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

Myre Big Island State Park

Hayward, MN · Boat Ramp · Public

Myre Big Island State Park is a public boat ramp on Albert Lea Lake near Hayward, 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

Myre Big Island State Park offers lake paddling on Albert Lea Lake in Minnesota. Located near Hayward.

Lake paddlers in Minnesota will appreciate Myre Big Island State Park, which offers direct access to Albert Lea Lake and its surrounding waters.

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.

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 Hayward takes about 5 min, putting Myre Big Island State Park within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Myre Big Island State Park 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 Myre Big Island State Park?
Myre Big Island State Park is a public boat ramp in Minnesota. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Myre Big Island State Park?
Myre Big Island State Park 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 Myre Big Island State Park?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Myre Big Island State Park?
The best time to paddle at Myre Big Island State Park is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Myre Big Island State Park?
Water conditions at Myre Big Island State Park include calm, sheltered.
Is Myre Big Island State Park good for beginners?
Yes, Myre Big Island State Park 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: 43.6296, -93.2911

Quick Facts

Region
Great Lakes
Getting There
~5 min from Hayward
Get Directions

43.6296, -93.2911

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