Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Best Time to Visit
Big Portage Lake
Big Portage Lake is a public boat ramp on Big Portage Lake near Land O Lakes, Wisconsin. 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
Good
Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
About This Location
Public launch on Big Portage Lake in Wisconsin. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Land O Lakes.
Paddlers visiting Big Portage Lake in Wisconsin can launch from Big Portage Lake, a well-positioned access point on the lake.
Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. Great Lakes paddling combines freshwater vastness with coastal-style conditions and scenery.
Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
Big Portage Lake sits about 5 min from Land O Lakes, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Big Portage Lake ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
- •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.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Big Portage Lake?
- Big Portage Lake is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Big Portage Lake?
- Big Portage Lake 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 Big Portage Lake?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Big Portage Lake?
- The best time to paddle at Big Portage Lake is during summer. June through August
- What are the water conditions at Big Portage Lake?
- Water conditions at Big Portage Lake include calm, sheltered.
- Is Big Portage Lake good for beginners?
- Yes, Big Portage Lake 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: 46.1162, -89.2843
Quick Facts
- State
- Wisconsin
- Region
- Great Lakes
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Land O Lakes
46.1162, -89.2843
Best Paddling in Wisconsin
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Big Portage Lake
1 other launch on this water body
Nearby Paddling
Black Oak Lake
Wisconsin · 2.9 mi
Lake Pleasant
Wisconsin · 2.9 mi

Joyce Lake
Wisconsin · 3.2 mi

Little Tamarack Flowage
Wisconsin · 3.3 mi
Stormy Lake
Wisconsin · 4.4 mi

Baker Lake
Wisconsin · 4.5 mi