Sunset
Lake is a 61.2 acre, hard water
seepage lake located in the Town of New Hope, five miles northeast of Nelsonville. With a maximum depth of 55 feet, it
is one of the deepest lakes in the County. The estimated retention time is 20.8 years. The near-shore littoral areas of the lake have large stretches of
sand and gravel. Smaller stretches of rubble and silt are also present. The lake is a well-known recreation spot and the shoreline has been developed
over the years. A
County park is present on the east side with picnic tables, grills, toilets, a beach, playground, and boat ramp as part of the facilities.
A large parking area is also present. The Central Wisconsin Environmental Station, a camp run by the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, occupies much of
the southeast side of the lake. Residences occupy the remainder of the shoreline. Many of these are well hidden from view and do not detract from the
aesthetic value of the lake. The majority of the shoreline is still forested with steep slopes lining the lake. This lake has seen some intense fishery
management in the past, including chemical treatments to remove the entire fish population in order to restock “more desirable” species. Currently, largemouth
bass, panfish, and trout are present. Sunset Lake serves as an excellent feeding and loafing area for waterfowl, particularly diver ducks during migration.
See a survey about the future of Sunset Lake
Read agendas and minutes from Sunset Lake planning meetings
Contact the staff working on the Sunset Lake plan
See a map of the Sunset Lake watershed
Read reports about Sunset Lake
Learn more about lakes