Indian River is a key link in Michigan's famous Inland Waterway, connecting Burt Lake to the west and Mullett Lake to the east. The Little Sturgeon River also joins here at the boat launch. The full Inland Waterway system runs from Crooked Lake through Burt Lake, Mullett Lake, and the Cheboygan River to Lake Huron — roughly 38 miles of interconnected navigable water.
Where is the Indian River boat launch?
Is there a fee to launch at Indian River?
How much parking is at the Indian River boat launch?
What lakes can you reach from the Indian River launch?
Can you kayak or canoe the Indian River?
What fish are in the Indian River area?
Is the water shallow at the Indian River launch?
Are there campgrounds near Indian River?
Are there beaches near Indian River?
Indian River is a small waterway in Cheboygan County that connects Burt Lake and Mullett Lake — two of the largest lakes in Michigan's Inland Waterway chain. The river and its surrounding waters sit in the heart of the village of Indian River, a crossroads town on I-75 between Gaylord and Mackinaw City. The single launch here is a dual-ramp site on the Little Sturgeon River at its junction with the Indian River, with parking for 26 trailer rigs plus overflow. It's a $6/day launch fee, and reviewers note they do ticket — so pay up front.
This launch is really a gateway to the broader Inland Waterway system. From here you can access Burt Lake to the west and Mullett Lake to the east, both of which hold walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, perch, and panfish. The water is shallow right off the ramp, so power-load carefully. Kayakers use the launch too, and the Indian River itself is a popular paddling route — not a lazy float, but manageable current with some maneuvering around woody debris. Nearby camping options are solid, with Burt Lake State Park and several private campgrounds within a short drive.