Kayak and canoe launches on Lake Michigan, Michigan

33 launch sites on Lake Michigan from Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. 1 are listed as hand, car-top or paddlecraft launches. 28 are trailer ramps.

Fees: 0 list no fee, 26 list a fee, 7 not verified. Each listing names its source; check it before you go.

Sort these launches by distance from you

Launch sites A to Z

• Aronson Island · Boating access site
  Fee not verified, check with the site owner View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Access details not published; check before you go.
• Bowers Harbor · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Listed as having accessible features by the managing agency. Call ahead to confirm what is accessible (parking, path, dock or launch). (National Park Service)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Clinch Memorial · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Launch surface

  Natural (dirt, sand or mud)

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Natural bank (dirt, sand or mud): wear sandals or water shoes with grippy soles that stay on in mud. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Listed as having accessible features by the managing agency. Call ahead to confirm what is accessible (parking, path, dock or launch). (National Park Service)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Cross Village · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Fee not verified, check with the site owner View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Access details not published; check before you go.
• East Arm · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Listed as having accessible features by the managing agency. Call ahead to confirm what is accessible (parking, path, dock or launch). (National Park Service)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Elk Rapids · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Fee not verified, check with the site owner View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Listed as having accessible features by the managing agency. Call ahead to confirm what is accessible (parking, path, dock or launch). (National Park Service)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Elmwood Township Marina · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Listed as having accessible features by the managing agency. Call ahead to confirm what is accessible (parking, path, dock or launch). (National Park Service)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Farmers Dock · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Listed as having accessible features by the managing agency. Call ahead to confirm what is accessible (parking, path, dock or launch). (National Park Service)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Fayette Historic State Park · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Listed as having accessible features by the managing agency. Call ahead to confirm what is accessible (parking, path, dock or launch). (National Park Service)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Ford River Mouth · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Listed as having accessible features by the managing agency. Call ahead to confirm what is accessible (parking, path, dock or launch). (National Park Service)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Garden Bay · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Listed as having accessible features by the managing agency. Call ahead to confirm what is accessible (parking, path, dock or launch). (National Park Service)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Gladstone Marina · Boating access site
  Fee not verified, check with the site owner View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Access details not published; check before you go.
• Josephine D. Ford Park · Boat ramp (trailer) + hand launch
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Not listed

  Carry from nearest mapped parking

  about 48 m (160 ft), straight line

  Elevation change, parking to launch point

  -3 ft (about 2% average grade)

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Not listed as accessible by the managing agency. If you need an accessible launch, contact them before you go. (American Canoe Association)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Carry distance: nearest parking mapped in OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL); elevations: USGS 3DEP. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Kipling · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Listed as having accessible features by the managing agency. Call ahead to confirm what is accessible (parking, path, dock or launch). (National Park Service)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Leland Township Marina · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Listed as having accessible features by the managing agency. Call ahead to confirm what is accessible (parking, path, dock or launch). (National Park Service)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Loomis Street · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Not listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Not listed as accessible by the managing agency. If you need an accessible launch, contact them before you go. (American Canoe Association)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Menominee Municipal · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Not listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Not listed as accessible by the managing agency. If you need an accessible launch, contact them before you go. (American Canoe Association)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Nahma · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Listed as having accessible features by the managing agency. Call ahead to confirm what is accessible (parking, path, dock or launch). (National Park Service)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Naubinway Marina · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Not listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Not listed as accessible by the managing agency. If you need an accessible launch, contact them before you go. (American Canoe Association)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Nine Mile Point · Boating access site
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Launch surface

  Natural (dirt, sand or mud)

  Accessible features

  Not listed

  • Natural bank (dirt, sand or mud): wear sandals or water shoes with grippy soles that stay on in mud. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Not listed as accessible by the managing agency. If you need an accessible launch, contact them before you go. (American Canoe Association)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• North Shore · Boating access site
  Fee not verified, check with the site owner View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Access details not published; check before you go.
• Northport G. Marsten Dame Marina · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Not listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Not listed as accessible by the managing agency. If you need an accessible launch, contact them before you go. (American Canoe Association)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Petoskey Municipal · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Not listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Not listed as accessible by the managing agency. If you need an accessible launch, contact them before you go. (American Canoe Association)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Portage Bay State Forest Campground · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Accessible features

  Not listed

  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Not listed as accessible by the managing agency. If you need an accessible launch, contact them before you go. (American Canoe Association)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Portage Marsh · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Fee not verified, check with the site owner View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Accessible features

  Not listed

  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Not listed as accessible by the managing agency. If you need an accessible launch, contact them before you go. (American Canoe Association)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Railroad Dock · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Fee not verified, check with the site owner View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Not listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Not listed as accessible by the managing agency. If you need an accessible launch, contact them before you go. (American Canoe Association)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Rapid River Mouth · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Launch surface

  Natural (dirt, sand or mud)

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Natural bank (dirt, sand or mud): wear sandals or water shoes with grippy soles that stay on in mud. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Listed as having accessible features by the managing agency. Call ahead to confirm what is accessible (parking, path, dock or launch). (National Park Service)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Sayler Park · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Listed as having accessible features by the managing agency. Call ahead to confirm what is accessible (parking, path, dock or launch). (National Park Service)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Seul Choix Pointe · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Listed as having accessible features by the managing agency. Call ahead to confirm what is accessible (parking, path, dock or launch). (National Park Service)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Stoney Point · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Not listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Not listed as accessible by the managing agency. If you need an accessible launch, contact them before you go. (American Canoe Association)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Thompson Creek · Boating access site
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Launch surface

  Natural (dirt, sand or mud)

  Accessible features

  Not listed

  • Natural bank (dirt, sand or mud): wear sandals or water shoes with grippy soles that stay on in mud. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Not listed as accessible by the managing agency. If you need an accessible launch, contact them before you go. (American Canoe Association)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• West Arm · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Dock or boarding float

  Yes

  Accessible features

  Listed

  • Dock launch: set the boat parallel to the dock, paddle within reach, sit on the dock and lower yourself into the seat, keeping your weight centered. (REI Expert Advice)
  • Shared trailer ramp: get your boat and gear ready off to the side, then launch promptly so trailered boats can use the ramp. (American Canoe Association)
  • Listed as having accessible features by the managing agency. Call ahead to confirm what is accessible (parking, path, dock or launch). (National Park Service)

  Official fields: Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites. Check current conditions; water levels change the walk to the water.

• Wilderness State Park · Boat ramp (trailer)
  Entry: Michigan Recreation Passport required (Michigan DNR Boating Access Sites, checked 2026-10-26) View in Google Earth (opens in a new tab) Directions (opens in a new tab)
  Getting to the water

  Access details not published; check before you go.

Michigan paddling rules
Registration, permits, life jackets and AIS stickers

Other Michigan waters with 5+ launches

Lake Huron (33) · Grand River (30) · Long Lake (26) · Manistee River (23) · Round Lake (16) · Bass Lake (14) · Lake Superior (13) · Portage Lake (13) · Crooked Lake (12) · Au Sable River (12) · Muskegon River (12) · Clear Lake (11) · All Michigan launches

Data shown as published by the agency or mapped source; launch details and fees change, so check the official source before you go.