Water Activities
in the
Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway Area

A leisurely sail on the Mississippi River

The Melvin Price Locks and Dam near Alton, Illinois creates a 36-mile stretch of the Mississippi River up to Lock and Dam #25 near Winfield, Missouri where the width of the river can reach as wide as a mile. The Illinois River flows into this body of water that can be alternately called Alton Lake or Alton Pool. The Alton Lake Heritage Parkway Corridor Law the Illinois General Assembly found that Mississippi River from Alton to Grafton with its Alton Lake and the majestic limestone bluffs is the most beautiful portion of the entire River.

Alton Lake entices all types of boaters to ply the waters of the mighty Mississippi. Many marinas and other businesses rent motorboats, personal watercraft, and sailboats so that people can experience the river as it flows below 100-foot limestone river bluffs. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers offers an abundance of recreational areas opportunities so that hunters, fishermen, boaters, birdwatchers, and picnickers can enjoy the beauty of the area. No matter what your favorite outdoor activity is, you'll find what you’re looking for on the Mighty Mississippi River.

PUBLIC BOAT LAUNCHES
There is an abundance of public boat launches ranging from full service facilities to more rustic launches where a dirt road meets the river.

FISHING THE ILLINOIS RIVER

FISHING LICENSE INFORMATION

MARINAS OF THE MIDDLE MISSISSIPPI RIVER VALLEY

GUIDE TO RECREATIONAL SERVICES RELATED BUSINESSES

RESTAURANTS ON THE RIVER

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER NAVIGATION CHARTS

MISSOURI BOATING LAWS

RiverBills.com - A lot of diverse information on the Alton Pool community