Set in the Wisconsin River Valley, Wausau/Central Wisconsin has great water recreation. There are many boat landings that provide convenient access to the water on the Wisconsin River, its tributaries and area lakes. To find access to our abundant waterways, check out our Wausau Area Boat Landing Map.

Swimming

The area lakes and rivers provide a great way to beat the summer heat! Check out swimming beaches in the Wausau area. For those looking for even more fun, check out area pools and waterparks!

Boating

The area lakes provide plenty of enjoyment for waterskiing, especially in the open waters of Lake Wausau, Lake DuBay and the Eau Pleine Flowage. Take an evening to learn a few pointers from the Water Walkers Waterski Team when they perform at two area lakes.

Canoeing & Kayaking

Whether you’re interested in an all-day canoe or kayak trip or just want a few hours out on the water, the Wisconsin River is the place to be. That all-day trip starts in Merrill and ends in Wausau. All along, the water moves slowly, shallow in some places, very deep in others. Only a few minor rapids lay along the way and those can be portaged if necessary. The trip is about 20 miles. Select one of several alternate starting points. A rule of thumb to determine travel time is to figure two miles per hour on the river. Please note that areas adjacent to the landings may be private property. Please be respectful of landowners' property and privacy. Find more information at www.wvic.com.

The scenic Wisconsin River and Lake Wausau are part of a major canoe route. The Domtar Canoe Portage around the Rothschild Dam allows canoeists to continue down the river to enjoy some of Central Wisconsin’s finest canoeing. 

Wausau has a world class canoe and kayak competition site at Whitewater Park in downtown Wausau, one of only two urban whitewater race courses in the country. The park hosts some of the worlds largest competitions, including three major events multiple recreational releases, paddling camps, training clinics and learn-to-kayak classes.

Fishing

If you are looking for some fishing action, the Wausau area has you covered! Visit our fishing page for more information.