Experience the Dane County Tenney Lock and Spillway – one of three boat locks located on the Yahara River. The Tenney Lock is the largest lock and is located on Lake Mendota within the City of Madison. The lock is operated by a Parks Lock Attendant during specific park hours (see schedule below) and requires a permit for use.
If you need access through the Lock during off-hours, please contact Dane County Parks (Monday - Friday) at least 48 hours in advance. There will be a $50 minimum charge. Total charge will be determined by service requested.
Parks Office: (608) 224-3730
Tenney Lock: (608) 221-7202
Purchase a Tenney Lock Permit Lock Schedule More Info Lake Access & Boating
You cannot go through Tenney Lock or any of the county locks with a raised mast. Water levels determine the clearance height for a boat to move through the Lock. Generally, in normal water conditions 6 feet is the maximum height. During times of high water conditions, the maximum height will be less. Height is also an issue on the Yahara River (canal) moving between Mendota and Monona. At least one bridge through this stretch has a maximum height of 6 feet. See Tenney Lock Fact Sheet (PDF) for additional information.