Craft & Seasonality
✓
Motorboat ✓
Kayak / Canoe ✓
Jet Ski / PWC ✗
Large Boat ✗
Winter Access Site Details
Conditions change rapidly due to water levels, prop wash, and weather. Always visually inspect before backing down.
RampUnimproved, 1 lane
Dock1 boating pier
Trailer Parking5 spots · gravel
FeeMI Recreation Passport (annual, on vehicle registration)
Hours4 AM – 11 PM
RestroomsVault toilet (1)
PierYes
AccessibilityAccessible restroom
Not Available Fish cleaning · Fishing pier
Scout's Notes
Ramp Quirks & Etiquette
Five Spots, Move Quick
Only five trailer spots and one lane, so on a Saturday morning in summer you might pull in to find zero room. Get there before 8 AM or plan for a weekday trip. There's no real overflow area — you're basically stuck idling on the road if it's full.
Peaceful Small Lake
Nottawa is a quiet gem — no parade of jet skis and wake boats chewing up the water. Perfect for pontoons, jon boats, and kayaks. If you're tired of getting swamped on bigger Calhoun County lakes, this is where you go.
Mosquitoes Are Brutal
From late May through September, the mosquitoes at the launch area are relentless. Spray down before you even open the truck door, especially in the evening. The tree cover around the ramp keeps things shady but also keeps the bugs thick.
Restroom Is Hit Or Miss
There's a restroom on-site but don't count on it being stocked or clean. It gets neglected between maintenance visits. Plan accordingly, especially if you're bringing the family out for a full day.
Sources: DNR GIS data, Google Reviews, Google Street View
About This Lake
Nottawa Lake →