an aerial view of a person in a kayak
Photo by Joe Pohle on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Hill Lake (South)

Hill City, MN · Boat Ramp · Public

Hill Lake (South) is a public boat ramp on Hill Lake (South Basin) near Hill City, 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

Good

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

About This Location

Hill Lake (South) offers lake paddling on Hill Lake (South Basin) in Minnesota. Located near Hill City.

Lake paddlers in Minnesota will appreciate Hill Lake (South), which offers direct access to Hill Lake (South Basin) and its surrounding waters.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. June through August is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Hill City takes about 5 min, putting Hill Lake (South) within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Hill Lake (South) 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 Hill Lake (South)?
Hill Lake (South) is a public boat ramp in Minnesota. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Hill Lake (South)?
Hill Lake (South) 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 Hill Lake (South)?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Hill Lake (South)?
The best time to paddle at Hill Lake (South) is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Hill Lake (South)?
Water conditions at Hill Lake (South) include calm, sheltered.
Is Hill Lake (South) good for beginners?
Yes, Hill Lake (South) 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: 46.9860, -93.5880

Quick Facts

Region
Great Lakes
Getting There
~5 min from Hill City
Get Directions

46.9860, -93.5880

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