Access Site
WI
Big Sand Lake Boat Launch
City: Phelps, WI
County: Vilas County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 46.07196901, -88.97471640
Air Temp: --
Location
Interactive access map
Loads when you reach this section.
Nearby Gauge Conditions
Deerskin River near Phelps, WI
2.7 mi away
Iron River at Caspian, MI
10.4 mi away
Real-time data from USGS Water Services
About This Access Site
**Overview**
Big Sand Lake is a 1,434-acre lake in Vilas County offering public boat access via a dedicated ramp in Phelps. The lake reaches a maximum depth of 55 feet and features moderately clear water, making it suitable for kayaking, canoeing, and motorized boating. This is a solid destination for paddlers seeking a larger water body with established access.
**Practical Information**
The lake supports diverse fish species including panfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. Personal watercraft must operate at "slow no wake" speed within 200 feet of shoreline. Two nearby campgrounds—Kentuck Lake and Spectacle Lake—offer reservable camping options within 10 miles if you're planning an overnight trip. Wisconsin boating regulations are actively enforced, so ensure your watercraft is properly registered and you're familiar with local rules before launching.
**Getting Started**
For detailed information about this access point and other boat landings on Big Sand Lake, visit bigsandlakewi.org. An interactive guide is available to help you locate optimal fishing spots and check conditions before heading out.
Big Sand Lake is a 1,434-acre lake in Vilas County offering public boat access via a dedicated ramp in Phelps. The lake reaches a maximum depth of 55 feet and features moderately clear water, making it suitable for kayaking, canoeing, and motorized boating. This is a solid destination for paddlers seeking a larger water body with established access.
**Practical Information**
The lake supports diverse fish species including panfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, and walleye. Personal watercraft must operate at "slow no wake" speed within 200 feet of shoreline. Two nearby campgrounds—Kentuck Lake and Spectacle Lake—offer reservable camping options within 10 miles if you're planning an overnight trip. Wisconsin boating regulations are actively enforced, so ensure your watercraft is properly registered and you're familiar with local rules before launching.
**Getting Started**
For detailed information about this access point and other boat landings on Big Sand Lake, visit bigsandlakewi.org. An interactive guide is available to help you locate optimal fishing spots and check conditions before heading out.