Lake

Dodge #4 State Park

Plan your swim

Reviews

5.0

(1 review)

This is my go-to local wild swimming spot. It has a long marked off area, which makes it ideal for distance swims. The end is a dog-friendly beach (leashes required), which is to say it’s more secluded if you only care to do a shorter portion. There is a pier halfway along the beach, so be cautious. The lake is highly trafficked by motor vehicles, so stay within the designated area.

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About

500m of marked buoys, with a pier halfway through. Depth varies, roughly 6 feet. Water is fairly clear and can see bottom clearly at times. Jet skis can get a bit close to the buoys, so make sure to swim within the boundary.

Location

Nearby swim spots

Getting there

Parking at Dodge #4 State Park. State parks cost $20 for a season pass.

Accessibility

Fairly accessible up to beach but no pathway to water other than sand.

What swimmers say

Facilities

Nearby parking

Activities

Swimming

Landscape

Has a beach Easy to walk to

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Frequently asked questions

Is this lake safe for swimming?

Check the Conditions tab for surface state and wind conditions. Review the Quality tab if this is a designated bathing water. Always read recent community reports for local advice.

How cold is the water?

Check the Temperature tab for the current estimate and 7-day trend. Lakes hold heat longer than rivers but can develop a thermocline. The water below the surface can be dramatically colder.

What should I bring?

A tow float for visibility (especially important where boats operate), warm layers for after, and consider a wetsuit in colder months. Check for designated swimming areas.

What should I know before swimming here?

Cold water shock is real. Enter slowly and control your breathing. Lake water can be much colder below the surface (thermocline). Stay close to shore until you know the conditions. Watch for boat traffic and stay visible with a tow float. Check for blue-green algae warnings before swimming. Conditions change fast. Always check the latest data, read recent community reports, and swim within your ability.