Explore Jefferson County by Water

With the Rock River flowing throughout Jefferson County, following the waterways is one of the most fun ways to get around the area! Many of our quaint and historic downtowns are situated on or near the Rock River. Drop in your kayak, canoe, or paddle board at one of the kayak drop spots scattered around the county and pick your destination or just wander on your own.

Don’t have your own kayak? Rent one from one of the new Surf Shack LLC locations.

There are locations at these parks:

• Whitewater Lake Beach
• Sandy Beach (Lake Mills)
• Rock River Landing Park (Jefferson)
• Cappie’s Landing (Watertown)
• Wayside Park (Ixonia)

While you’re out, consider taking a break ashore at one of these favorite destinations:

Goat Island (Jefferson)

At the intersection of the Rock and Crawfish Rivers just below the dam, find Goat Island! This island is the summer home to a herd of goats. Since 2017, the Friends of Goat Island have placed 3-5 goats on the island from June through September to eradicate the invasive plant species. The goats love when visitors stop by Goat Island for company, photos, or to feed them from the available vending machine. You can stop by the island at any point while the goats are there, but if you really want the full goat experience, join us for Goat Fest on August 5^th!

Island Bar and Grill (Fort Atkinson)

Island Bar & Grill is a waterfront bar and restaurant just outside of Fort Atkinson which overlooks Lake Koshkonong and is also reachable by the Rock River! They offer a full menu, outdoor tiki bar, outdoor stage with live music every weekend and piers for docking boats. Pull your kayak up to shore or float around while listening to great music and enjoying the unique atmosphere.

Ripley Park (Cambridge)

Lake Ripley and Lake Ripley Park on the far West side of Cambridge – a beautifully groomed and maintained 500-ft. beach. (photo by Chad Holpfer)

This beautiful park has something for everyone! Pack a picnic and stop at this park to enjoy a day at the beach. Ripley Park is home to two tennis courts, a basketball court, a children’s play structure, 9-hole disc golf course, volleyball courts, and much more.

Sandy Beach (Lake Mills)

While spending the day on Rock Lake, a stop at Sandy Beach is a must. Build a sandcastle, take a dip in the lake, or get your tan ready to go for summer!

Riverside Park (Watertown)

Not only a great location to stop for a picnic along the Rock River, Riverside Park is also the home to Watertown’s Riverfest. Riverfest is a free 4-day music festival. This year, they are hosting their 36th Annual Event! Mark your calendar for August 10-13. You do not want to miss this!