How do I access Cotton Tail?

Cotton Tail is a public boat ramp in Nebraska. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Cotton Tail?

Cotton Tail 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 Cotton Tail?

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

When is the best time to visit Cotton Tail?

The best time to paddle at Cotton Tail is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Cotton Tail?

Water conditions at Cotton Tail include calm, sheltered.

Is Cotton Tail good for beginners?

Yes, Cotton Tail 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.

rule of thirds photography of person standing beside body of water

Photo by Jeffrey Hamilton on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Cotton Tail

Martell, NE · Boat Ramp · Public

Cotton Tail is a public boat ramp on lake near Martell, Nebraska. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, ada accessible. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

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

Boat Ramp accessing local lake waters near Martell, Nebraska. calm and sheltered conditions.

Cotton Tail provides shoreline access to local lake waters in Nebraska, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.

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. Midwestern waterways provide reliable paddling through the warmer months, with vast open spaces and uncrowded conditions.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and ada accessible.

Cotton Tail sits about 5 min from Martell, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Cotton Tail ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Cotton Tail?: Cotton Tail is a public boat ramp in Nebraska. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Cotton Tail?: Cotton Tail 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 Cotton Tail?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Cotton Tail?: The best time to paddle at Cotton Tail is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Cotton Tail?: Water conditions at Cotton Tail include calm, sheltered.
Is Cotton Tail good for beginners?: Yes, Cotton Tail 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: 40.6455, -96.7642