Long Lake in Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, is a 1,568-acre shallow lake located approximately three miles north of Willmar in the Hawk Creek Watershed. The lake offers diverse paddling opportunities with its expansive waters, numerous small islands, and wetland connections to other area lakes.

The lake features two primary public access points with concrete boat ramps: one on the northeast shore off County Road 27 and another on the south side near County Road 25. These well-maintained launches accommodate kayaks, canoes, and other watercraft.

The shoreline includes a mix of residential development, particularly along the southern portions near Robbins Island, and undeveloped stretches featuring hardwoods, grasslands, and wetlands.

Paddlers should be aware that Long Lake is relatively shallow, with an average depth of 9.5 feet and maximum depth of only 16 feet. The lake's 1.5-mile fetch and limited forested wind barriers mean prevailing northwest winds can create challenging conditions, particularly in the lake's vast open areas. A 47-acre island near the south end provides some protection and interesting exploration opportunities.

The lake connects to the Hawk Creek chain, with its primary inlet flowing from Ringo Lake through a wetland complex on the northeast edge. This connection offers extended paddling routes for those seeking longer adventures, though water levels in the connecting wetland can occasionally restrict passage.

Wildlife viewing opportunities include observation of the several bulrush islands, which support a large cormorant rookery. The diverse wetland and grassland habitat along the shoreline attracts various waterfowl and wading birds.

Water clarity averages around 1.9 meters during summer months, though algae blooms can reduce visibility during peak summer periods. The lake supports populations of largemouth bass, northern pike, sunfish, crappie, perch, and walleye, making it popular among anglers. Paddlers should note the presence of zebra mussels as an invasive species and take appropriate precautions to prevent spread.