Rock River Water Trail

About the Rock River Water Trail

The Rock River Water Trail flows 320 miles from the pristine wetlands of Horicon National Wildlife Refuge in south-central Wisconsin to its confluence with the Mississippi River at the Quad Cities of Illinois and Iowa. Designated as a National Water Trail in March 2013, it was the first water trail in both Wisconsin and Illinois to receive this prestigious recognition from the U.S. Department of the Interior.

This remarkable water trail meanders down a gentle gradient through beautiful rural and wilderness landscapes, vibrant urban riverfronts, and historic communities across two states. The Rock River connects 11 counties, 37 municipalities, and offers paddlers an exceptional diversity of landscape, vista, recreation, cultural, and historic experiences. With 155 well-marked access sites (50 of which are ADA-accessible), the trail is designed to be usable by everyone, whether novice or experienced paddler.

Trail Highlights

The Rock River Water Trail offers paddlers extraordinary natural and cultural experiences. The journey begins at Horicon Marsh, a Wetland of International Importance and critical stopover for hundreds of thousands of migrating waterfowl. The marsh section features a 6-mile paddle trail through cattail marshes where paddlers regularly observe bald eagles, great blue herons, and state-endangered black terns.

Beyond the marsh, the river flows through glacially-sculpted landscapes featuring the world’s highest concentration of drumlins—elongated hills formed during the last ice age. The Upper Rock River maintains a remarkably flat gradient with only 34 feet of elevation drop over 58 miles between Horicon and Watertown. This gentle flow makes the river ideal for multi-day paddle camping trips and leisurely day excursions.

The trail passes through historic river towns including Watertown, Jefferson, Fort Atkinson, Janesville, and Beloit in Wisconsin, each offering resupply opportunities, cultural attractions, and glimpses into the region’s rich Native American and Euro-American heritage. In Illinois, the river continues through scenic countryside before reaching the Mississippi River at Rock Island.

Difficulty & Accessibility

The Rock River Water Trail is rated as beginner to intermediate for paddling. The gentle gradient and generally calm conditions make this an excellent choice for novice paddlers, families, and those new to multi-day paddle camping. The 22 dams along the route require portages, which are well-marked with signage bearing the Rock River Water Trail logo.

The trail’s exceptional accessibility is one of its defining features. With over 30% of access sites designed for persons with disabilities, the Rock River Water Trail sets a standard for inclusive outdoor recreation. Access sites are spaced at reasonable intervals, allowing paddlers to plan trips of varying lengths from short afternoon paddles to week-long expeditions.

Ecological Importance

The Rock River basin encompasses over 3,700 square miles of south-central Wisconsin. The river and its surrounding lands provide critical habitat for diverse wildlife populations. Horicon Marsh alone supports more than 300 species of birds, making it a globally significant bird area. The river corridor provides habitat for fish including walleye, northern pike, bass, and panfish, as well as mammals like muskrats, beavers, white-tailed deer, and red foxes.

The river’s watershed includes remnants of prairie, oak savanna, and wetland ecosystems. While agricultural use dominates current land use, conservation efforts continue to protect and restore natural habitats along the river corridor. The Ice Age National Scientific Reserve includes units along the Rock River, preserving glacial features of international geological significance.

Route Guide & Sections

The Rock River Water Trail can be paddled in its entirety or explored in shorter sections. The 320-mile route flows through distinctly different landscapes, offering paddlers varied experiences from wilderness marsh to agricultural countryside to urban riverfronts.

Trip Planning Distances

Planning Your Rock River Adventure

Best Season for Paddling

The Rock River Water Trail is paddleable from late April through October, with optimal conditions typically occurring from May through September. The river is accessible year-round, but seasonal considerations significantly impact the paddling experience.

Spring (April-May): Snowmelt and spring rains bring higher water levels, making navigation easier but potentially creating faster currents. This is migration season at Horicon Marsh—expect spectacular birding opportunities with peak waterfowl numbers in April and early May. Water temperatures remain cold (40-50°F), requiring appropriate gear. Access sites may be muddy.

Summer (June-August): The prime paddling season offers warm temperatures, generally stable water levels, and comfortable conditions. Expect peak usage at popular access points and camping areas. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible—monitor weather forecasts. Water levels can drop during dry periods, potentially exposing more rocks and making some sections shallower. Insect activity (mosquitoes) is highest during this period, especially near marsh and wetland areas.

