Wagon Wheel Boat Launch

There's no actual ramp here — zero lanes, no trailer parking. You're sliding a canoe, kayak, or small fishing boat off the bank into the Baldwin/Pere Marquette. Great for paddle craft, but don't show up expecting to back a trailer down.

Parking is separated from the campsites and the river access, so bring a wagon or pack light. If you're just doing a day launch for paddling, the day-use area works fine, but on weekends the lot gets messy with campers taking spots they shouldn't. There's a $5 parking fee — have cash or register online ahead of time.

This is mostly used as a put-in or takeout for canoe, kayak, and tube floats on the Pere Marquette. The river here is crystal clear and fast-moving, so getting on the water is quick and easy. Salmon anglers also wade in from multiple access points along the bank, especially in October.

Spring and early summer, the mosquitoes and ticks here are relentless — this is deep Manistee National Forest and the river keeps everything damp. DEET is non-negotiable from May through July. By fall it's much more pleasant.

The access road was repaved, so getting in is easy now — no more dodging ruts. Signage is straightforward once you're off M-37. It's a nice secluded feel without actually being hard to reach.