Best Places to Kayak Near Nelson, MN

30 public launch points within 50 miles of Nelson, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.

30 nearby30 Lakes
← All paddling in Minnesota
green trees beside lake during daytime

Smith Lake

Minnesota · 0.8 mi

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green trees beside lake during daytime

Lake Osakis (South)

Minnesota · 3.8 mi

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green trees beside lake during daytime

Lake Geneva (South)

Minnesota · 5.3 mi

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an aerial view of a person in a kayak

Lake Burgen

Minnesota · 5.7 mi

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Lake Victoria

Minnesota · 5.7 mi

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a group of birds in a lake

Union Lake

Minnesota · 5.8 mi

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calm body of water

Lake Osakis (Northwest)

Minnesota · 5.9 mi

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a group of people in a small boat on a lake

Lake Geneva (North)

Minnesota · 6.6 mi

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Maple Lake (East)

Minnesota · 7.8 mi

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Lake Agnes

Minnesota · 7.9 mi

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Maple Lake (North)

Minnesota · 8.1 mi

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green trees beside body of water during daytime

Krueger Creek (Northeast)

Minnesota · 8.2 mi

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calm body of water

Battle Point

Minnesota · 8.2 mi

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Rotary Beach (Northwest)

Minnesota · 8.8 mi

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Leven Lake

Minnesota · 9.0 mi

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two people in a canoe on a lake

Guernsey Lake

Minnesota · 9.2 mi

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Cowdry Lake

Minnesota · 9.5 mi

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calm body of water

Lake Andrew

Minnesota · 9.7 mi

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Villard Lake

Minnesota · 9.7 mi

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Lake Carlos (East)

Minnesota · 9.8 mi

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green trees beside body of water during daytime

Lake Reno (Northeast)

Minnesota · 9.8 mi

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Lakota Lake

Minnesota · 9.9 mi

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two people in a canoe on a lake

Arrowhead Resort and Conference Center

Minnesota · 9.9 mi

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Westport Lake

Minnesota · 10.0 mi

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Turtle Lake

Minnesota · 10.4 mi

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Lakota Lake (South)

Minnesota · 10.9 mi

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a group of people in a small boat on a lake

Lake Carlos (West)

Minnesota · 10.9 mi

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Lake Carlos (Northeast)

Minnesota · 11.0 mi

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an aerial view of a lake surrounded by trees

Lake Louise

Minnesota · 11.1 mi

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Kayakers on a peaceful lake surrounded by autumn foliage at sunset

Lake Carlos State Park

Minnesota · 11.3 mi

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best places to kayak near Nelson, MN?

Top picks near Nelson include Smith Lake, Lake Osakis (South), Lake Agnes. In total there are 30 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on lakes.

What types of paddling can I do near Nelson?

Near Nelson 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 Nelson?

Yes! Most public boat ramps near Nelson are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.