12-person van transport

Our van and canoe trailer can drop-off or pick-up guides and guests as part of a backwater paddling adventure package in pools 5A and 6. If getting a group together for hiking regional state parks, and touring local wineries and orchards is the desired pace, the van is available for that too!

CALL TO PLAN & RESERVE (507)452-4501.

Mississippi River Paddling

Tune into your desired level of adventure on the river at Prairie Island Campground. Either simply rent equipment and paddle in the waters around the campground, or you may choose one of the guided excursions below, that go deeper into the backwaters, offering unique destinations and opportunities to explore the spaces between a wild and natural river and the towns along its banks.

Call to plan & reserve an adventure!

507-452-4501

Black Bird Slough Canoe trail

Either on your own, or with a guide, quietly enter the rich environment of Pool 6 of the Mississippi River, and observe wildlife up close within the forested backwaters. As this trail is an out-and-back, expect to be paddling for about 1-1/2 hours. A very family friendly beginner paddle. Be sure to bring sun protection, water, and shoes that can be worn in the water to protect feet from cuts and scrapes A uniquely Winona experience!

Dam to dam: Pool 5A tour

In this advanced 3-4 hour paddling experience, the group is transported from the Campground to a launch below Lock & Dam 5. After a brief moment in the main channel, the route enters the calm forested backwater sloughs of the Upper Mississippi River, surrounded by one of the most diverse wildlife habitats in North America. We plan for a stop at a sandbar along the way for a snack, then arrive at one of the boat launches just above the spillway of Lock & Dam 5A.

Island City: Bridges & Boathouses Tour

This intermediate paddle starts at the campground and flows for approximately 2-1/2 hours. Paddle across the main channel, under the bridges that connect Winona to Wisconsin, past the unique boathouse community of Latsch Island, along the bird sanctuary of Aghaming Park, and end at the East End Boat Launch. Our van will bring us back to where we started.