Sullivan Slough River Access

Vital Stats:

• 22 acres
• Boat ramp
• Accessible only when Mississippi River stage at Burlington is less than 13.5 feet.

Things to do:

Boating, Canoeing, Fishing, Hunting

Description:

Sullivan Slough River Access is the southernmost of Des Moines County Conservation’s four boat ramps on the Mississippi River. The property features a concrete ramp and gravel parking lot as well as 22 acres of adjacent bottomland timber open to public hunting. DMCC provides a public boat dock during the summer and fall boating season. The ramp provides access to quality boating, fishing, and hunting opportunities on Mississippi River Pool 19. The access lies directly across the river from a sand island locally known as “johnboat beach,” a popular summer boater hangout. Due to the property’s low elevation, it is inaccessible when the river stage at Burlington exceeds 13.5’.

History:

In May, 1989, the DMCCB entered into a 15-year management/lease agreement with Sidco Inc., Centerville, IA. Located in Concordia Township, this 22-acre area was developed to include a river access plus a wildlife area.

A single-lane, concrete boat ramp with boat dock and parking with maneuvering areas was constructed on a two-acre area. Two cost share grants through the Iowa Marine Fuel Tax Fund, as well as DNR funding aided in paying for the project. The remaining 20-acre area is used as a wildlife area.

Rules:

1. No camping
2. No loitering
3. No fires
4. No littering
5. Docks are for loading/unloading only
6. Keep all vehicles on roadways or designated parking areas
7. Do not obstruct access to ramp

EMERGENCY CONTACT PHONE NUMBER: 911

NON-EMERGENCY:

Des Moines County Conservation: 319-753-8260

Des Moines County Sheriff Department: 319-753-8366

Directions:

Go south on Burlington’s Summer St., two miles past the airport. Turn left on Sullivan Slough Rd. The road will end at the boat ramp, about two miles from Summer St.