A curated collection of the best tools, maps, communities, and websites for paddlers, hikers, campers, and anyone who loves the outdoors.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Below is a hand-picked list of resources I personally use or recommend. These sites offer valuable information for planning trips, checking conditions, discovering new gear, or connecting with the outdoor community.
🚣♂️ Paddling Communities & Trip Planning
Mad City Paddlers
https://www.madcitypaddlers.org
A community-driven paddling club offering group trips, safety training, events, and educational sessions for every skill level. One of the best ways to explore new waterways and meet fellow paddlers in Wisconsin.
MilesPaddled
One of the best Wisconsin paddling resources online. Features detailed river guides, maps, hazards, put-in/take-out info, and honest “what to expect” trip journals.
Paddling.com
A massive database of paddling routes, launch points, gear reviews, techniques, and community forums—a must-bookmark for anyone who kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards.
Paddle-It (Wisconsin Water Trails)
A Wisconsin-focused organization dedicated to safe paddling, water trail development, and education. Great for discovering new river routes and learning about stewardship.
Vector Force – Wisconsin Paddle Trail Maps
https://www.vector-force.com/wisconsin-paddle-trail-maps
A curated set of Wisconsin paddle route maps showing distances, hazards, access points, and recommended routes—perfect for planning new adventures.
🗺️ Maps, Conditions & Safety Tools
USGS Water Data for Wisconsin
https://dashboard.waterdata.usgs.gov/app/nwd/en/?aoi=state-wi
Real-time streamflow, water height, temperature, and discharge data. Essential for evaluating whether rivers are safe and runnable before paddling.
🏞️ Outdoor Events & Brands
Canoecopia – Rutabaga Paddlesports
https://www.rutabaga.com/canoecopia/page.asp?pgid=1001&r=1
The world’s largest paddle sports expo with seminars, demos, gear showcases, and expert speakers. A fantastic annual event for paddlers of all levels.
Vector Force Gear
High-performance ultralight outdoor equipment built for rugged field use. Strong engineering, minimalist design, and incredibly durable tools for serious adventurers.
🌳 Wisconsin State Parks, Camping & Land Management
Wisconsin DNR
Your gateway to Wisconsin’s natural resources: regulations, licenses, park info, maps, trails, safety guidance, boat landings, and conservation updates.
Wisconsin State Park Reservations – GoingToCamp
https://wisconsin.goingtocamp.com
The official reservation platform for Wisconsin State Parks. View site photos, check availability, and book tent, RV, and backpacking sites quickly and easily.
Ice Age Trail Alliance – Corporate Friends
A directory of outdoor-focused companies that support the Ice Age Trail. Great for discovering reputable brands dedicated to stewardship and trail advocacy.
🌄 Why This Resource Page Exists
Every adventure starts with good information.
These links represent communities, tools, and organizations that help paddlers, hikers, and campers explore safely and confidently. Whether you’re planning a multi-day kayak trip, scouting new trails, or prepping for backcountry camping, you’ll find something valuable here.