Orwell Reservoir State Water Access Site

Orwell Lake is a 608-acre lake in scenic Otter Tail County near Fergus Falls, offering public boat access via two ramps on the south shore. The lake has a maximum depth of 25 feet and a 20-mile shoreline, making it suitable for various paddling and boating activities. Note that Orwell Lake permits only boats with motors of 10 horsepower or less, keeping the lake relatively quiet for kayakers and canoeists.

The south shore access is primitive and best suited for duck boats and flat-bottom boats, so kayakers and canoeists should be aware of the basic facilities. Most standard 12-18 foot boats can be launched at these ramps. There are no launch fees unless accessing the site requires a vehicle permit. The lake is surrounded by wildlife habitat managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, with additional lakes and wetlands in the vicinity offering expanded exploration opportunities for paddlers.