Best Places to Kayak Near Madison, SD
30 public launch points within 50 miles of Madison, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.
Top Picks Near Madison
1Preston Public Water Access
Standout kayak fishing on the lake
2Beaver Public Water Access
Calm, sheltered water that's ideal for beginners and paddle boarding
3West Brant Public Water Access
Just 9 miles from Madison — the closest quality launch
Lake Herman State Park
South Dakota · 2.5 mi
Payne Public Water Access
South Dakota · 3.4 mi
Herman West Public Water Access
South Dakota · 3.6 mi
Johnsons Point Land Use Area
South Dakota · 4.5 mi
Walkers Point Recreation Area
South Dakota · 5.5 mi
Long Public Water Access
South Dakota · 6.8 mi
West Brant Public Water Access
South Dakota · 9.4 mi
Diamond Lake
South Dakota · 10.9 mi
East Brant Public Water Access
South Dakota · 11.1 mi
Henry Public Water Access
South Dakota · 12.0 mi
George Public Water Access
South Dakota · 12.4 mi
Island Lake
South Dakota · 14.9 mi
Island - South
South Dakota · 14.9 mi
Clear Public Water Access
South Dakota · 17.7 mi
Sinai Public Water Access
South Dakota · 18.6 mi
West 81 Public Water Access
South Dakota · 19.5 mi
East 81 Public Water Access
South Dakota · 19.6 mi
Twin Lake-Minnehaha
South Dakota · 19.9 mi
Campbell Public Water Access
South Dakota · 20.4 mi
Whitewood Public Water Access
South Dakota · 24.2 mi
Goldsmith Public Water Access
South Dakota · 24.4 mi
Scott Lake
South Dakota · 25.7 mi
Thompson Southwest Public Water Access
South Dakota · 25.9 mi
Beaver Public Water Access
South Dakota · 26.0 mi
Thompson Northeast Public Water Access
South Dakota · 26.1 mi
Flandreau Public Water Access
South Dakota · 26.2 mi
Lake Thompson Recreation Area
South Dakota · 26.6 mi
Lake Thompson Land Use Area
South Dakota · 27.9 mi
Preston Public Water Access
South Dakota · 28.1 mi
Lake Henry Land Use Area
South Dakota · 28.3 mi
Paddling Near Other Cities
Widen your search to towns within an hour of Madison.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to kayak near Madison, SD?
Top picks near Madison include Preston Public Water Access, Beaver Public Water Access, West Brant Public Water Access. In total there are 30 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on lakes.
What types of paddling can I do near Madison?
Near Madison you'll find opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding. Most locations offer beginner-friendly conditions with public boat ramp access.
Are there free kayak launches near Madison?
Yes! Most public boat ramps near Madison are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.