Fall (September-October): Excellent paddling conditions with cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful fall colors. Fall migration brings waterfowl back to Horicon Marsh. Water levels are typically stable but can be lower than spring. Prepare for variable weather and cooler water temperatures (50-60°F). Some camping facilities may close after Labor Day—check availability.

Winter (November-March): While technically possible, winter paddling is not recommended for most users. Ice formation, cold water temperatures (32-40°F), and limited services make winter trips challenging and potentially dangerous. Some access sites may be inaccessible due to snow and ice.

Water Conditions & Flow

The Rock River maintains generally reliable water levels throughout the paddling season due to its large watershed, multiple dams, and impoundments. However, conditions vary based on precipitation, snowmelt, and dam operations.

Permits & Regulations

Paddling Permits: No special permits are required to paddle the Rock River Water Trail. The trail is open to public use throughout its length on navigable waters.

Boat Launch Permits: Some access sites, particularly in Wisconsin, may require daily or annual boat launch permits. Jefferson County, for example, requires a boat launch permit effective January 1, 2022 at county parks. Check with individual county park systems for current requirements. Fees are typically modest ($5-10 daily, $25-40 annual).

Fishing Licenses: Wisconsin and Illinois fishing licenses are required to fish in respective states. Licenses are not transferable between states—if your trip crosses state lines and you plan to fish, you’ll need licenses for both states. Available online or at local retailers. Wisconsin offers 1-day, multi-day, and annual licenses.

Camping Regulations: Camping is restricted to designated sites. Primitive camping is available on three US Bureau of Land Management river islands in Wisconsin. Public and private campgrounds along the route have varying fees and regulations. Reservations recommended during peak season.

Special Regulations:

• Horicon National Wildlife Refuge: No paddling allowed in federal refuge waters (northern two-thirds of marsh). Lead fishing tackle prohibited at designated shore fishing areas within the refuge.
• Dam Safety Zones: Maintain safe distance from all dams. Follow portage signage carefully. Never attempt to paddle over dams or through spillways.
• Wildlife Protection: Respect seasonal closures and restricted areas designed to protect nesting birds and sensitive habitats. Dogs must be leashed April 15-July 31 in Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area to avoid disturbing nesting birds.
• Local Ordinances: Respect property rights, local regulations, and posted restrictions in individual communities.

Getting to Trailheads

Northern Trailheads (Horicon Area):

• Waupun County Park (South Branch): From Waupun, follow signs to county park. Parking, restrooms, and facilities available.
• Rivers Edge Park, Theresa (East Branch): Located in Theresa on the east side of Horicon Marsh. Accessible parking and launch.
• Green Head Boat Landing (Horicon Marsh paddle trail start): N8600 Green Head Road, Horicon, WI 53032. GPS: N43°30’19.5″ W088°35’31.3″
• Nebraska Street Boat Landing, Horicon: Serves as take-out for marsh paddle trail. Parking and facilities.

Major Access Points – Wisconsin: Well-marked access sites exist in Hustisford, Watertown (multiple sites), Johnson Creek, Jefferson, Ixonia (Kanow Park), Lake Mills area, Fort Atkinson, Newville, Janesville, and Beloit. Most offer parking, some have restroom facilities. County park sites typically offer the best amenities.

Illinois Access Points: Access sites are located throughout the Illinois section with significant points in Rockton, Oregon, Dixon, Sterling-Rock Falls, Erie, and Rock Island. The Erie Boat Ramp begins the final 19-mile section to the next access.

Shuttle Services: Limited commercial shuttle services available. Many paddlers use two vehicles, leaving one at take-out. Some local outfitters may offer shuttle services for a fee—inquire locally. For Horicon Marsh paddle events, DNR provides free shuttle service from Nebraska Street Landing back to Green Head Landing.

Resupply & Services

The Rock River Water Trail passes through 37 river communities, providing excellent resupply opportunities. Most larger towns (Horicon, Watertown, Jefferson, Fort Atkinson, Janesville, Beloit, Oregon, Dixon, Sterling, Rock Island) offer full services including grocery stores, restaurants, lodging, outfitters, and medical facilities.

