SECTION FOUR
PRESS BRIEFINGS 2
NAMEKAGON RIVER: WISCONSIN’S MOVING NATIONAL PARK
Washburn County Tourism Association, Spooner,
WI--Located in beautiful Northwest Wisconsin, the
Namekagon River is a hidden gem. The Namekagon is part
of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway and was one
of the original eight rivers designated as wild and scenic
rivers by the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act of 1968. Access is
easy being close to the communities of Cable, Hayward,
Trego and Danbury. Well-marked landings, campsites,
and portages make the Namekagon a great opportunity
for all experience levels. We’ve put together a handful of
tips for you to help you have the best experience possible
on the Namekagon River: Wisconsin’s Moving National
Park.
1.
Pitch a tent along the banks of the river. With
over 60 river access campsites along the Namekagon,
you’re bound to find the perfect spot to set up camp for
the night. You’ll be able to wake up to the sounds of the
Namekagon including the occasional call of the loon.
2.
Bring your binoculars and bird identification
book. There are over 150 birds known to nest along the
shores of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway which
includes the Namekagon. Some of the favorite feathered
visitors include the Great Blue Heron, Trumpeter Swan,
Great Horned Owl and of course the Bald Eagle.
3.
Plan your route based on the season and water
levels. While the Namekagon is navigable during all
open water months, there are stretches of river that
can be challenging during times of low water. Typically
spring time is the best time to paddle the upper portion
of the river near Cable where water levels tend to be
lower in the later season. Check the river conditions on
NamekagonRiver.org.
4.
Rent equipment from a river outfitter. If you
don’t want to hassle with transporting equipment and
arranging vehicles at your put in and take out sites, a river
outfitter might be the way to go.
5.
Consider setting up a guided fishing trip. Have
you ever been fly fishing on a Wisconsin river? There’s no
time like the present to learn the art of fly fishing. Expert
guides will get you set up with equipment and the perfect
spot to learn or just improve your fly fishing skills.
6.
Be Prepared. This may sound pretty basic, but
when you’re miles from your vehicle, it’s best to plan ahead
on your supplies to make sure you have what you need for
your trip. Dry bags for your gear are essential in the off
chance that your canoe or kayak tip. This will help keep
your camping supplies, food, and even your cell phone or
camera dry. Life jackets are always recommended; in fact
they are required to be in your vessel.
7.
Visit the Namekagon River Visitor Center. If
you happen to be coming to the river between Memorial
Day and Labor Day, stop by the Namekagon River Visitor
Center located in Trego. Learn about the history of the
river, see the types of animals you’ll find on the banks
or in the river itself, and speak directly to a park ranger
for trip planning. If you’re hitting the river in a shoulder
season, trip planning and river i nformation are available
at the area visitor centers as well.
8.
We’ve saved our best (and most important) tip
of all for last. Have fun. Make memories. Enjoy the river.
When you’re out on the Namekagon you are truly getting
away from all of your daily tasks, worries and things that
distract us. Enjoy that time. Share your Namekagon time
with someone you love and focus on making memories
with them. Those are the things you’ll look back on in 20
years and cherish (or poke fun at your loved one if they’re
the one who tipped the canoe). Sit back and enjoy the
nature. You are in a national park after all
###
For more information: Michelle Martin, Executive
Director, Washburn County Tourism Association.
Volume 02 No. 03 | 2018