Rearing Ponds Land Use Area

The Rearing Ponds boat ramp in Big Stone City provides access to Big Stone Lake, a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, and recreational boating. Located on the Minnesota-South Dakota border in Roberts County, this launch point offers convenient access to the lake's paddling opportunities. **Note:** A South Dakota park entrance license is required to use this boat ramp and access the surrounding recreation area.

The site is open year-round and provides a gateway to explore Big Stone Lake and nearby natural attractions, including the Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge (10,540 acres) and the Northern Tallgrass Prairie National Wildlife Refuge. The area is ideal for wildlife viewing and offers diverse paddling experiences across the lake. Paddlers should verify current conditions and any specific facility amenities before visiting, as ramp facilities can vary seasonally.