Chain O’Lakes State Park – FREE state-owned boat ramps with access to Nippersink Lake
Oak Point – Public launch facilities available
Southeast portion launch sites – Several launch locations available on southeast portion of the lake
El Puerto Mexican Restaurant – Boat and waverunner parking available for dining customers
Marinas:
Jet Fun – Located on Nippersink Lake, offers boat and waverunner rentals
El Puerto Mexican Restaurant – Features both outdoor and indoor seating with boat and waverunner parking
Multiple marina services available due to central location for pier and lift removal/installation
Access Points:
Equipment Rentals:
Lake Details
Historical Information
Formation: One of three natural water bodies in the Chain, formed by Wisconsin glacier melting thousands of years ago
“The Cut” History: Historic hand-dug channel created by Dunnill family and Converse Marble between Pistakee and Nippersink Lakes, causing strong current and fresher water along east shore
Railroad History: Railroad crossed the Chain at narrowest point between Pistakee and Nippersink Lakes (current Route 12 location). Station built at “Nippersink Point” became center of Fox Lake community in 1901
Early Settlement: Dunnill family and Converse Marble were among first European settlers near the border between Pistakee and Nippersink Lakes
Native American Heritage: Originally inhabited by Miami, Mascouten, and Potawatomi tribes
Notable Features & Landmarks
“Point Comfort” Peninsula – Distinctive landmass pointing north that creates barrier between Nippersink and Fox Lakes. Offers condo living opportunities for Chain O’Lakes access
“Beer Can Bridge” (Route 12 Bridges) – Two bridges spanning the lake – state highway and parallel train trestle. Historic swivel turret bridge (now frozen) with “high side” and “low side” openings
“The Cut” – Historic hand-dug channel connecting to Pistakee Lake, now deep and wide, heavily traveled
Chain O’Lakes State Park Border – State park directly borders Nippersink Lake along with Grass Lake and Lake Marie
Central Hub Location – Strategic location connecting Fox, Grass, and Pistakee Lakes
Lake Front Park – Public beach area off Nippersink Blvd
El Puerto Mexican Restaurant – Major waterfront dining destination with boat access
