Dutchman's Bay Boat Launch

There's a sharp turn on the approach road that makes backing in longer boats (22'+) a real adventure. If you've got a big walkaround or pontoon, take it slow and plan your angle early — it's tight enough that you'll need a spotter.

Your GPS will try to send you down Nagashi Road. Don't take it. Stay on Dutchman Bay Road and follow it all the way to the end. Learned that one the hard way — Nagashi dead-ends and you'll be doing a three-point turn with a trailer in somebody's driveway.

Two lanes and 35 trailer spots is plenty for this side of Lake Charlevoix. Even on peak summer Saturdays, I've almost never waited more than a few minutes. It's way less hectic than the Ferry Avenue launch in town.

Young State Park manages this site but the restroom maintenance is inconsistent at best. Mid-summer they can get pretty grim between cleanings. Plan accordingly or make a pit stop before you arrive.

For my money, this is the best launch on Lake Charlevoix. You're right in the protected waters of the south arm, so you're not fighting big rollers just getting out of the launch area. Clean ramp, easy in and out, and quick access to both arms of the lake plus the main basin.