How do I access North Arbutus?

North Arbutus is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at North Arbutus?

North Arbutus 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 North Arbutus?

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

When is the best time to visit North Arbutus?

The best time to paddle at North Arbutus is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at North Arbutus?

Water conditions at North Arbutus include calm, sheltered.

Is North Arbutus good for beginners?

Yes, North Arbutus 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 row of canoes sitting on the shore of a lake

Photo by Cesar Andriola on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

North Arbutus

Merrillan, WI · Boat Ramp · Public

North Arbutus is a public boat ramp on Black River - Lake Arbutus near Merrillan, 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 Black River - Lake Arbutus in Wisconsin. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Merrillan.

Paddlers visiting Black River - Lake Arbutus in Wisconsin can launch from North Arbutus, 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.

North Arbutus sits about 5 min from Merrillan, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make North Arbutus 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 North Arbutus?: North Arbutus is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at North Arbutus?: North Arbutus 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 North Arbutus?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit North Arbutus?: The best time to paddle at North Arbutus is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at North Arbutus?: Water conditions at North Arbutus include calm, sheltered.
Is North Arbutus good for beginners?: Yes, North Arbutus 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: 44.4382, -90.6984