How do I access South Shore Park?

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

What activities are available at South Shore Park?

South Shore Park 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 South Shore Park?

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

When is the best time to visit South Shore Park?

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

What are the water conditions at South Shore Park?

Water conditions at South Shore Park include calm, sheltered.

Is South Shore Park good for beginners?

Yes, South Shore Park 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.

Calm water stretches under a blue and cloudy sky.

Photo by wisconsinpictures on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Summer

South Shore Park

Milwaukee, WI · Boat Ramp · Public

South Shore Park is a public boat ramp on Lake Michigan near Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, ada accessible. 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 Lake Michigan near Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

South Shore Park is a public access point on Lake Michigan in Wisconsin, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and ada accessible.

Located about 5 min from Milwaukee, South Shore Park is a convenient option for Milwaukee-area paddlers.

Planning a trip? Read our complete paddler's guide to Milwaukee.

Launch points, tips, and local conditions →

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make South Shore Park ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access South Shore Park?: South Shore Park is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at South Shore Park?: South Shore Park 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 South Shore Park?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit South Shore Park?: The best time to paddle at South Shore Park is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at South Shore Park?: Water conditions at South Shore Park include calm, sheltered.
Is South Shore Park good for beginners?: Yes, South Shore Park 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: 42.9958, -87.8820