As the train crossed into Campbell, Wisconsin, I glanced out the window and realized we were gliding over a town that’s actually in the Mississippi River. How cool is that? Campbell isn’t on the riverbank. It’s on an island. More specifically, the town occupies part of a large island bordered by the Mississippi River, the Black River, and Lake Onalaska.
Locals have traditionally called it French Island, named after Joseph French, one of the earliest settlers, who arrived back in May 1851. (I assume he did not arrive via Amtrak.) Today, French Island is a blend of small-town life and riverfront scenery, with neighborhoods, boat launches, and even an airport. La Crosse Regional Airport sits right in the middle of it.
It’s the kind of place that seems to exist halfway between land and water, with views in every direction. If the train had stopped there with time to deboard, I’d probably have found a bait shop, a diner, and someone willing to give a quick tour by pontoon.
French Island is the only part of Campbell with permanent residents and it is home to fewer than 5,000 people. Also, for crossword puzzle lovers: It’s one of the only U.S. towns surrounded by three distinct bodies of water.
