Population (2010)

Unincorporated

Introduction

Folletts is a sleepy town at the crossroads of two highways; there are a few places nearby that are very popular with sportsmen.

Visitor Information

Direct your questions to the Clinton Chamber of Commerce (721 S. 2nd St.; 563.242.5702).

History

In 1837, William D. Follett of Sodus, New York arrived in this area and made a land claim; in short order he established ferry service across the Wapsipinicon River. The town that he initially called Sodus was incorporated as Folletts in 1884 and grew to a respectable size, because it was a livestock shipping point for the Chicago, Rock Island, & Pacific Railroad. However, by the Great Depression, growth had essentially ceased and the town was disincorporated in 1933.

Exploring the Area

Sports & Recreation

If you feel the urge for a little Frisbee golf, stop at Folletts Park.

South of town in the Wapsipinicon River floodplain, Hagenson Pond is popular for fishing, as is the adjacent Ben Martinsen Wildlife Area, where you can also hunt or go for a hike on mostly undeveloped paths.

For information on any of these three parks, contact the Clinton County Conservation Board (563.847.7202).

Looking for information on other Mississippi River communities? Check out Road Tripping Along the Great River Road, Vol. 1. Click the link above for more. Disclosure: This website may be compensated for linking to other sites or for sales of products we link to.

Where to Sleep

Camping

Within the Ben Martinsen Wildlife Area (563.847.7202), you are free to pitch a tent wherever you like, but please pack out everything you pack in. There is no fee, but there are also no services.

Where to Go Next

Heading upriver? Check out Camanche.

Heading downriver? Check out Princeton.

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©Dean Klinkenberg, 2024, 2021, 2018,2013,2011