Aune-Osborn Park

There's no formal boat ramp here — no lanes, no trailer parking. The adjacent marina area can work for dropping in a small boat or kayak, but if you're trailering anything of size, head to the proper launch nearby. This is a campground first and foremost.

The St. Marys River shipping channel runs right along the bank here, and the big lakers pass shockingly close as they slow down for the Soo Locks. Amazing to watch, but if you're putting a small boat in the water, you need to respect the wakes and give those freighters a wide berth. They don't stop for you.

This place fills up well in advance during summer — the combination of cheap rates, waterfront sites, and freighter views makes it a hot ticket. If you're planning to camp and launch from here, reserve as early as possible. Walk-up availability is rare from June through August.

Freighters signal each other when passing, and it happens around the clock. Between the horn blasts and road noise from the adjacent street, light sleepers won't get much rest. By about 3 AM things usually quiet down, but don't count on sleeping in.

If you're paddling, this is a solid put-in spot. The bank is accessible, the water is deep enough right off shore thanks to the shipping channel, and you're within easy paddling distance of the locks area. Just stay aware of freighter traffic — those ships throw serious wake and the current in the river is no joke.