Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Best Time to Visit
County Road 42
County Road 42 is a public boat ramp on Minnesota River near Nicollet, Minnesota. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.
At a Glance
Water Body
River
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Good
Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
About This Location
Launch into Minnesota River near Nicollet, Minnesota. Beginner level with mild current water.
County Road 42 is a public launch site on Minnesota River in Minnesota, serving as a popular put-in for paddlers exploring this section of the river.
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. Great Lakes paddling combines freshwater vastness with coastal-style conditions and scenery.
Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
County Road 42 sits about 5 min from Nicollet, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.
Paddling Tips
- •Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
- •Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
- •Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
- •Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access County Road 42?
- County Road 42 is a public boat ramp in Minnesota. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at County Road 42?
- County Road 42 supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at County Road 42?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit County Road 42?
- The best time to paddle at County Road 42 is during summer. June through August
- What are the water conditions at County Road 42?
- Water conditions at County Road 42 include mild current.
- Is County Road 42 good for beginners?
- Yes, County Road 42 is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 44.2010, -94.1948
Quick Facts
- State
- Minnesota
- Region
- Great Lakes
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Nicollet
44.2010, -94.1948
Best Paddling in Minnesota
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Minnesota River
6 other launches on this water body
Land of Memories Park
Minnesota · 8.0 mi
Veteran's Bridge
Minnesota · 9.7 mi

St. Peter
Minnesota · 14.6 mi
Riverside Park
Minnesota · 15.0 mi
Minnecon Municipal Park
Minnesota · 15.4 mi
Buessman Bridge (County Road 13)
Minnesota · 18.7 mi
Nearby Paddling
Swan Lake (South) Nicollet Bay
Minnesota · 5.7 mi
Crystal Lake
Minnesota · 6.5 mi
Middle Lake (South)
Minnesota · 6.6 mi
Loon Lake
Minnesota · 7.4 mi
Middle Lake (North)
Minnesota · 8.0 mi
Land of Memories Park
Minnesota · 8.0 mi