Craft & Seasonality
✗
Motorboat ✓
Kayak / Canoe ✗
Jet Ski / PWC ✗
Large 22ft+ ✗
Winter Access Site Details
Conditions change rapidly due to water levels, prop wash, and weather. Always visually inspect before backing down.
RampCarry-in only, 0 lanes
Trailer Parking0 spots · gravel
Vehicle-Only3 spots
FeeNo fee
HoursOpen at all times
RestroomsPortable toilet (1)
Not Available Fish cleaning · Fishing pier · Pier
Scout's Notes
Ramp Quirks & Etiquette
Misleading Name
Despite what the DNR listing says, this launch actually sits on a small lake — not the main Manistee River channel. Don't show up expecting river access or you'll be confused.
No Trailer Spots Listed
The DNR says zero trailer parking, but they've added a dedicated truck-and-trailer lot in recent years. You'll find room most days, though it's a smaller lot so a busy Saturday in July could get tight.
Small Boat Friendly
The ramp is surprisingly well-built for such a little spot — solid surface, easy grade. Perfect for small pontoons, Jon boats, and kayaks. Don't bring anything too big; this is a small lake and the launch matches.
Winter Hotspot
This place comes alive for ice fishing season. The lake is small enough that you can walk out from shore easily, and the access road stays passable through winter. One of the better ice setups in Kalkaska County.
July Boat Traffic
Mid-summer weekends get surprisingly crowded for such a small lake. The fishing drops off noticeably when pontoons and rec boats stack up. Hit it early morning or come during the week if you're after anything with fins.
Sources: DNR GIS data, Google Reviews
About This Lake
Manistee River →