Kayakers on a peaceful lake surrounded by autumn foliage at sunset

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

O'Brien Road

Baileys Harbor, WI · Boat Ramp · Public

O'Brien Road is a public boat ramp on Kangaroo Lake near Baileys Harbor, 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

Launch into Kangaroo Lake near Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

O'Brien Road is a public access point on Kangaroo Lake in Wisconsin, giving paddlers a convenient entry to 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 Baileys Harbor takes about 5 min, putting O'Brien Road within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make O'Brien Road ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • 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.
  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access O'Brien Road?
O'Brien Road is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at O'Brien Road?
O'Brien Road 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 O'Brien Road?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit O'Brien Road?
The best time to paddle at O'Brien Road is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at O'Brien Road?
Water conditions at O'Brien Road include calm, sheltered.
Is O'Brien Road good for beginners?
Yes, O'Brien Road 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: 45.0256, -87.1652

Quick Facts

Region
Great Lakes
Getting There
~5 min from Baileys Harbor
Get Directions

45.0256, -87.1652

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More Paddling on Kangaroo Lake

1 other launch on this water body