a small boat in the middle of a body of water
Photo by Drew Dau on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Sunrise

Storm Lake, IA · Boat Ramp · Public

Sunrise is a public boat ramp on Storm Lake near Storm Lake, Iowa. 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

Lake access at Sunrise near Storm Lake, Iowa. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Situated on Storm Lake in Iowa, Sunrise is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water. 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.

Sunrise sits about 5 min from Storm Lake, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Sunrise ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Sunrise?
Sunrise is a public boat ramp in Iowa. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Sunrise?
Sunrise 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 Sunrise?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Sunrise?
The best time to paddle at Sunrise is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Sunrise?
Water conditions at Sunrise include calm, sheltered.
Is Sunrise good for beginners?
Yes, Sunrise 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: 42.6261, -95.1755

Quick Facts

State
Iowa
Region
Midwest
Getting There
~5 min from Storm Lake
Get Directions

42.6261, -95.1755

Best Paddling in Iowa

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Sunrise

Sign In