Kayaking & Canoeing the East Fork Des Moines River
Iowa paddling guide
- 97 mi
- River mapped
- 13
- Boat launches
- 1
- Campgrounds
- 3
- Counties
The East Fork Des Moines River is one of Iowa's paddling rivers, tracing roughly 97 mi through Emmet, Humboldt and Kossuth Counties. Whether you're kayaking, canoeing or tubing, this guide maps every public boat launch and access point on the East Fork Des Moines River, the campgrounds nearby, and the live gauge readings you need to plan a safe day paddling in Iowa.
Boat launches & access points on the East Fork Des Moines River
13 public access points for putting in and taking out.
- ▸Dakota City AccessHumboldt Co.
- ▸Dakota City ParkHumboldt Co.
- ▸Devine Wildlife AreaKossuth Co.
- ▸East Des Moines RiverEmmet Co.
- ▸East Fork Des Moines River AccessHumboldt Co.
- ▸Frank A Gotch ParkHumboldt Co.
- ▸Livermore BridgeHumboldt Co.
- ▸Old BridgeKossuth Co.
- ▸Patterson Recreation and Wildlife AreaKossuth Co.
- ▸Plum Creek DamKossuth Co.
- ▸Plum Creek Wildlife AreaKossuth Co.
- ▸Seneca AccessKossuth Co.
- ▸Veterans ParkKossuth Co.
Camping near the East Fork Des Moines River
- ⛺Ambrose A. Call State ParkKossuth Co.
Live East Fork Des Moines River conditions
River levels change fast. Before you launch, check the live USGS gauges, weather radar and flood-safety status for the East Fork Des Moines River on the interactive Iowa Paddle map. It flags dangerous high water and dams so you can paddle safely.
Paddle more of Iowa
The East Fork Des Moines River is just one of dozens of paddleable rivers in the state. Browse the full guide to kayaking & canoeing every river in Iowa.