Spring Lake

Spring Lake is a 592-acre lake located in Dassel, Meeker County, offering a public boat ramp for kayakers, canoeists, and boaters. The access is situated north of County Road 42 on Hillary Path, a minimally maintained road—plan accordingly for rough conditions. This is a small, rustic access point best suited for smaller watercraft rather than large boats.

**What to Know Before You Go:** Spring Lake is very shallow with numerous snags throughout, so navigate carefully, especially when launching and retrieving. The lake's character makes it ideal for kayaks and canoes but requires caution and local knowledge. The DNR recently completed maintenance and site improvements at this access, though work may occasionally affect availability. The area is part of Spring Lake Park Reserve near the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, with nearby wildlife habitat managed by the Litchfield Wetland Management District, making it a good spot for wildlife viewing paddlers.