Paddling On Turtle Creek
Turtle Creek and the Rock River in the greater Beloit area offer some wonderful paddling opportunities and both waterways are very scenic. You’ll enjoy spotting eagles, hawks, herons, beaver, various species of ducks and other waterfowl. In addition, you’ll see the occasional deer, fox and coyote along the banks.
Turtle Creek
Turtle Creek winds its way for over 30 miles from Turtle Lake near Delavan, Wisconsin to the Rock River in South Beloit, Illinois. Water levels can fluctuate a great deal on the creek, with several low spots during the summer. When the area has experienced heavy rains, it is prudent to check water levels and determine whether you can safely paddle in the swifter current. You will need to be aware that is is common to encounter downed trees that may required a short portage.
Check Turtle Creek water levels before you head out on the creek
WI DNR information on removal of trees blocking safe passage for paddlers.
Paddling Turtle Creek on Miles Paddled Website – with detailed maps and trip reports on many sections of Turtle Creek
Turtle Creek I: Sweet-Allyn Park to Dickop Street
Turtle Creek II: Sweet-Allyn Park to Dickop Street
Turtle Creek III: O’Riley Road to Sweet-Allyn Park
Turtle Creek IV: Springs Park to School Section Road
Turtle Creek V: School Section Road to O’Riley Road
Miles Paddled Video: Turtle Creek I: Sweet-Allyn Park to Dickop Street
Miles Paddled Video: Turtle Creek II: Sweet-Allyn Park to Dickop Street
Overview: Riverfacts
Video: Wisconsin Paddles
Check map for Turtle Creek launch locations. – See full map below.
This Turtle Creek Mileage Chart will help you plan your trip! Click to download PDF
The Rock River
A great deal of the Rock River after the confluence is very wooded and scenic. You can paddle down river until Rockford, but you will need to portage around the Rockton Dam.
Click here for a detailed Beloit Area Water Trails Map
Check Rock River water levels.
The Rock River Trail
Turtle Creek joins the Rock River in an an area called The Confluence. It is located approximately at the halfway point on the Rock River Trail. There is a launch site with parking at this location, 306 Dickop Street, South Beloit, IL. You can paddle the Rock River Water Trail along the 320-mile river course from the headwaters in Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin, to the Mississippi River at Rock Island, Illinois. The Rock River Trail is a “National Water Trail” and “Scenic and Historic Route”. For more information about the Rock River Trail and the dams on the Rock River visit their website.