Your Guide to the Wisconsin River
Our Spring Green resort lies only a few minutes from the banks of the Wisconsin River. As such, relaxing, playing, and discovering new things on the river are some of our guests favorite things to do.
While some of our guests may bring their own watercraft to the water’s edge, some of our guests may need help finding rentals nearby. We cover all of that in this river guide.
Bring your canoe, kayak, and fishing equipment—the river is calling!
Where does the Wisconsin River start and end?
The Wisconsin River begins in the Lac Vieux Desert on the border of Michigan and Wisconsin. It flows to the south and eventually flows into the Mississippi River on the southwestern corner of the state.
When you stay at our resort, you’ll ride the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway.
How deep is the river?
The Wisconsin River is an average of 28 feet deep throughout.
Access Points
Most of the towns near Spring Green have boat launches nearby. Feel free to exit or enter the river on any of them. Here is a list of the boat launches you are most likely to use on your vacation to Spring Green:
- Spring Green Boat Launch
- Otter Creek Boat Launch (near Lone Rock)
- Mazomanie
- Buena Vista Boat Launch (near Gotham)
- Victoria Riverside (near Muscoda)
Now that you know where to go, next is deciding what to do.
River Tubing
Tubing adventures are easily one of the most common things people do when they hop into the Wisconsin River. While Spring Valley Inn doesn’t have rental tubes, there are a few places you can get your hands on some.
Traders offers tubes and a shuttle service so you can keep the fun going all day! You’ll ride from the rental company all the way to Spring Green, which is around a 4.5 mile journey with breathtaking scenery, relaxing atmosphere, and potential for fun memories. You can bring drinks for the ride, but no glass is allowed in the river.
Tubes cost $25 for five hours.
Wisconsin River Kayaking & Canoeing
For the eager explorers who don’t want the current bossing them around, there are also kayaks and canoes for rent around Spring Green.
Rentals
The Wisconsin Canoe Company is one of the easiest places to get these rentals, as renting out watercraft is their bread and butter. If you don’t mind driving a little out of your way, you can visit Bender’s Bluffview Canoe Rentals or Blackhawk River Runs.
Kayaking and Canoeing Trips
The Traders company doesn’t just rent out canoes and kayaks, but it also has several Wisconsin River experts who will take you on a canoe trip. You’ll have the chance to visit islands, ask questions from the guide, and feel secure if you’re new to canoeing or kayaking.
Canoe trips will cost you anywhere from $40 a person to $125 depending on the tour you’re interested in.
Is the Wisconsin River Dangerous?
Like any river, there is a risk to hopping in its waters, but you can avoid danger by taking precautions.
- Make sure everyone in your travel party is wearing a life jacket. This is how most deaths on the river happen.
- Never go alone—always have a buddy with you.
- Do not drink alcohol on the water—particularly strong liquor.
- Listen to the experts. Sometimes the water is unnaturally strong for the day and water activities should be avoided.
Wisconsin River Fishing
If you love fishing and want to give the shores here a try, take a look at this fishing guide.
It’s the perfect resource for rookie hookers and veteran anglers alike.
The Wisconsin River is a fun place to spend a sunny day in Spring Green. If you want a relaxing place to stay near the water’s edge, look no further than Spring Valley Inn. Book a room with us today to start your adventure.