How do I access Merrick State Park - South?

Merrick State Park - South is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Merrick State Park - South?

Merrick State Park - South supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Merrick State Park - South?

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

When is the best time to visit Merrick State Park - South?

The best time to paddle at Merrick State Park - South is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Merrick State Park - South?

Water conditions at Merrick State Park - South include sheltered, tidal.

Is Merrick State Park - South good for beginners?

Yes, Merrick State Park - South is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Kayakers on a peaceful lake surrounded by autumn foliage at sunset

Activity

KayakingSUPSea KayakingBeginner

Conditions

BayShelteredTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Merrick State Park - South

Fountain City, WI · Boat Ramp · Public

Merrick State Park - South is a public boat ramp on Mississippi River - Fountain City Bay near Fountain City, Wisconsin. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, paddleboarding, sea kayaking. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Bay

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, SUP, Sea Kayaking

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

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

About This Location

Merrick State Park - South offers bay paddling on Mississippi River - Fountain City Bay in Wisconsin. Located near Fountain City.

Merrick State Park - South sits on Mississippi River - Fountain City Bay in Wisconsin, providing a launchpoint where sheltered bay waters meet tidal currents.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. SUP enthusiasts will appreciate the sheltered conditions for flatwater paddleboarding. Great Lakes paddling combines freshwater vastness with coastal-style conditions and scenery.

Expect sheltered and tidal conditions on the water. The best time to visit is June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Merrick State Park - South sits about 5 min from Fountain City, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm bay waters make Merrick State Park - South ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Explore the shoreline for hidden coves and calm side channels.
•Bring binoculars — bays are excellent for bird and marine wildlife viewing.
•Check for any no-paddle zones or restricted areas near ports.
•Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Merrick State Park - South?: Merrick State Park - South is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Merrick State Park - South?: Merrick State Park - South supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Merrick State Park - South?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Merrick State Park - South?: The best time to paddle at Merrick State Park - South is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Merrick State Park - South?: Water conditions at Merrick State Park - South include sheltered, tidal.
Is Merrick State Park - South good for beginners?: Yes, Merrick State Park - South is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered 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: 44.1500, -91.7497