Find a public boat ramp by name, lake or county. 1,000 launches in 81 counties, with ramp type, fees, parking, trailer lanes and GPS directions.
Whether you are trailering a bass boat to a northern lake or carrying a kayak to a UP river, this directory lists 1,000 public access sites across 81 counties, built from Michigan DNR boating access data. Find a ramp by county or lake, then check its surface, fee, parking and trailer lanes before you go.
Most launches are linked to a lake page, so you can see what the DNR has stocked there too.
Launches differ in surface, water, cost and facilities. Counts below come from this directory, where each field is known. Select any type to see those launches.
Concrete or asphalt slopes. They handle most trailered boats in most conditions and are the usual choice for larger or deeper-draft boats. Many list several trailer lanes.
Check: lane count and parking size on busy days. 150Gravel rampsCompacted stone. Fine for most fishing boats and jon boats in dry conditions, but traction changes with rain and with water level. The most common surface in this directory.
Check: recent rain, and whether the ramp reaches the water at current levels. 2Dirt or natural rampsUnimproved slopes, mostly at remote sites. Best for light trailers and small boats. Soft ground can trap a heavy rig.
Check: ground firmness before backing a trailer down. 74Carry-in onlyNo built ramp. Kayaks, canoes and car-top boats are carried to the water.
Check: the distance from parking to the water.Michigan's many inland lakes. Launches are usually on a quiet shoreline, from DNR access sites to township and county parks.
197Rivers and streamsAccess sites at bridges, dams and campgrounds. Current and water level matter more here, and many sites suit smaller boats, canoes and kayaks.
79Great LakesHarbors and river mouths with access to the Great Lakes. Weather and waves can change quickly, so check the marine forecast.
The data lists no launch fee. Fees can change, so check posted signs.
835Fee listedA fee applies, often a day-use or launch fee at state park, state forest campground and some local sites. The amount is shown on a launch page when the data lists it.
The data does not say whether a fee applies. Check on site.
Use these to match a launch to your boat and your day.
More lanes mean more boats can launch and load at once. 63 launches list 4 or more lanes. 669 list a single lane.
9750 or more parking spacesLarger lots handle busy weekends better. Sort any search by most parking to see the biggest sites first.
714RestroomsVault toilets and flush restrooms both count here.
612Boating pier or dockA dock beside the ramp makes loading and tying up easier.
39Fishing pierA pier you can fish from without a boat.
34Fish cleaning stationA place to clean your catch before you head home.
596Accessible featuresAccessible parking, restrooms or piers are listed.
497Open at all timesThe data lists no closing time, which suits early starts and late returns. Confirm on site.
A boat launch, also called a boat ramp or boating access site, is a paved, gravel or natural slope that lets you put a trailered or carry-in boat into the water. This directory lists 1,000 public boating access sites across Michigan, built from Michigan DNR boating access data. Details can change, so confirm on site. Spot a mistake? Tell us.