French Island, WI

French Island sits between the Mississippi and Black rivers, just across the water from downtown La Crosse. Home to around 4,300 residents, it has a relaxed, waterfront neighborhood feel with scenic views of Lake Onalaska and quiet river sloughs. Long known as the Town of Campbell, the area recently incorporated as the Village of French Island, giving residents their own local identity while maintaining a close-knit, small-town atmosphere.

Life on the island naturally centers around the water, with boat launches, marinas, and shoreline parks right down the road for fishing, boating, and kayaking. Commuting is easy, too. A quick drive across the bridge connects you directly to downtown La Crosse for jobs, hospitals, colleges, and dining, while the regional airport sits conveniently on the island's north end. It is a scenic, easygoing community that pairs everyday river recreation with quick access to city amenities.