Randy Hermanson
Visitor
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Lake Geneva - 2006/09/22 14:42
I go to Lake Geneva to safely practice sea kayaking. I have been going there to pracitce for the big lakes and to get out on a week night when I can't go very far. It is only a 20 mile drive from Woodstock for me. It may be a longer drive for those living in the Rockford area but the rewards may be just what you need. I have a Wisconsin State Parks (seasonal) sticker and park at Bigfoot Beach State Park. The only other solutions is pay $7.50 at the other public launches or feed the meeters in downtown Lake Geneva which may be stopped if too many do it. The pass is well worth the investment if I plan on being in Wisconsin a lot.
The hard part is the launch, I have to carry my Perception Carolina from the parking lot to the beach, a good warm up when launching but a chore after landing. Sometimes, I have been allowed to park alongside Rt 120 along the shore but the authorities frown on that now. It is a hazardous place to load if you are not careful of the traffic. They do have a drop off place for picnics but that still is a long carry for a touring kayak. The biggest drawback to this place is crossing the highway while carrying the kayak. It is best for somebody to watch for traffic while you cross and best for this proceedure to be done by responsible adults. Children, do this with your parents. Be sure to stay away from the marked beach area.
On some days the lake is as smooth as glass. On a windy day it can get choppy out there, though not nearly as choppy as the Great Lakes. The water is refreshingly cool to me and the spring fed lake is very clear for as much as it is used by boat traffic. I have heard many complain it is too cold even near the beach, on a hot day. This is a matter of personal preference to me. I have been out there in either swimwear or in a full wetsuit.
Most of the time I just play around near Big Foot Beach but I have paddled across the lake which I have determined to be seven miles one way. I have thought of paddling to a restaurant in Fontana then paddle back to Big Foot. I still haven't tried eating there yet. The restaurant isn't too expensive but it is if you are on a McDonalds budget. Another nice part of Big Foot Beach is the picnic area and a campgrounds if you don't need a remote camping area, like me. Apres paddle could be finished off with a dip on the beach and a nice picnic. Perhaps, the non kayaker in your family could have dinner ready when you return. If you are lucky they may cook up some fresh catch.
On week days this crossing isn't bad. On wekends the power boaters rule. I have no desire to be in the picnic area on weekends either, the park is packed and noisy, batlte of the boom box. I have known this place since I was a kid, when my family used to go there swimming and picnicing. I must have been around four when I experienced a day of swimming (wading), sand castles; savoring hotdogs, hamburgers, ceamette salad and watermelon. I think I have eaten my brthday cake there a few times.
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