Local Sea Scouts Explore Towhead Island During Mississippi River Adventure

Local Sea Scouts recently took a 13-mile canoe trip along the Mississippi River, camping overnight on Towhead Island while building outdoor skills, teamwork, and leadership.

The Sea Scouts began their adventure at the Riverview Boat Launch in Loud Thunder Forest Preserve, paddling to Towhead Island. Along the way, the group portaged around a lock and dam, then arrived at the island to explore, set up camp, and spend the night. The following morning, they returned to the Muscatine Riverfront.

"This type of experience pulls a young person away from technology and all the distractions of everyday life and puts them in a situation where they live in the moment, endure challenges, and grow in ways that will benefit them for the rest of their lives," said Mike Hartman, Camp Director at Camp Loud Thunder and Ship Leader for Sea Scout Ship 7127.

The Sea Scouts program emphasizes youth-led experiences, allowing students to make decisions, overcome challenges, and develop leadership skills with guidance from adult volunteers.

“Much of the magic encountered in adventures like this tie directly into the youth running the program and the adults only interjecting in cases of safety, critical learning opportunities, or requests for mentorship from the youth. Where else does a young person take on that role?” Hartman added.

The adventure provided an opportunity for local students to grow, learn new skills, build lasting friendships, and develop a deeper appreciation for the outdoors.

In December 2025, the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine announced the acquisition of Towhead Island through the generosity of the Joe W. and Betty L. Rauch Memorial Fund. The historic gift placed the island into the permanent ownership of the Community Foundation, ensuring its preservation and lasting benefit for the Muscatine community. Experiences like the Sea Scouts' adventure demonstrate how local groups are utilizing the island and bringing the donors' vision to life.

To learn more about the local Sea Scouts program, contact Mike Hartman at mikehartman133@gmail.com.