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.
RampUnimproved, 1 lane
Trailer Parking2 spots · gravel
Vehicle-Only2 spots
FeeMI Recreation Passport (annual, on vehicle registration)
HoursOpen at all times
Not Available Fish cleaning · Fishing pier · Restrooms · Pier
Scout's Notes
Ramp Quirks & Etiquette
Tiny & Remote
This is a very small, quiet lake tucked inside Pinckney State Recreation Area. With just one lane and two trailer spots, it's really only suited for canoes, kayaks, or small car-toppers. Don't show up with a 20-foot bass boat expecting a smooth launch.
Trailhead Congestion
The area around Gosling Lake is popular with hikers doing the 6+ mile loop trail. On fall weekends especially, the limited parking can get grabbed by trail users before you even arrive. Get there early if you want one of those two spots.
Carry-In Mentality
Think of this more as a carry-in launch than a true boat ramp. The access is basic and the lake itself is small enough that a kayak or canoe is the ideal way to enjoy it. If you want a proper ramp in Livingston County, head to one of the bigger lakes nearby.
Rec Area Pass Required
You'll need a valid Recreation Passport since it's administered by Pinckney State Rec Area. Easy to forget when you're just popping in for a paddle, but they do check — especially on summer weekends when rangers are making rounds.
Sources: DNR GIS data, Google Reviews, Google Street View
About This Lake
Gosling Lake →