Three ways to get on the water in Middleton
Here are three ways to get out onto the water in Middleton — from renting a kayak to dropping your own boat — spend some
Did you know Middleton is located on the shores of Lake Mendota? Here are three ways to get out onto the water in Middleton — from renting a kayak to dropping your own boat — spend some time soaking up the sun!
- Rent a Boat at Marshall Boats.
Explore Lake Mendota on a canoe, kayak (double kayak), stand-up paddleboard (kids, single, giant or mega), fishing boat, or pontoon by visiting Marshall Boats on Allen Boulevard. They even offer interactive maps for paddle spots. Marshall Boats is open (summer hours) from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. If you want to get out on the lake with a group, you can rent a pontoon boat that holds up to 12 people and there are options to rent a pontoon with a captain, allowing for guests to bring food and alcohol (otherwise, no alcohol is permitted on a boat). Marshall Boats also offers events, group rentals and private parties at its rooftop patio.
- Relax in Mendota County Park
Find a tranquil place to enjoy a scenic lake view in Mendota County Park & Campground. The park has a swimming area, a launch for small boats, and picnic facilities. There’s also a campground for people who want to spend more time in the park. The park is located off County Road M, near the intersection of County Roads Q and M on the northern shore of Lake Mendota.
- Launch an adventure at the Marshall Park
Whether you’ve got a kayak strapped to the roof of your car or hauling a fishing boat on a trailer, Marshall Park (which is in Middleton but under Madison management) is a great place to launch your own boat. There are bathroom facilities and parking available, and a minimal fee.
Other aquatic options
If looking to get in some water time outside of Lake Mendota, Middleton has a few other wonderful places with water to explore. Here are a few other ways to enjoy the water in Middleton:
- Take a hike along the soothing Pheasant Branch Creek at Pheasant Branch Conservancy.
- Cool off at the Splash Pad at Lakeview Park – which opens May 26 (2025)!
- Enjoy the interactive water equipment and waterslides at the Bauman Community Pool, open June 11 to August 24 (2025).