Smaller communities provide more limited services but often have convenience stores, cafes, or local shops. Plan resupply stops based on your itinerary—typical spacing between significant towns ranges from 10-25 river miles. Some rural sections, particularly in Illinois, have fewer amenities.

Access Points & Camping

Access Site Overview

The Rock River Water Trail features 155 marked access sites along its 320-mile length. Access sites are signed with the distinctive Rock River Water Trail logo—standard highway blue and yellow with reflective finish. Of these sites, 50 are specifically designed to be accessible for persons with disabilities, making this one of the most inclusive water trails in the nation.

Recommended Access Points

Wisconsin – Horicon Marsh Area:

• Waupun County Park – South Branch trailhead
• Rivers Edge Park, Theresa – East Branch trailhead
• Green Head Boat Landing – Marsh paddle trail start (ADA)
• Nebraska Street Boat Landing, Horicon – Marsh paddle trail end

Wisconsin – Upper Rock River:

• Hustisford – Access near Lake Sinissippi
• Watertown – Front Street Dam area, Milwaukee Street areas
• Kanow Park, Ixonia – Popular day-use access
• Rock River Park, Johnson Creek – 4-acre park with facilities (boat launch permit required)
• Jefferson area – Multiple access points
• Fort Atkinson – Bark River confluence area

Wisconsin – Lower Rock River:

• Newville – Lake Koshkonong area
• Janesville – Multiple urban access points
• Beloit – Access near Illinois border

Illinois Section:

• South Beloit – State line access
• Rockton area – Winnebago County
• Oregon – Ogle County access
• Dixon – Lee County facilities
• Sterling-Rock Falls area
• Erie Boat Ramp (Glen Miller Marina) – Access for final long section
• Cleveland Boat Ramp – 19 miles below Erie
• Rock Island – Sunset Park and Marina (Mississippi River confluence)

Camping Along the Trail

The Rock River Water Trail inventory includes 16 designated river-access camping facilities, with additional facilities available within the river corridor. Camping options range from primitive riverside sites to full-service campgrounds.

Primitive Camping: The U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management owns three river islands in Wisconsin available for primitive camping. These offer first-come, first-served camping for water travelers. Expect basic conditions with no facilities—practice Leave No Trace principles.

Public Campgrounds: Several county and state parks along the route offer camping facilities with varying amenities. These typically include established campsites, restrooms, water, and sometimes showers. Examples include various county parks in Wisconsin. Reservations recommended during summer months.

Private Campgrounds: Private RV parks and campgrounds exist in many river communities. Some cater to paddlers and may offer riverside tent camping. Lundeen’s Landing in Barstow (just below Cleveland Boat Ramp in Illinois) is a privately-owned campground with store and launch facilities.

Dams & Portages

The Rock River features 22 dams along its 320-mile course, requiring portages. All dam sites are marked with signage. Portage difficulty varies from easy (short carry on established paths) to moderate (longer carries around developed areas).

Portage Safety: Always scout dams from shore before approaching. Maintain a safe distance from all dam structures—currents near dams can be extremely dangerous. Follow marked portage routes. Never attempt to run or paddle over any dam structure. In high water, give dams extra distance.

Notable Portages:

• Horicon area dams – Multiple structures controlling marsh water levels
• Watertown dams – Two dams in downtown (historic powerhouse structures)
• Various municipal dams throughout Wisconsin and Illinois
• Milan Steel Dam (Illinois) – Approach on river left; Sears Dam unsafe portage, use alternative routes

Portage distances typically range from 50-500 feet. Some urban portages may require carrying gear on sidewalks or through parks. Portage carts or wheels can be helpful for longer carries.

Safety & Trail Conditions

General Safety Considerations

The Rock River Water Trail is generally a safe paddling environment suitable for beginners and families. However, all water recreation carries inherent risks that require proper preparation and caution.

Weather Hazards

Thunderstorms: Summer afternoon thunderstorms are common in Wisconsin and Illinois. Lightning poses serious danger on open water. Monitor forecasts before launching. If thunderstorms threaten, get off the water immediately and seek shelter. Never wait out storms in canoes or kayaks.

