How do I access North Garrison Bay?

North Garrison Bay is a public boat ramp in Minnesota. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at North Garrison Bay?

North Garrison Bay 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 North Garrison Bay?

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

When is the best time to visit North Garrison Bay?

The best time to paddle at North Garrison Bay is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at North Garrison Bay?

Water conditions at North Garrison Bay include calm, sheltered.

Is North Garrison Bay good for beginners?

Yes, North Garrison Bay 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.

an aerial view of a lake surrounded by trees

Photo by Joe Pohle on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

North Garrison Bay

Garrison, MN · Boat Ramp · Public

North Garrison Bay is a public boat ramp on Mille Lacs Lake near Garrison, 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

North Garrison Bay offers lake paddling on Mille Lacs Lake in Minnesota. Located near Garrison.

Lake paddlers in Minnesota will appreciate North Garrison Bay, which offers direct access to Mille Lacs Lake 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 Garrison takes about 10 min, putting North Garrison Bay within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access North Garrison Bay?: North Garrison Bay is a public boat ramp in Minnesota. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at North Garrison Bay?: North Garrison Bay 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 North Garrison Bay?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit North Garrison Bay?: The best time to paddle at North Garrison Bay is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at North Garrison Bay?: Water conditions at North Garrison Bay include calm, sheltered.
Is North Garrison Bay good for beginners?: Yes, North Garrison Bay 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: 46.3266, -93.7804