Few things compare to the quiet of a paddle dipping into still water at sunrise. Kayaking in Wisconsin reaches its finest on Lake Namakagon, 3,300 acres of protected Northwoods water ringed by the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. At Lakewoods Resort on Lake Namakagon in Cable, WI, you can launch from our private sandy beach and be gliding past pine-lined bays within minutes.
With five generations of Northwoods hospitality dating back to 1906, our resort has been sending paddlers onto this lake for well over a century.
Why Lake Namakagon Is Ideal for Kayaking
As the 10th largest natural lake in Wisconsin, Lake Namakagon offers more than 40 miles of shoreline, much of it undeveloped national forest. That means long stretches of quiet water, sheltered bays, and wooded islands, including Paines Island, where eagles nest each spring, and Anderson Island.
Watch for common loons, bald eagles, great blue herons, otters, and beavers along the shallows. For anyone chasing the best kayaking in Wisconsin, Lakewoods Resort is hard to match.
Paddle the Headwaters of the Namekagon River
One of the lake’s best features is what flows out of it. Lake Namakagon is the headwaters of the Namekagon River, which runs roughly 100 miles before joining the St. Croix. Both rivers are protected as part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway that the National Park Service manages.
The upper river begins as a narrow, cold-water trout stream winding through northern forest and marsh, with stretches of rocky rapids. Paddlers who want a longer kayaking outing in the Wisconsin Northwoods can arrange a shuttle.
Kayak, Canoe, and Paddleboard Rentals
Kayaking in Wisconsin does not have to mean hauling your own boat north. Our full-service marina rents kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, hydrobikes, pontoons, and fishing boats.
Canoeing in Wisconsin remains a favorite for families who want to paddle together, while stand-up paddleboarding, the fastest-growing water sport in the world, gives confident swimmers a playful way to explore the shallows.
When you want a break from paddling, our sandy beach and heated pools are waiting back at the resort, along with golf, biking, and off-road trails.
Lake Namakagon Rentals for Your Paddling Getaway
Our Northwoods resort in Cable, WI, offers lodge rooms, lakeside condos, golf villas, and lake homes that sleep groups of 16 or more, including one set on its own island. The condos sit a short walk from the marina and sandy beach, putting your kayak just steps from the water.
When you paddle back in, our Lakeside Restaurant and Buck’s Bar & Grill serve hearty Northwoods meals, and the Friday Fish Fry is a tradition worth building your weekend around.