Wind: Large impoundments (Lake Koshkonong, Lake Sinissippi, Lake Sinnissippi) can develop significant wind-driven waves. Conditions may start calm and deteriorate rapidly. Kayakers and canoeists should use extra caution on large open water. Stay near shore when winds exceed 10-15 mph. Morning paddling often offers calmest conditions on lakes.

Cold Water: Water temperatures remain cold (40-50°F) through May. Immersion in cold water causes rapid loss of dexterity and can lead to hypothermia within minutes. Wear appropriate layers and consider wetsuits or drysuits in spring and fall. Always be prepared to swim—never paddle beyond your swimming ability.

Heat & Sun: Summer temperatures can exceed 90°F with high humidity. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are risks. Stay hydrated (1 liter per 2-3 hours paddling), wear sun protection (hat, sunscreen, UV clothing), take breaks in shade, and start early to avoid peak afternoon heat.

Water-Specific Hazards

Dams: The most serious hazard on the Rock River. Currents near dams can be deadly—hydraulics at dam bases can trap swimmers and boats. Always maintain safe distance, scout from shore, and use designated portage routes. Never approach closer than 100 feet to any dam structure. Be especially cautious in high water when currents are stronger.

Submerged Obstacles: Fallen trees (strainers), submerged logs, rocks, and debris pose collision and entrapment hazards. Scan ahead continuously. In faster current areas, strainers are particularly dangerous—water flows through but traps boats and swimmers. Give wide berth to any obstacles.

Boat Traffic: The Rock River allows motorized boats. Motorboats can create wakes that may swamp smaller craft. Kayakers and canoeists should stay alert, especially on wider sections and impoundments. Make yourself visible, stay to the right, and yield to larger vessels. On impoundments, fishing boats and ski boats are common.

Water Quality: While generally good, water quality can decline during heavy runoff events or in some urban sections. Avoid swallowing river water. Carry drinking water. Be aware of any posted water quality advisories. Some sections have higher sediment loads, especially after rain.

Wildlife Safety

The Rock River corridor supports diverse wildlife. Most encounters are positive, but paddlers should understand how to coexist safely with animals.

Waterfowl: During nesting season (April-July), avoid disturbing nesting birds. Give wide berth to any birds acting defensive. Canada geese with goslings can be aggressive if approached too closely. Dogs must be leashed in Horicon Marsh April 15-July 31 to protect nesting birds.

Bald Eagles: Common along the river. Observe from distance with binoculars. Avoid nesting areas marked with signs.

Mammals: Beavers, muskrats, deer, and other mammals are common but generally avoid humans. If you encounter larger mammals on shore during portages or camping, maintain respectful distance. Secure all food at campsites.

Snakes & Turtles: Several snake species inhabit the area, including northern water snakes (non-venomous but often mistaken for water moccasins, which don’t occur in Wisconsin). Give snakes space. Turtles are common and harmless—enjoy observing from your boat.

Insects: Mosquitoes can be intense near marsh areas, especially June-July. Ticks are present in vegetation along shore. Use insect repellent. Check for ticks after shore excursions. Black flies and biting flies can be annoying in certain areas.

Medical Considerations

River towns along the route provide medical facilities, but response times can be significant in rural sections. Carry a well-stocked first aid kit. Know basic first aid and CPR. For multi-day trips, consider wilderness first aid training.

Common injuries include cuts, scrapes, blisters, and sunburn. Dehydration and heat-related illness occur during summer. Shoulder and back strain from paddling affect unprepared paddlers. Proper paddling technique and physical conditioning help prevent injuries.

Cell phone coverage is generally good along the Rock River due to its proximity to developed areas, but coverage can be spotty in some rural sections. Consider carrying a whistle (required safety equipment) to signal for help. On remote sections, a waterproof VHF radio or PLB may provide additional safety margin.

Wildlife & Natural Features

Birding Paradise

The Rock River Water Trail, particularly the Horicon Marsh section, is internationally recognized as a premier birding destination. The marsh alone provides habitat for more than 300 species of birds and is designated as a Wetland of International Importance, a Globally Important Bird Area, and a State Important Bird Area.

Spring Migration (March-May): Spectacular waterfowl concentrations include hundreds of thousands of Canada geese (peak populations often exceed 150,000-200,000 birds in early April), tundra swans, ducks including redheads, canvasbacks, ring-necked ducks, scaup, mallards, pintails, and wigeon. Sandhill cranes stage in large numbers. Bald eagles concentrate to feed on fish and waterfowl. Shorebirds and waders begin arriving.

