Discover where to go kayaking in Wisconsin for an adventure!
It’s impossible to travel Wisconsin without being involved in any water activity at all.
Just some examples: the Dells is considered the waterpark capital of the world, Door County is renowned for its charming waterfronts, and Wisconsin as a state has 56,884 miles of river!
Speaking of water activities—kayaking still stands as the perfect watersport for both extroverts and introverts alike in my travel journal.
So, without further adieu, let’s cover where to go kayaking in Wisconsin based on my observations as a repeat visitor of this water-loving state!
You, dear reader, support this blog. When you purchase through a link, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Pssst…??!! You can’t get enough Wisconsin posts? Have a look at my other posts:
- Outdoor Things to Do in Wisconsin
- Southern Wisconsin Hiking Trails
- Waterfalls in Northeast Wisconsin
Table of Contents
Overview: Top Spots for Kayaking in Wisconsin
- Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
- Lake Michigan’s Door County
- Kettle Moraine State Forest
1. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
There’s no better place to immerse yourself in nature and water in Wisconsin than the Apostle Islands.
This scenic archipelago is one of the best kayaking places in Wisconsin.
Apart from having stunningly crystal clear waters, these islands also host dramatic rugged shorelines, lighthouses, and picture-perfect beaches that make kayaking an exploration, not just an activity.
Oh, and have I mentioned that these islands let you enjoy kayaking in Wisconsin caves?
It’s not every day that you can explore those, right?
For obvious reasons, I highly recommend kayaking during sunset.
Especially if you’re staying at some of the best campsites in Wisconsin, in one of the Apostle Islands!
Friendly tip: If you have limited kayaking experience, your safest option is to join kayaking tours in the Apostle Islands. But if you’re comfortable kayaking solo, feel free to rent one from rental companies like Lost Creek Adventures or bring your own inflatable kayak!
2. Wisconsin River
If you want easy access to river kayaking in Wisconsin Dells, it can’t really get easier than checking out the waters of the Wisconsin River.
It’s right in the heart of downtown and it’s very close to some of the best waterfalls in Wisconsin.
The Wisconsin River is divided into two main sections in the Dells: the Upper Dells and the Lower Dells.
I usually recommend exploring either of these river sections through a boat tour.
But if you want a more immersive experience that brings you closer to nature’s excitement, kayaking is the way to go instead.
I personally think that the Upper Dells offers the best kayaking in Wisconsin Dells as it has stunning views of amazing rock formations and side canyons.
Plus, it usually has less boat and kayak traffic, especially if you launch before 10 AM.
If you want to start kayaking near Wisconsin Dells, it can’t get much more convenient and fun than heading to the Upper Dells!
We had an incredibly easy time renting from Dells Watersports, so we highly recommend that company.
3. St. Croix River
Up next is the Saint Croix River, the scenic border between Wisconsin and Minnesota.
This river combines picturesque views of dramatic cliffs and subtle currents.
So, it’s one of the best kayaking spots in Wisconsin if you want a little touch of excitement without being too overwhelmed by the rapids.
Our go-to launch site is Interstate State Park. We follow the currents there until we reach our ideal end point.
If you want little to no stress getting your kayak back to your starting point, I recommend renting your kayak from rentals like Taylor’s Falls Canoe & Kayak Rental.
They usually offer shuttle services that’ll take you back to your starting point and handle the kayak’s transportation themselves. Your kayak trips in Wisconsin will be much more relaxing and enjoyable!
4. Lake Michigan’s Door County
Door County is undeniably one of the best places to enjoy family vacations in Wisconsin.
Wanna know one of the main reasons?
It has incredibly easy access to Lake Michigan, one of the best kayaking lakes in Wisconsin, and Green Bay, one of the state’s most picturesque bodies of water.
Paddle through Green Bay if you love exploring hidden caves and spotting wildlife.
If you prefer to see iconic shorelines or the sun setting over the horizon, check out the other side of Lake Michigan instead.
There are literally countless kayaking spots in Door County. They’re conveniently surrounded by kayak rental companies like Lakeshore Adventures.
To name some, I have launched towards the Cana Island Lighthouse on the lakeside and am exploring the north of Garret Bay to discover shipwrecks.
Then, anytime we want the adrenaline of paddling by enormous ships, Sturgeon Bay is our go-to kayaking spot.
Of course, don’t forget to try out a Cave Point kayaking tour in Door County, as it’s, tried-and-tested, one of the best things to do in Wisconsin with kids.
5. Black River
Among the best places to kayak in Wisconsin, the Black River is perhaps the most under-the-radar spot I know.
I’ve only been to this river once, when I visited the Black River State Forest last year.
After we settled in one of the campgrounds and caught enough fish for dinner, we tried kayaking down the uniquely dark river, and we were more impressed than expected.
The Black River is usually not as crowded as the earlier entries on this list.
Plus, the trees on the shore arch throughout the river, creating a tunnel-like shade that offers a unique experience.
On that note, if you want intimate kayaking or canoeing sessions alone or with your friends and family, there’s really no better kayaking place than this river.
Wisconsin Classic SweatshirtWanderust Box SignWisconsin HoodieBest Loop Hikes Wisconsin GuideUnder Armour BackpackWisconsin Haunted Travel Guide
6. Manitowoc River
Want a kayak trip filled with plot twists? Yup, it exists.
To experience it yourself, you must ride the currents of the Manitowoc River with your kayak (we rented ours from Manitowoc Marina).
From the east of Lake Winnebago, paddling through the Manitowoc River starts at a wide, calm section of the river.
