St. Feriole Island

This 240-acre island on the east channel of the Mississippi River has a mix of habitats including a beach, floodplain forest and grassland. In the spring, floodwaters create mud flats ideal for migrating shorebirds. One may see American Avocets along the beach. A trail leads away from the parking lot to a floodplain hardwood forest where warblers and other migrant songbirds can be seen. Peregrine Falcons hunt ducks along this stretch of the river corridor. The island is also an area of earliest settlement and activity in Prairie du Chien. Site of the Battle of Prairie du Chien during the War of 1812. Three Indian treaties were signed here. Ideal for walking and biking. The island also offers boat landings and picnic areas. Two approaches to the island at Blackhawk Avenue and Washington Street. The Villa Louis Historic Site, St. Feriole Gardens, Mississippi River Sculpture Park, and St. Feriole Island Ball Park are located on the island. Also the site for many major events in Prairie du Chien.