Nesting Season (May-July): Marsh residents include great blue herons, great egrets, black-crowned night herons, state-endangered black terns, least bitterns, American bitterns, common gallinules, Virginia rails, soras, marsh wrens, yellow-headed blackbirds, and red-winged blackbirds. Wood ducks and hooded mergansers nest in tree cavities along wooded sections.

Fall Migration (September-November): Return of waterfowl in impressive numbers. October typically sees peak Canada goose populations. Duck diversity increases as northern species migrate through. Raptors including northern harriers, red-tailed hawks, and occasional peregrine falcons hunt over the marsh.

Year-Round Residents: Bald eagles (especially concentrated in winter at open water below dams), red-tailed hawks, great horned owls, belted kingfishers, and various songbirds.

Mammals

The Rock River corridor supports healthy mammal populations. Paddlers commonly observe muskrats swimming in the river or marsh, beavers (active dawn and dusk, look for lodges and cut trees), river otters (less common but present), white-tailed deer (along shore, especially dawn/dusk), red foxes, and raccoons.

Mink patrol shorelines hunting for fish and crayfish. Bats hunt insects over the water at dusk. Small mammals like voles, mice, and shrews inhabit riparian vegetation but are rarely seen from boats.

Fish & Aquatic Life

The Rock River provides excellent fishing opportunities for various species. Wisconsin and Illinois fishing licenses are required in respective states.

Game Fish Species: Walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, and various panfish including bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, crappie, and perch populate the river. Some sections have special fishing regulations—consult current Wisconsin and Illinois fishing regulations guides.

Rough Fish: Common carp, buffalo, bowfin, gar, and various suckers are abundant and play important ecological roles.

Other Aquatic Life: Painted turtles and map turtles bask on logs. Snapping turtles lurk in muddy bottoms. Various frogs and toads vocalize from shore—spring peeper choruses are deafening in April. Dragonflies and damselflies patrol for insects in summer. Crayfish are abundant but typically hidden during day.

Plants & Habitats

The Rock River flows through diverse plant communities. Horicon Marsh features extensive cattail marshes, sedge meadows, and aquatic plant beds with wild rice, coontail, and pondweeds. These wetlands purify water and provide critical wildlife habitat.

Riparian (riverside) forests include silver maples, willows, cottonwoods, green ash, and river birch. These trees stabilize banks and provide shade. Understory shrubs like dogwoods and buttonbush create additional habitat structure.

Prairie remnants survive on bluffs and uplands near the river, featuring big bluestem, Indian grass, prairie dock, compass plant, and native wildflowers. Rock River Prairie State Natural Area preserves important prairie plant communities including rare species.

Agricultural lands dominate much of the watershed—corn and soybean fields extend to the river in many sections, reflecting the region’s rich soil legacy from glaciation.

Geological Features

The Rock River landscape tells the story of the Wisconsin Glaciation. The Horicon Marsh area contains the world’s highest concentration of drumlins—elongated hills formed by glacial ice movement. Some drumlins became islands in the marsh.

The marsh itself occupies the basin of Glacial Lake Horicon, formed when glacial meltwaters were trapped behind a terminal moraine. As the Rock River gradually eroded through the moraine, the lake drained, leaving the extensive wetland.

The Ice Age National Scientific Reserve includes units along the Rock River, recognizing the international significance of these glacial features. South of the glacial boundary, the river flows through older, unglaciated terrain in Illinois, creating different landscape character.

Frequently Asked Questions

Essential Resources & Links

Official Trail Information

Planning & Maps

Regulations & Licensing

Local Resources & Outfitters

Awards & Recognition

Ready to Paddle Your Own Journey?

The Rock River Water Trail offers one of the Midwest’s premier paddling experiences—accessible, diverse, and rich with wildlife and history. From the internationally-significant Horicon Marsh to the confluence with the mighty Mississippi River, this 320-mile National Water Trail welcomes paddlers of all abilities.

Whether you’re planning a morning paddle through the marsh, a weekend camping adventure, or a multi-week through-trip, the Rock River Water Trail provides unforgettable experiences and connections to Midwest waterways. Start planning your journey today!