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Lake Kegonsa
Lake Kegonsa is the southern-most lake in the Yahara River chain of (four) lakes formed when debris was left by a retreating glacier 12,000-15,000 years ago. The name Kegonsa is attributed to the Ho-Chunk whose descendants were the first humans in the region. Kegonsa means "Lake of Many Fishes." The lake is home to one county and one state park. Located on the northeast corner of the lake is Lake Kegonsa State Park open year-round from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Both pork & forest vehicle admission stickers are required. Fishing pier, picnic area, beach and pet swimming area located nearby. There are designated, accessible parking stalls. The boarding docks, restroom, and routes of travel to all, are ADA accessible.
LaFollette County Park is located on the eastern shore of Lake Kegonsa adjacent to Lake Kegonsa State Park. Note that the adjacent beach shoreline at the county park is not accessible unless you climb over above grade train tracks. Fishing is available across the street at the lock and dam on the north side of the park.
(picture above is Lake Kegonsa State Park)
For hikers and nature lovers alike the 343 acre Lake Kegonsa State Park's is comprised of three distinct ecosystems: woods, prairies and wetlands feature many native wildlife communities. Each setting providing ample opportunities to see wildlife up close, from red fox, deer and woodchucks, skunks and opossums to turtles, snakes, kingfishers and bobolinks. For birdwatchers over 60 kinds of birds call the park home. There is also a diversity of insects like luna and hawk moths, tiger and underwing, big blue or green dragonflies and variety of butterflies.
EVENTS
Thursday Fun Race 2023
Lake Kegonsa Sailing Club's Thursday Fun Races are place to learn racing skills or crew as a member on a sailboat. 2267 Williams Point, Stoughton. The evening races take place August 24th from 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM on Lake Kegonsa. The Thursday Fun Races continue through September 28th.
The Wisconsin Stern Steering Association regatta for 2023
The ice boat gathering is tentatively scheduled for the weekend of March 4-5, weather dependent. Lake Kegonsa according to veteran ice boater, Daniel Hearn has been a great place this year for ice and staging events on this scale. Final confirmation will be made by 1 PM Thursday, March 2. Check back at
iceboat.org
here after that time.
The 2023 IDNIYRA World and North American Championship
Over 100 competitors from around North America and Wisconsin will bring their DN iceboats to Lake Kegonsa for the event. DN refers to Detroit News meaning every boat in this class must be a total length of 12 feet, and have a maximum hull width of 21 inches and max. mast height of 16 feet.
Technically not boats, the ice boat more resembles a mosquito on top of the water, with a sail. If you have not seen an ice boat regatta before you are in for a treat. The colorful hulls and speed at which these vessels attain on the open ice is captivating, selfie worthy.
Who says you need to have a motor (in the winter) to have a good time?
The first scheduled qualifier race is Sunday, January 22, 2023, at 10 AM CT. The races take place on
Lake Kegonsa between January 22 - 28th (weather permitting.) For more information visit https://www.idniyra.org/
Lake Kegonsa In Depth
According to the Wisconsin DNR, the lake of "many fishes," is still one of Wisconsin’s most productive fishing lakes."
The DNR states that there is catch and release fishing on Lake Kegonsa for largemouth and smallmouth bass is open year round unless otherwise noted. Motor Trolling is allowed with up to 3 hooks, baits, or lures, per angler.
| Lake Info. | Data |
|---|---|
| Area | 3300 acres |
| Max. Depth | 32 feet |
| Median Depth | 17 feet |
| Boat landings | 4 |
| County | Dane |
| Fish | Musky, Panfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye and Catfish |
Towns Nearby
McFarland
Founded in 1856 by William H. McFarland, this town of over 10,000 was once a small resort community as it borders the eastern shore of Lake Waubesa. Today McFarland is a growing southern suburb of Madison and home to many parks and industries, as well as famous restaurants such as the Green Lantern.
Pictured is The Larson House is a Queen Anne style Victorian home built in 1898
Learn More >
Stoughton
Dynamic, historic and Norwegian Stoughton's downtown is blessed with many fully restored late 19th century commercial buildings many with new locally owned shops and restaurants. Between the Stoughton Opera House and Norwegian Heritage Center, the Livsreise (pictured left) there is always something going for a great daytrip visit.
Attractions Nearby
Apple Orchards
Pick your own, or pre-pick a great snack for your day at the lake. Two of the more well known orchards include the large, Eugster's Farm Market (608)873-3822 and Pleasants Springs Orchard which has changed ownership in the last two years. Pleasant Springs is the closest to Lake Kegonsa, located at County Highway N) 2722 Williams Drive, Phone: (724) 972-1729 for more information.
Lake Kegonsa State Park
One of only two state parks in Southern Wisconsin, Lake Kegonsa State park offers visitors a diversity of trail options from boardwalks, forests marsh and prairie. There is even an historic ruin on site. Camping options are available with basic amenitiies.
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