How do I access McDermott Lake?

McDermott Lake is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at McDermott Lake?

McDermott 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 McDermott Lake?

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

When is the best time to visit McDermott Lake?

The best time to paddle at McDermott Lake is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at McDermott Lake?

Water conditions at McDermott Lake include calm, sheltered.

Is McDermott Lake good for beginners?

Yes, McDermott 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.

a group of people standing on a dock next to a body of water

Photo by Vincent Y @USA on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

McDermott Lake

Mercer, WI · Boat Ramp · Public

McDermott Lake is a public boat ramp on McDermott Lake near Mercer, 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

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Public launch on McDermott Lake in Wisconsin. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Mercer.

Paddlers visiting McDermott Lake in Wisconsin can launch from McDermott Lake, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

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.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. June through August is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Mercer takes about 15 min, putting McDermott Lake within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

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 McDermott Lake?: McDermott Lake is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at McDermott Lake?: McDermott 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 McDermott Lake?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit McDermott Lake?: The best time to paddle at McDermott Lake is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at McDermott Lake?: Water conditions at McDermott Lake include calm, sheltered.
Is McDermott Lake good for beginners?: Yes, McDermott 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: 45.9992, -90.1617