The park provides direct water access to Lake Onalaska, a 7,680-acre impoundment created by Lock and Dam No. 7.
It serves as the northern terminus of the La Crosse River State Trail, which spans 21.5 miles through driftless region valleys.
The landing is positioned within the Mississippi Flyway, making it a seasonal migration stop for Tundra Swans and various waterfowl species.
The facility is managed as part of a cooperative effort to support both recreational boating and wildlife conservation in the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge.
Great River Landing serves as a primary recreational gateway located on the banks of Lake Onalaska, part of the Mississippi River's Pool 7. The site features a prominent boat launch and serves as the northern trailhead for the La Crosse River State Trail. It functions as a multipurpose hub for anglers, cyclists, and paddlers navigating the backwaters of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. The area is engineered to handle high-volume watercraft traffic while providing access to extensive riparian wetlands. Visitors can access a network of boardwalks and pathways designed for birdwatching and observing aquatic ecosystems. It is situated within the Great River Road corridor, a national scenic byway.
The elevated viewing deck overlooking the boat launch and the expansive vista of Lake Onalaska.
Bring polarized sunglasses to better observe submerged aquatic vegetation and fish activity in the clear shallows.
Combine a visit with a bicycle ride onto the La Crosse River State Trail for access to regional wetlands.
Check local water level reports if you intend to launch a watercraft during spring snowmelt periods.
Do not attempt to navigate marked wildlife sanctuary channels during restricted nesting seasons.
Boat launch facilities may experience temporary closures or limited access during late winter ice conditions or extreme spring flooding.
Practice pack-in, pack-out waste disposal; yield right-of-way to non-motorized watercraft and trail cyclists.
