Long Tom Lake

Long Tom Lake is a 147-acre lake located in Ortonville, Big Stone County, Minnesota, offering public boat access via a dedicated launch facility. The lake has a maximum depth of 15 feet, making it suitable for kayakers, canoeists, and recreational boaters of varying skill levels. The concrete boat ramp provides straightforward access for launching small to medium-sized watercraft.

This scenic area is conveniently positioned near two significant wildlife refuges: Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge and Northern Tallgrass Prairie National Wildlife Refuge, offering excellent opportunities to combine paddling with wildlife viewing and nature exploration. The relatively shallow depth and modest size of Long Tom Lake make it a good option for beginners or those seeking a more sheltered paddling experience, while the nearby refuges provide opportunities for more extended paddling adventures in the region.