Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3

Wawaka, IN · Boat Ramp · Public

Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3 is a public boat ramp on Elkhart River near Wawaka, Indiana. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3 offers lake paddling on Elkhart River in Indiana. Located near Wawaka.

Lake paddlers in Indiana will appreciate Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3, which offers direct access to Elkhart River and its surrounding waters.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. Midwestern waterways provide reliable paddling through the warmer months, with vast open spaces and uncrowded conditions.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3 sits about 5 min from Wawaka, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3 ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
  • Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3?
Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3 is a public boat ramp in Indiana. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3?
Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3 supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3?
The best time to paddle at Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3 is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3?
Water conditions at Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3 include calm, sheltered.
Is Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3 good for beginners?
Yes, Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area - Mallard Roost #3 is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 41.4277, -85.5020

Quick Facts

State
Indiana
Region
Midwest
Getting There
~5 min from Wawaka
Get Directions

41.4277, -85.5020

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