St. Francis Sunken Lands WMA offers multiple boat ramp access points (Iron Bridge, Stephen's Landing, and Oak Donnick) for paddling and fishing on the St. Francis River, a 10-mile water trail formed by the 1811-12 New Madrid earthquakes.

The area is generally free of rapids with slow current (1-2 mph), though high winds and flooding can create hazardous conditions, so paddlers should check water levels before visiting.

A free annual General Use Permit is required to use the WMA, and the area is popular for waterfowl hunting in fall/winter, so paddlers should avoid early morning hours during hunting season.