Top 15 Lakes around Waunakee
Best lakes around Waunakee are primarily found in the surrounding Dane County area, including the Madison Chain of Lakes and Lake Wisconsin. This region is characterized by a mix of large, recreational lakes and smaller, more intimate waterways. The natural landscape offers diverse opportunities for water-based activities and wildlife observation. Waunakee serves as a gateway to these varied aquatic environments.
Best lakes around Waunakee
- The most popular lakes is Lake Mendota, a lake that is very biodiverse, with over 34 common species of fish and 255 bird species. It is highly regarded for boating, sailing, fishing, and kayaking.
- Another must-see spot is Howard Temin Lakeshore Path, a trail named after a University of Wisconsin-Madison professor of oncology who won the Nobel Prize. The path travels from North Park Street to Oxford Road, offering views of the lake.
- Visitors also love Picnic Point Mound Group, an ancient archaeological site. It features burial mounds and other archaeological sites, with some mounds still visible today.
- Waunakee is known for its diverse lakes, including large recreational lakes and smaller fishing ponds. These bodies of water offer opportunities for fishing, boating, paddling, and wildlife viewing.
- The lakes around Waunakee are appreciated by the komoot community. With 12 upvotes and 5 photos, the komoot community has shared their experiences and insights.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Lake Mendota
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Picnic Point Mound Group
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Howard Temin Lakeshore Path
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Tent Colony Caretakers Woods, Lakeshore Nature Preserve
Highlight (Segment) • Forest
The land here slopes fairly steeply down toward the lake, giving it a north-facing aspect. This means that these woods receive less direct sunlight than is true of some other parts of the Preserve, making the soil here moister and cooler. The tendency of the habitat is thus toward mesic (moist and cool) vegetation.
Like Second Point Woods to the northwest, the trees here are a complicated mixture of older, more mature individuals that once grew in a more open forest, and much younger individuals that are successionally shifting the overall vegetation in a mesic direction. The oldest trees are principally red oaks, some of them spreading their branches wide to indicate that they once grew in an open pasture or savanna, and others showing the more vertical growth patterns we associate with trees that grew in a forest. Beneath these older oaks, younger maples, basswoods, and slippery elms are becoming a more important part of the understory, pointing toward a future in which oaks will be a much less significant part of these woods.
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Lakeshore Nature Preserve
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Tips from the Community
There are four “extant” (still visible) mound groups you can visit on the main campus, all but one of them located within the boundaries of the Lakeshore Nature Preserve. Recently these mound groups were surveyed and entered in a special burial sites catalog maintained by the Wisconsin Historical Society. The label associated with each location includes a number used in the state Archaeological Site Inventory (ASI) maintained by the Wisconsin Historical Society. The site surveys establish a 25-foot preservation buffer around the mounds.
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Picnic Point Mound Group (DA121) The sixth extant mound is a large hemispherical form visible on your right just before you reach The Narrows (where the main trail dips near the beach).
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This 8-acre triangular patch of woodland lies immediately east of Biocore Prairie, and is named for the Caretaker’s House that once stood at the southwestern apex of the triangle. The land here slopes fairly steeply down toward the lake, giving it a north-facing aspect. This means that these woods receive less direct sunlight than is true of some other parts of the Preserve, making the soil here moister and cooler. The tendency of the habitat is thus toward mesic (moist and cool) vegetation. Like Second Point Woods to the northwest, the trees here are a complicated mixture of older, more mature individuals that once grew in a more open forest, and much younger individuals that are successionally shifting the overall vegetation in a mesic direction. The oldest trees are principally red oaks, some of them spreading their branches wide to indicate that they once grew in an open pasture or savanna, and others showing the more vertical growth patterns we associate with trees that grew in a forest. Beneath these older oaks, younger maples, basswoods, and slippery elms are becoming a more important part of the understory, pointing toward a future in which oaks will be a much less significant part of these woods.
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Major hub for Lakeshore Nature Preserve. Direct access to Bicore Prarie, Picnic Point, Howard Temin Path, Young Farmhouse, 1918 Marsh, Big Oak Trail, Angler’s Cove (Second Frautchi Point), Frautschi Point, Raymer’s Cove, Garrett’s Cove, Bambi’s Pad, and Eagle Heights Effigy Mounds. Parking is paid except for certain hours. Has a bike rack & bus stop. No public restrooms. Close access to trails & the University. Parking garage & other university lots nearby. Parking at Frautschi Point & Raymer’s Cove are free. Preserve is open 4AM-10PM. Howard Temin doesn’t close.
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Around 2,000 years ago, local inhabitants initiated the burial of their dead in the sacred mounds that scatter across the Point. At one time, Picnic Point boasted seven mounds, but relic hunters destroyed one mound before 1912. Today, the Preserve harbors numerous burial mounds and other ancient archaeological sites, reflecting the rich history and cultural significance of the area.
