Abstract: The rock spurs, is important for controlling the river geomorphology, the development of the shoal and the stability of the shoreline in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, and directly influences the economic and social activities about flood control, navigation and shoreline utilization. Previous studies have been mentioned rock spurs in Wuhan, whereas rarely present careful and comprehensive research. In this paper, based on the collection and analysis of a large number of historical documents, combined with field investigation, this study analyzed the distribution and composition of rock spurs and its influence on the early city development of Wuhan. We found that two important rock spurs, Hongshiji and Zhangwangji rock spurs besides Huanghuji and Yugongji rock spurs where mentioned frequently by local people. The geomorphology of river block in Guishan-Sheshan mountains decided by these rock spurs in Wuhan section, and also has an important effect on the channel characteristics of Yangtze River. Various rock spurs yield different effects for city development, the Hongshiji and Zhangwangji rock spurs were found in flood control, urban construction and water conservancy projects, Huanghuji and Yugongji rock spurs are more commonly found in literature of humanities and social sciences. There are play a supporting role in the planning and construction of the city walls of Hanyang and Wuchang cities, and are base points of the embankment construction along the Yangtze River. Furthermore, it contains military, landscape significance and city cultural value.