Namekagon

The Namekagon was designated as one of the original 8 Wild and Scenic Rivers in 1968 as part of the St. Croix Wild and Scenic River. This major tributary of the St. Croix has been a recreational destination for more than a century and remains popular for day trips and multi-day journeys through Wisconsin's Northwoods. Trips begin as high up as the Namekagon Dam. The communities of Cable, Seeley, Hayward, and Trego are located along the river which largely follows Highway 63 and then Highway 77. Formal access points are provided every few miles at bridge crossings and parks along the river, some of which provide overnight camping. Despite the number of access points that make it easy to customize a trip to fit your skills and time avaialable, the river still retains its wild character. Along the river designated camp sites (small 8 person sites and large 16 person sites) serve river runners with fire rings and pit toilets. The available campsites can get full on summer weekends.

Most use open canoes for trips on the river and while much of the run is flatwater there are some easy class II rapids that require manuvering. The river is administered by the National Park Service which provides additional information on rules and regulations along with detailed maps and advice on how to enjoy your trip:

St. Croix/Namekagon Wild and Scenic River

The main sections of the river include the following:

1) Namekagon Dam to Hayward Landing (33.4 miles)

Namekagon Dam to Cable Wayside (13.5 miles, class I)

The river here is narrow and shallow with stretches of rocky rapids. Water levels can be extremely low and impassable during dry conditions. From Phillipi Landing (river mile 88.6) to Cable Wayside (river mile 86.0) water levels tend to be slightly better. The first ten miles of this stretch are isolated; expect numerous beaver dams, strainers (downed trees), and three low bridges.

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