How do I access Big Lake (North)?

Big Lake (North) is a public boat ramp in Minnesota. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Big Lake (North)?

Big Lake (North) 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 Big Lake (North)?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Big Lake (North)?

The best time to paddle at Big Lake (North) is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Big Lake (North)?

Water conditions at Big Lake (North) include calm, sheltered.

Is Big Lake (North) good for beginners?

Yes, Big Lake (North) 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.

a group of people in a small boat on a lake

Photo by Wyatt Harrom on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Big Lake (North)

Cushing, MN · Boat Ramp · Public

Big Lake (North) is a public boat ramp on Big Lake near Cushing, Minnesota. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

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

Limited

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

About This Location

Lake access at Big Lake (North) near Cushing, Minnesota. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Situated on Big Lake in Minnesota, Big Lake (North) is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.

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.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 5 min from Cushing, Big Lake (North) is a convenient option for Cushing-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Big Lake (North) ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

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 Big Lake (North)?: Big Lake (North) is a public boat ramp in Minnesota. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Big Lake (North)?: Big Lake (North) 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 Big Lake (North)?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Big Lake (North)?: The best time to paddle at Big Lake (North) is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Big Lake (North)?: Water conditions at Big Lake (North) include calm, sheltered.
Is Big Lake (North) good for beginners?: Yes, Big Lake (North) 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: 46.1487, -94.6896