How do I access South Drive?

South Drive is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at South Drive?

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

What amenities are at South Drive?

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

When is the best time to visit South Drive?

The best time to paddle at South Drive is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at South Drive?

Water conditions at South Drive include sheltered, tidal.

Is South Drive good for beginners?

Yes, South Drive 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.

man in red jacket riding on blue kayak on body of water during daytime

Photo by Ethan Walsweer on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingSUPSea KayakingBeginner

Conditions

BayShelteredTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

South Drive

Mosinee, WI · Boat Ramp · Public

South Drive is a public boat ramp on Wisconsin River - Lake Du Bay near Mosinee, 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

Limited

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

About This Location

Launch into Wisconsin River - Lake Du Bay near Mosinee, Wisconsin. Beginner level with sheltered and tidal water.

South Drive sits on Wisconsin River - Lake Du Bay in Wisconsin, providing a launchpoint where sheltered bay waters meet tidal currents.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. 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.

South Drive sits about 10 min from Mosinee, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Watch for boat traffic, especially in narrow channels and near marinas.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access South Drive?: South Drive is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at South Drive?: South Drive supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at South Drive?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit South Drive?: The best time to paddle at South Drive is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at South Drive?: Water conditions at South Drive include sheltered, tidal.
Is South Drive good for beginners?: Yes, South Drive 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: 44.7024, -89.6873