Contrasting many of our region's lakes (dammed rivers or marshes), Lake Ripley is a natural, glacial kettle lake formed more than 12,000 years ago. The DNR has designated the lake as a "Priority Lake" meaning it is considered an outstanding natural resource and needing protection and long term management. Lake Ripley's fragile aquatic ecosystem is being taxed by the ever growing presence of invasive species such as the water hyacinth, water foil and more. Melinda Myers, noted gardener, expert guest on WPR, and writer speaks to the dire need for action in her article "Working Together to Manage Invasive Plants in Wisconsin." Myers' piece has been posted here with permission from the Lake Ripley Management District (LRMD.)

The health of any lake's ecosystem requires local governmental bodies like (LRMD) and the actions of passionate volunteers. In 1997, the Lake District through available DNR funds and organizations such as the Cambridge Foundation and Ducks Unlimited among others purchased 100 acres of adjacent farm land. The purchase allowed volunteers and DNR to protect the Lake Ripley watershed and restore portions of precious wetlands lost to agriculture.  Today, these restoration efforts have created healthy habitats for native frogs,  sandhill cranes, blue herons, turtles, sandhill cranes, wood ducks and "other wildlife. In addition, upland portions of the property were returned to a native tall-grass prairie," according to LRMD.

A famous destination for vacationers in the late 19th and mid-20th century, Lake Ripley's shores were once lined with a magnificent array of resorts. Visit our STAY section and learn more about the 16 Lake Ripley's resorts and Lake Ripley Lodge that continues the tradition today. You can even stay overnight or weekend at the lodge and re-live the lake's glorious past.

Head east out of downtown Cambridge on Park Road. Visitors to Lake Ripley have access to the lake from public boat landings, a public beach, tennis courts, concessions and a playground As of 2021. Lake Ripley Park is an 18 acre park situated on the western shore of the lake. The park has been funded and maintained by the Cambridge Foundation since 1946.

LAKE CONDITIONS:

The DNR reports that the lake's water is moderately clear. The health of the lake is critical as it discharges into Koshkonong Creek which eventually connects to the Rock River. The Rock River which runs from Wisconsin across the border into Illinois eventually empties into the Mississippi River.

The Wisconsin DNR has catch and release fishing on Lake Ripley 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.

Working Together

to Manage Invasive Plants in Wisconsin

by Melinda Myers

special thanks to Lake Ripley

Management District

Spring is a favorite time in the garden. Everyday something new sprouts through the ground, blooms appear, and leaves begin filling empty branches. As you enjoy spring and summer unfolding, keep a lookout for unwelcome plants in gardens, waterways, and natural areas. READ MORE

Ice Fishing Tips

Hits good to more average in late January to early February, weather dependent. Expect Panfish  or catching bigger size fish like bluegill, perch, pike, walleye, and occasional largemouth bass. The best places to access Lake Ripley include Boy scout Camp Launch, Lake Ripley Marina. Many anglers find success with wax worms and lighter red spikes (maggots.)

Dip For Dozer, Enjoy A Polar Plunge At Ripley Park

Join dozens of Dippers as they jump into Lake Ripley to raise funds for the Dozer 52 Football Scholarship. Events on the ice at Lake Ripley Park include turkey bowling, Dipper costume contest, kid's activities, hot food by Cambridge Farm to School and raffles! The event takes place Feb 10, 2024 at Ripley Park

Beach Yoga At Ripley Park

Enjoy a one hour session of yoga on the beach at Ripley Park

Thursday, August 24, 8:00 - 9:00 am, just $10 for a drop in session and sun salutations. Ripley Park is located at N4310 Park Road outside of Cambridge.

The Lake Ripley Ride

Not technically on Lake Ripley, the Ride is about families biking across the lovely Cambridge area countryside for a good cause, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF.) Registered participants can choose from 18, 40, or 62 mile courses. Biking routes will take bikers through surrounding towns like Cambridge, Rockdale, Deerfield, and Lake Mills. Registration includes a shirt, map/cue sheet, scenic rest stops, sag wagon, a sandy swimming beach, and after ride festivities featuring live music, refreshments, and dinner provided by the Cambridge Lions Club.  Lake Ripley Ride starts from Ripley Park, Saturday, July 29, 2023. For more information visit Cambridge Community Activities Program online.

The Lake Ripley Fisheree

Always a good time for area ice fishing enthusiasts The Cambridge Area Lions Club is returning its' Fisheree to frozen expanse of Lake Ripley Friday (Feb. 4) and Saturday (Feb. 5.) Anglers will compete in the two for cash prizes, including a cash raffle. T.o register please stop by J&T Bait Shanty II The Lake Ripley Fisheree takes place Friday at 4:30PM through Saturday at 4PM with prizes and the drawing following at 4:30. For More information please email cambridgelions@yahoo.com.