Boating At Big Stone Lake In Minnesota

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

Big Stone Lake, located on the border between Minnesota and South Dakota, is a scenic and serene destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Stretching approximately 26 miles in length, this natural wonder offers a unique blend of recreational opportunities and stunning landscapes that attract visitors year-round.

Surrounded by the Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge and nearby state parks, the lake provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and exploring the natural beauty of the region. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, picnicking, and photography in the adjacent wildlife areas.

Boating is a popular activity on Big Stone Lake, as its expansive waters offer plenty of space for leisurely cruises and thrilling water sports. Boaters can take in the picturesque views of the lake's shoreline and enjoy a sense of serenity as they navigate its waters.

Several well-maintained boat launch ramps around the lake provide easy access for boaters to launch their vessels. Additionally, for those who do not have their own boats, nearby marinas offer rental boats, including fishing boats and pontoons, allowing everyone to experience the joys of boating.

The lake's close proximity to various cities and towns in both Minnesota and South Dakota makes it a convenient destination for visitors. Ortonville in Minnesota and Big Stone City in South Dakota are some of the nearby cities where visitors can find accommodation, dining options, and other amenities.

Fishing enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise at Big Stone Lake, which is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. The lake is well-stocked with a variety of fish species, including walleye, northern pike, bass, and panfish, making it a popular spot for anglers of all ages.

The boating season on Big Stone Lake typically spans from late spring to early fall when the weather is pleasant, and the lake is most inviting for outdoor activities. Camping is available at nearby state parks and campgrounds, offering visitors the chance to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area and enjoy a memorable outdoor experience.

Boating, camping and fishing.

Boating and fishing are the big attraction at Big Stone Lake, a 12,600-acre lake on the western border of the state, at Ortonville. The lake is big enough for pleasure boats, pontoons and fishing boats, yet small enough to welcome canoes and kayaks. There are a few boat launch ramps on the MN side of the lake, with the most popular being at Big Stone Lake State Park. The nearly 60 miles of shoreline house the thousands of rocks and boulders on the lake bottom, for which the lake is named. Fishing for bass, walleye, pike and perch is available year round, as ice fishing is a very popular activity in winter. The lake also has populations of white bass and sunfish. During spring, summer and fall anglers will find excellent fishing from the shore, fish houses, and all types of boats. Boat launch ramps, camping, an RV park and lodging is all available at or nearby the lake.

Area Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES

Camping

Big Stone Lake State Park Campground - 320 839-3663

Lakeshore RV Park - 320 305-7159

Big Stone Lake campgrounds in South Dakota

Big Stone Lake Map

Fishing

Fish species found in Big Stone Lake include largemouth bass, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, green sunfish, rock bass, white bass, yellow perch and northern pike.

Largemouth bass White crappie Walleye Bluegill Green Sunfish Rock Bass White Bass Yellow Perch Northern pike