It is a relaxing ride to enjoy the view.
But don’t get too comfy as miles later, you’ll enter a much narrower section with quicker rapids (up to class II) that are much more interesting, exciting, and, for some, even a little frightening.
As we paddled through this lake, we spotted bald eagles. So, make sure to watch out for rare wildlife sightings!
7. Kettle Moraine State Forest
Kettle Moraine State Forest is a 56,000-acre forest in Southeastern Wisconsin.
Within its massive area, lots of families and travelers enjoy various recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and biking in this forest all-year-long.
Of course, lots of people also found excitement and comfort in swimming, fishing, and kayaking in the lakes and rivers within the Kettle Moraine State Forest!
In the Northern Unit of the forest, you can launch your kayaks at Long Lake and Ottawa Lake, which are both very popular spots for kayaking.
In the Southern Unit, feel free to explore Lulu Lake for a more secluded kayaking exploration (I rent from the Forward Outdoor company when I visit this lake)!
I prefer kayaking in this forest just weeks after summer. It’s one of my go-to fall activities in Wisconsin. Undeniably, it is one of the best places for fall Colors in Wisconsin!
8. Fox River
Take a break from fast rapids and enjoy Wisconsin’s Fox River’s calm and gentle current.
If you’re still in your baby steps toward becoming a kayaker, this river is the best starting point of your journey.
For me, the best way to experience Fox River is to book a tour with your friends or family from companies like the Fox River Kayaking Co.
Depending on the tour you book, you may traverse through historic waterlocks, see the shoreline of Doty Island, or enjoy sunset views.
Want to explore on your own?
Independent kayak rentals are also available from the same company. Watch out for ducks, white bass, and geese!
9. Rib Mountain State Park
If you want to try hiking in Northern Wisconsin, you’ll hear locals recommend Rib Mountain State Park.
But trust me, this park is more than its trails and scenic land sightseeing opportunities.
Lake Wausau, situated along the Wisconsin River, is minutes away from the state park.
It features many boat landings and is a hotspot for water skiing, fishing, and kayaking.
In fact, this is where I enjoyed my best canoeing in Wisconsin.
We usually enter the lake through Bluegill Bay County Park, only about 10 minutes away from my go-to kayak rental company.
It offers many clean facilities, including a new playground for the little ones, a volleyball court for the sporty people, and well-maintained trails for the explorers.
10. Oconto River
The last time I visited Door County, I took a quick day trip to see the beautiful city of Oconto Falls.
At first, I was only curious about the scenery, food, and the place’s vibe.
However, I couldn’t ignore the calm flow and scenic surroundings of the Oconto River.
So, my friends and I rented kayaks from Lakewood Ski & Sport and paddled down the river until we reached the Bay of Green Bay!
I must say, this river is more unique than most kayaking spots mentioned in this list (it’s not too secluded or quiet.
If you launch your kayak in Holtwood Park as we did, you’ll see a mix of trees and residential homes as you paddle through the waters.
When we reached the Bay, we stalled for about half an hour in the water and watched one of our friends cast his fishing line from his kayak.
He caught a white sucker and a hog sucker, which are apparently common fish varieties in the area.
11. Lower Chippewa River
The Chippewa River is a popular stop for tourists and locals who want to enjoy water activities such as fishing, canoeing, and even wildlife watching.
It’s usually divided into two sections: the Upper Chippewa River and the Lower Chippewa River.
Between these two sections, I prefer kayaking in the lower section.
Why? Well, there are quite a few reasons.
To name one, although the Lower Chippewa River is known to be slower and calmer than its upper counterpart, it still has numerous sloughs and channels that offer faster or more challenging paddling opportunities.
So, just steer your way through the meanders or channels, depending on your adventure tolerance!
Moreover, since the Lower Chippewa River is not as remote as the upper section, you’ll find numerous access points as you paddle your way to the Mississippi River.
It’ll be straightforward to tailor where you enter or exit the river as you enjoy your trip.
I rented a kayak from a company called Loopy’s because, apart from kayaks, they also offered tube and canoe rentals!
12. Turtle-Flambeau Flowage
Upon my first glimpse of the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage, I could totally see why it’s the locals’ go-to destination for kayaking in Northern Wisconsin.
It’s home to a combined area of over 19,000 acres of lakes.
Although it was created to prevent flooding, it now feels like a place purposely built for solitude and rest.
I highly recommend staying at least 3 days camping in Turtle-Flambeau Flowage.
We spent most of our first day there kayaking from the launch point to the campsite and setting up our tents.
Then, on the second day, we returned to the waters to kayak, fish, and explore!
Some organizations, like True North Expeditions, host camp-style paddle events in Turtle-Flambeau Flowage.
Joining these events is probably one of the best things to do in Northern Wisconsin.
Unfortunately, due to schedule conflicts, we couldn’t join one. So, we had the half-fun, half-nerve-wracking experience of navigating the flowage on our own instead!
Wisconsin Classic SweatshirtWanderust Box SignWisconsin HoodieBest Loop Hikes Wisconsin GuideUnder Armour BackpackWisconsin Haunted Travel Guide
My conclusion on kayaking in Wisconsin
Visiting Wisconsin without kayaking is like going to a tropical paradise and skipping the beach.
In both instances, you’d miss out on the experience’s best part.
So, whether you’re visiting the Dells or any other city in the state, explore Wisconsin’s scenic lakes and rivers through your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard!
You’ll never regret kayaking in Wisconsin!
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
