Your Perfect Day at the Lake: Hodag-approved Water Adventures

When summer hits the Northwoods, there’s no better place to cool off, unwind, or fuel your sense of adventure than on the water in Rhinelander. Whether you’re gliding across a glassy lake, paddling a peaceful river, or splashing at a local beach, there’s a Hodag-approved water adventure waiting for you.

Lakes for Every Kind of Fun

With over 1,100 lakes in Oneida County, you’ll never run out of places to explore. In Rhinelander, some of the most popular lakes include:

• Boom Lake – Right in town and connected to the Wisconsin River and neighboring lakes, Boom Lake is a favorite for boating the chain and watersports. It’s also home to Hodag Park, a popular spot for families and events.
• Lake Thompson & Lake George– Larger lakes great for pontoon cruises, fishing trips, and watersports like wakeboarding or skiing.
• Lake Julia – A 240-acre lake, popular for fishing including panfish, northern pike and even musky.

These lakes all offer public boat landings, and many have nearby resorts, beaches, or parks that make it easy to spend the whole day outdoors.

Take A Swim

Nothing says “summer” like a day at the beach. Rhinelander offers several spots perfect for swimming, playing, and soaking up the sun:

• Hodag Park, which sits on the shores of Boom Lake just north of downtown Rhinelander, is home to a sandy swimming beach, fishing dock, and playground. Enjoy great views of the popular Boom Lake!
• Almon Park is a quieter option, perfect for a peaceful swim or an afternoon float. You’ll find a picnic area and swimming beach as well as nature trails and a disc golf course.

Dip Your Paddle

Rhinelander’s location in the heart of the Northwoods means you’ll discover beautiful lakes, flowages and rivers to explore via canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard.

The Pelican and Wisconsin Rivers are favorites for kayakers and canoers looking for a relaxed ride through wooded shorelines and quiet bends. Or, explore Hanson Lake, a quiet 35-acre lake.

Cast a Line

Did you know the Rhinelander Area offers outstanding fishing, too? Hodag Country is home to dozens of famous fishing lakes, whether you’re looking for bass, musky, walleye or panfish. Popular lakes in the area include Boom Lake, Lake George and the Willow Flowage. Find more fishing info here.

See a Ski Show

Once a week, visitors can head to Hodag Park on Boom Lake to watch Hodag Water Shows, a waterski team that’s been offering free shows every summer since the early 1970s. Shows are held at 7 pm Sundays throughout the summer, and concessions are available on site. See more Rhinelander events here.

Where to Rent

Whether you want to take it slow or crank up the speed, there’s a rental option that fits your adventure style.

Head to Mel’s Trading Post to rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. It is recommended to call ahead to make reservations.

If you’re looking for a boat, check out Shoeder’s RV & Marine for rentals. They offer boats for day-cruising and watersports, including pontoon boats and fishing boats. Contact them for rental availability.

So, pack your beach bag, grab a paddle, and set your sights on the water—because in Rhinelander, every splash is Hodag-approved.

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