Devil's River Boat Launch

Sediment builds up at the base of the ramp, so expect it to get shallow fast, especially later in summer. If you're running a deeper-draft boat, you might scrape. Early season after spring levels is your best window before it silts in.

There's a popular sandbar out on the lake where people set up lawn chairs right in the water. On summer weekends it turns into a party — pontoons and tubes everywhere. If you're fishing, mornings or weekdays are the move.

The lot has 12 trailer spots, which holds up fine most of the time, but there's a nasty pothole in the lot that'll jar you good if you're not watching. After Labor Day the place empties out and you'll practically have it to yourself.

This is a Hoeft State Park site, so you'll need a Michigan Recreation Passport on summer weekends. Enforcement is hit or miss — sometimes there's someone checking, sometimes not — but don't risk the ticket.

There's a portable toilet near the launch and it is consistently disgusting, especially mid-summer. Plan accordingly before you make the drive out. Not the kind of place where you want to count on facilities.