two people in a canoe on a lake
Photo by Gary Fultz on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Ship's Wheel

Baudette, MN · Boat Ramp · Public

Ship's Wheel is a public boat ramp on Rainy River near Baudette, 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

Limited

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

Public launch on Rainy River in Minnesota. Beginner-friendly river paddling near Baudette.

Situated along Rainy River in Minnesota, Ship's Wheel provides convenient river access for kayakers, canoeists, and other paddlers.

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.

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

Located about 10 min from Baudette, Ship's Wheel is a convenient option for Baudette-area paddlers.

Paddling Tips

  • 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.
  • River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Ship's Wheel?
Ship's Wheel is a public boat ramp in Minnesota. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Ship's Wheel?
Ship's Wheel supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Ship's Wheel?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Ship's Wheel?
The best time to paddle at Ship's Wheel is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Ship's Wheel?
Water conditions at Ship's Wheel include mild current.
Is Ship's Wheel good for beginners?
Yes, Ship's Wheel 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: 48.7939, -94.7001

Quick Facts

Region
Great Lakes
Getting There
~10 min from Baudette
Get Directions

48.7939, -94.7001

Best Paddling in Minnesota

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Ship's Wheel

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!