Upper Dam Mill Place

Upper Dam Mill Place provides boat access to the East Branch Rock River and Upper Mayville Pond near downtown Mayville in Dodge County. This location offers a convenient launch point for paddlers exploring the upper reaches of the Rock River system and accessing the scenic pond area. The site includes a boat ramp and parking, making it suitable for kayaks, canoes, and small motorboats.

The Upper Mayville Pond offers relatively calm water ideal for recreational paddling, while the East Branch Rock River provides opportunities for longer paddling trips downstream. Paddlers should note that dam portages may be necessary depending on your intended route, as multiple dams control water levels in this section. The nearby Horicon National Wildlife Refuge—one of the largest freshwater marshes in the United States at over 33,000 acres—offers exceptional wildlife viewing and serves as an important migration corridor for waterfowl.

Before launching, check current water conditions and dam status with the Wisconsin DNR, as water levels can fluctuate seasonally. The site's proximity to downtown Mayville makes it an accessible starting point for day trips on relatively beginner-friendly water. Be sure to scout any downstream sections you plan to paddle, particularly around dam areas.