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Whether you're seeking a quiet reading spot under a shady tree or a relaxing picnic by the lake, the preserve offers a tranquil refuge from the city's hustle and bustle. From wetlands and marshes to meadows and forests, the preserve boasts a variety of ecosystems teeming with life.
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The Howard Temin Lakeshore Path was named after a University of Wisconsin-Madison professor of oncology who won the Nobel Prize. The path travels from North Park Street (east) to Oxford Road (west).
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Lake Mendota formed around 15,000 years ago when glacial ice began to melt. It's very biodiverse, with over 34 common species of fish and 255 bird species.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What lakes near Waunakee are best for fishing?
For excellent fishing opportunities, consider Lake Waubesa and Lake Kegonsa, both known for abundant bluegill and crappie. Lake Wisconsin is a prime destination for walleye, sauger, white bass, and crappie. Lake Mendota is also highly regarded for perch, crappie, and white bass, while Token Creek Pond offers local fishing for species like bluegill, trout, and bass.
Are there family-friendly activities or lakes near Waunakee?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly activities. Lake Mendota is great for boating, sailing, and kayaking, with Governor Nelson State Park on its shores providing a sand beach and picnicking areas. The Howard Temin Lakeshore Path offers scenic views suitable for family walks. Lake Kegonsa State Park also provides camping and wildlife viewing, making it a good family option.
Where can I find walking or hiking trails near the lakes?
You can enjoy walks along the Howard Temin Lakeshore Path, which offers views of Lake Mendota. For more extensive hiking, explore the trails at Governor Nelson State Park on Lake Mendota or Lake Kegonsa State Park. The Waunakee Marsh Wildlife Area, associated with Six Mile Creek, also provides opportunities for hiking and birding. For a wider selection of trails, check out the Hiking around Waunakee guide.
What historical or cultural sites are located near the lakes?
The Picnic Point Mound Group is an ancient archaeological site near Lake Mendota, featuring burial mounds that reflect the rich history and cultural significance of the area. These mounds, some still visible today, were created by local inhabitants around 2,000 years ago.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around Waunakee's lakes?
The lakes around Waunakee are rich in biodiversity. Lake Mendota alone is home to over 34 common fish species and 255 bird species. The Waunakee Marsh Wildlife Area, near Six Mile Creek, is an excellent spot for birding and wildlife viewing, particularly in its extensive wetlands. Lake Kegonsa State Park also offers good opportunities to observe local wildlife.
Are there opportunities for paddling activities like kayaking or paddleboarding?
Yes, paddling is popular on several lakes. Lake Mendota and Lake Monona are highly regarded for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding due to their size and accessibility. Six Mile Creek offers a more intimate paddling experience through marsh and wooded areas. While swimming is not allowed, Raymer's Cove is also mentioned as a spot for kayaking.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Waunakee?
The lakes near Waunakee offer activities year-round. Summer is ideal for swimming, boating, and water sports. Spring and fall provide pleasant weather for hiking and wildlife viewing, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Winter brings opportunities for ice fishing on lakes like Monona, Mendota, and Kegonsa, depending on ice conditions.
Are there any hidden gem lakes or natural areas to explore?
While not a lake, Six Mile Creek offers a unique, intimate natural experience for paddling and wildlife viewing through the Waunakee Marsh Wildlife Area. For a quieter fishing spot, Token Creek Pond is a local option. The Tent Colony Caretakers Woods within the Lakeshore Nature Preserve offers a serene woodland environment with unique mesic vegetation.
Are there any specific regulations for fishing or boating on these lakes?
Fishing and boating regulations are set by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. For specific details on permits, catch limits, and boating rules for lakes like Mendota, Monona, Kegonsa, Waubesa, and Wisconsin, it's best to consult the official Wisconsin DNR website at dnr.wisconsin.gov.
What are the main differences between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona for recreation?
Lake Mendota is the largest of the Madison chain, offering expansive views and ample space for sailing, boating, and diverse fishing. It features Governor Nelson State Park. Lake Monona, while smaller, is located in Madison's downtown district, providing a unique blend of natural beauty with urban conveniences, making it easily accessible for year-round panfishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Are there any accessible paths or facilities near the lakes?
The Howard Temin Lakeshore Path is a paved trail offering views of Lake Mendota, which is generally accessible. Many county and state parks around the lakes, such as Governor Nelson State Park, strive to provide accessible facilities, including parking and restrooms. It's advisable to check specific park websites for detailed accessibility information.
Can I find cafes or dining options near the lakes?
Given that Lake Monona is located in Madison's downtown district, you'll find numerous cafes and dining options easily accessible around its shores. Areas surrounding Lake Mendota, particularly near Madison, also offer various amenities. For options closer to Waunakee, exploring the village's cultural and recreation resources at waunakee.gov might provide more localized information.
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