How do I access Smoky Lake?

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

What activities are available at Smoky Lake?

Smoky 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 Smoky Lake?

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

When is the best time to visit Smoky Lake?

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

What are the water conditions at Smoky Lake?

Water conditions at Smoky Lake include calm, sheltered.

Is Smoky Lake good for beginners?

Yes, Smoky 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.

Kayakers on a peaceful lake surrounded by autumn foliage at sunset

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Smoky Lake

Phelps, WI · Boat Ramp · Public

Smoky Lake is a public boat ramp on Smoky Lake near Phelps, 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

Smoky Lake offers lake paddling on Smoky Lake in Wisconsin. Located near Phelps.

Lake paddlers in Wisconsin will appreciate Smoky Lake, which offers direct access to Smoky Lake and its surrounding waters.

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.

Smoky Lake sits about 10 min from Phelps, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

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 Smoky Lake?: Smoky Lake is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Smoky Lake?: Smoky 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 Smoky Lake?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Smoky Lake?: The best time to paddle at Smoky Lake is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Smoky Lake?: Water conditions at Smoky Lake include calm, sheltered.
Is Smoky Lake good for beginners?: Yes, Smoky 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: 46.0804, -88.9528