stlouis-to-caruthersville

Mile 903.5 RBD — Donaldson Point Dikes

John Ruskey

26 Apr 2026 � 1 min read

A seven mile series of sandbars and willow clump forest islands has grown up along the Donaldson Point Dikes, RBD along Donaldson Point. From mile 907 all the way down to mile 900 there are 11 dikes in all and almost each one has a sandy island or a flat sandbar in between. The best camping is found where willow forests have grown upon taller clumps of sand and mud, notably at LBD 904 and LBD 903. Here you can find better protection from the sun and wind amongst the young willows and cottonwoods, and enjoy the pleasure of your own island. The dikes go under around 20CG. In higher water levels (above 30CG) you can stay off main channel and find a wonderful line of travel behind all of the islands with good potential for wildlife viewing. Hug the islands, or hug right bank descending and find sandy landings amongst mature forests along the shore, much of it protected by Donaldson Point Conservation Area.

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