin. calm and sheltered conditions.

Upper French Island Spillway provides shoreline access to Lake Onalaska in Wisconsin, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.

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 calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 5 min from Onalaska, Upper French Island Spillway is a convenient option for Onalaska-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Upper French Island Spillway ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Upper French Island Spillway?: Upper French Island Spillway is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Upper French Island Spillway?: Upper French Island Spillway supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Upper French Island Spillway?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Upper French Island Spillway?: The best time to paddle at Upper French Island Spillway is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Upper French Island Spillway?: Water conditions at Upper French Island Spillway include calm, sheltered.
Is Upper French Island Spillway good for beginners?: Yes, Upper French Island Spillway is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 43.8692, -91.2754