Map 1: Rochert to Phelps Mill
The Otter Tail River begins at Elbow Lake in Becker County and encounters many lakes as it flows westward. This river segment starts out flowing south, but the second river segment flows north when it joins the Bois de Sioux River in Breckenridge.
The Otter Tail River is a peaceful, slow-moving river with few rapids, but it flows over and under dangerous obstacles. The river begins at Elbow Lake in Becker County and encounters many lakes as it flows westward. The Otter Tail River starts out flowing south, but then flows north when it joins the Bois de Sioux River in Breckenridge. While higher flow rates will have adventurous paddlers dodging rocks, low flow rates may require walking alongside your canoe or kayak. Check gauge levels before your trip.
Hazards include numerous dams, dangerous obstructions and culverts with fast-moving water and little or no headroom. Do not enter a culvert or go under a bridge unless you are aware of what you may encounter. Even experienced paddlers should get out and survey obstructions. Bridges and culverts may have projecting bolts or nails. Bridges may have dams under them. If in doubt, stop, get out and look! Paddling on the larger lakes during very windy conditions is not recommended.
Recommended day trip
Wannigan Road to Riverside Park
- Put-in location: Wannigan Road carry-in access, river mile 152.1
- Take-out location: Riverside Park carry-in access, river mile 144.5
- Length: 8.4 river miles
You'll find little development along this scenic, slow-flowing stretch of river. This trip is best with late spring water levels, unless you make an extra effort to stay in the flow of the main channel. The river averages 30 feet in width and is mostly waist deep with deeper holes. As you approach the take-out, be prepared for rock weirs and faster moving water. Also be alert for a low utility pipe just past the take-out.
Explore on shore
City and county parks
You'll find city and county owned parks along this section of the river, especially on the larger lakes. Many of these parks offer a place to launch, land or take a break during your paddle.
Local contacts
DNR northwest headquarters
2115 Birchmont Beach Road NE, Bemidji, MN 56601
218-308-2372
Nearest medical facility
Perham Health
1000 Coney Street W, Perham, MN 56573
218-347-1200
Paddling the Otter Tail River.
Paddlers - be sure to use your river map and know what lies ahead!
Map 2: Phelps Mill to Breckenridge
This segment of the Otter Tail River joins with the Red River of the North in Breckenridge, and together they form the Minnesota-North Dakota boundary.
The Otter Tail River is a peaceful, slow-moving river with few rapids, but it flows over and under dangerous obstacles. The river begins at Elbow Lake in Becker County and encounters many lakes as it flows westward. At Breckenridge, it joins with the Red River of the North and together they form the Minnesota-North Dakota boundary. The Otter Tail River starts out flowing south, but then flows north when it joins the Bois de Sioux River in Breckenridge. While higher flow rates will have adventurous paddlers dodging rocks, low flow rates may require walking alongside your canoe or kayak. Check gauge levels before your trip.
Hazards include numerous dams, dangerous obstructions and culverts with fast-moving water and little or no headroom. Do not enter a culvert or go under a bridge unless you are aware of what you may encounter. Even experienced paddlers should get out and survey obstructions. Bridges and culverts may have projecting bolts or nails. Bridges may have dams under them. If in doubt, stop, get out and look! Paddling on the larger lakes during very windy conditions is not recommended.
Recommended day trip
Phelps Mill Park to West Red River Lake
- Put-in location: Phelps Mill County Park carry-in access, river mile 85
- Take-out location: West Red River Lake trailer access, river mile 73.2
- Length: 11.8 river miles
At the put-in, portage across the park's lawn and launch west of the parking area. This gentle section of the river flows past forests and fields and through several lakes. Be sure you know which direction to go when entering each lake, as it may be difficult to see where the river outlet is. This full-day trip is not recommended on windy days.
Explore on shore
City, county and federal lands
The cities of Phelps, Fergus Falls and Breckenridge are dotted with small parks along the water. The river also passes the Orwell Lake Recreation Area, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Boat launches and other facilities can be found here. Nearby, you'll also find the State of Minnesota's Orwell Wildlife Management Area.
Local contacts
DNR northwest headquarters
2115 Birchmont Beach Road NE, Bemidji, MN 56601
218-308-2372
Nearest medical facilities
St. Francis Medical Center
2400 St. Francis Drive, Breckenridge, MN 56520
218-643-3000
Lake Region Healthcare
712 South Cascade Street, Fergus Falls, MN 56537
218-736-8000
Paddling and fishing along this river segment.
A wide section of the river, but hazards may be just around the bend.
