At one time the Baraboo River was blocked by 4 dams. Today the dams have been all removed making the Baraboo river one of the longest stretches of open river in the country.
My personal favorite day trip (From 4-7 hours) begins in North Freedom, Wisconsin at Fireman’s Park where there is an ADA compliant landing and parking available. Restrooms are located in the park as well. From here you can cruise with the current all day until you reach the Glenville Landing on Highway 113 on the east side of the city of Baraboo. (Review or trip map below.)
On this section of “The Boo”, you can see heron, geese, ducks and an occasional bald eagle if you are lucky. Some enjoy trying a bit of fishing along the route as well. There are a few interesting rock formations just west of the city of Baraboo and a small waterfall if you can find it!
As you cross under 2 tall bridges (New & Old Highway 12), you’ll begin to enter the city of Baraboo. About a mile past the bridge, look to your left for a landing. Here at Haskin’s Park, you can take a quick break before navigating through the city. From this point onward the river will become a series of shallow riffles and class II rapids depending on the water flow.
As you continue down the river, you’ll discover a couple more boat landings. (You may take a break at the Driftless Glen) Soon, you’ll be sliding past Circus World, where if you are lucky, you may have elephants sharing the water with you!
The Baraboo River at most times is a slow shallow river with areas of shallow rapids. Under normal conditions, the Baraboo is a fairly easy river to paddle by canoe or kayak. The small rapids are just enough to make the trip exciting for inexperienced paddlers but not scary. If the water is too low you can find yourself getting hung up often and needing to get out and walk around shallows (Most often in late summer). That said, during floods the river can be quite swift and should not be paddled by anyone other than experienced paddlers. Luckily the river is rarely running that high.
Trip Map
Check The Water Level!
Personally, we do not feel the gauge at Haskin’s Park is a good indicator of water levels. High water levels at Rock Springs or Cty X are more telling. When you see the water nearing “Action” stages at these locations, do not paddle the Baraboo unless you are skilled and know the river.
Current Observations
Rental & Shuttle Service?
For rental & shuttle services we invite you to check out Baraboo River Canoe & Kayak Rentals.