Data Disclaimer: Water level data is provided by USGS and NOAA for informational purposes only. Verify conditions on-site before any water activities.
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The Murphy access site provides boat ramp and dock access to Hemlock Creek in Birchwood, Rusk County. This public launch point is located within a campground setting, making it a convenient staging area for paddlers and anglers exploring the 172-acre flowage. The facility includes a dock, which is particularly helpful for kayakers and canoeists loading and unloading gear.
Hemlock Creek's flowage supports panfish, northern pike, and bass fishing, indicating a relatively calm water environment suitable for recreational paddling. The area offers additional recreation beyond paddling—the nearby Ice Age Trail provides hiking opportunities with 27 miles of scenic trail running through the County Forest. This makes Murphy a good base for a multi-activity outdoor visit combining water and land recreation in Wisconsin's north-central region.