Wisconsin’s best paddling spots (kayak, paddleboard, canoe)

Wisconsin’s best paddling spots (kayak, paddleboard, canoe)

Wisconsin boasts an unrivaled tapestry of over 15,000 lakes, making it a paradise for kayaking enthusiasts of all skill levels. From tranquil inland lakes nestled among lush forests to meandering riverways cutting through picturesque landscapes, Wisconsin offers diverse paddling experiences. Here are some top picks in Wisconsin..
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Rivers

Pecatonica River Access
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Exit at the Padlock Boat Launch in Darlington, WI. ~8 miles long, slower moving. Campground available at exit.
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Giese Park
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Exit at Glenville Landing in Baraboo. 🚣8 miles, approximately 3 hours to complete (it took us 3.5) 🎪 Paddle through the heart of Circus World! 🚣 Gentle paddling and small rapids (+/- 5 sections)
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Princeton Lock and Dam
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Exit in downtown Princeton, WI near Knickerbocker Landing.
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Stiles Flowage Boat Ramp
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Exit at Kwik Trip in Oconto
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Lakes

Allequash Lake
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Kayak-in Campsites
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Beaver Lake
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Motorized access is prohibited
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Elkhart Lake
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No wake on Sundays!
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Kangaroo Lake
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No motorized boats on the North end
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Lake Wingra
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No wake lake
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Marl Lake
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Beautiful blue waters
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Mirror Lake State Park
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If visiting during the summer, make sure you paddle up to Ishnala Supper Club!
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Nemahbin Lake Boat Launch
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hey there fellow adventurers! I’m Marissa, your go-to gal for uncovering Wisconsin’s hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path wonders. Having been raised right here in the heart of America’s Dairyland, I’ve made it my mission to seek out the quirky, the unique, and the lesser-known treasures that make Wisconsin such a spectacular place to explore. From tucked-away cafes with the best coffee to secret hiking trails boasting breathtaking vistas, I’ve got the inside scoop on experiences that will surprise and delight you. Whether you’re a born-and-bred Wisconsinite or a visitor looking to discover something new, join me as we uncover the magic that’s right in our own backyard! Ever wondered what makes these spots so awesome? Some I've stumbled upon myself, while others have been whispered about by locals in the know. We've put together a lineup of places that aren't plastered on every billboard. These are the real hidden gems—the kind that make your friends jealous when you show them your vacation pics. Get ready to dive into Wisconsin's coolest corners with our handpicked, offbeat destinations that promise adventure, surprise, and stories you'll be retelling for years to come! Coddiwomple (verb). kod-ee-wom-pl. to travel in a purposeful manner towards a vague destination.
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