Brown's Ford, a public boat ramp on Big River, is located in Hillsboro. The drive from St. Louis covers roughly 40 miles as the crow flies. If it's full, Merrill Horse in De Soto is 3.4 miles away.
| Type | Public boat ramp |
|---|---|
| Address | Hillsboro, MO |
| Water | Big River |
| Surface | unpaved |
| Launch fee | not in our data, check the signs at the launch |
State agency for boat ramps around Hillsboro: Missouri Department of Conservation (accesses); Missouri State Highway Patrol Water Patrol Division (boating rules).
Compare all 6 launches on Big River. Boat ramps on Big River
More in our guide: How to launch a boat from a trailer, plus ramp etiquette.
Illustration Bestseller Attwood 7524A7 snap-handle drain plug The forgotten drain plug is the classic ramp mistake. A spare in the glove box saves the day. View on Amazon 
Illustration Top pick Bungee dock lines with quick connect, shock absorbing Clip on in seconds while your partner parks the trailer. The bungee keeps the boat off the dock in wakes. View on Amazon 
Illustration Master Lock trailer coupler lock (fits 1-7/8", 2", 2-5/16") Your trailer sits alone in the ramp lot all day. A coupler lock keeps it where you left it. View on Amazon We haven't tested these ourselves; we chose them by size and specs. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Check the current price on Amazon.
Illustration The classic ramp mistake
A spare snap-handle plug in the glove box, and the full launch checklist that keeps the line moving.
Launch checklist
Illustration Loading the boat
How to winch your boat on in a minute, and the small upgrades that make the drive home safer.
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Brown's Ford is in Hillsboro, Missouri. Navigation apps get you there via the map pin, which marks Brown's Ford itself.
It gives you access to Big River.
No fee information yet for Brown's Ford, so if you know it, tell us and we'll add it.
Usually yes, as long as you keep the lane at Brown's Ford clear for trailers. The nearest dedicated kayak launch is Canoe Launch in Sullivan in Sullivan, about 22 miles away.
Merrill Horse in De Soto (3.4 miles), Morris Mill in Cedar Hill (5.2 miles) and Mammoth Access in De Soto (6.5 miles).
Boat Ramps Nearby