Stoney Point Boat Launch

Only 5 trailer spots here, so on any decent summer weekend you're in trouble if you roll in after 8 AM. There's no real overflow area — once those spots are taken, you're out of luck or getting creative on the shoulder.

This is a no-frills launch that somebody actually takes care of. The ramp and lot stay surprisingly clean for how exposed they are to Lake Michigan weather. Two lanes for the size of the lot feels generous.

The launch sits in Grand Traverse County but is administered by Menominee County, which is way up in the U.P. Don't be confused if you're trying to track down info or report an issue — the local county won't be much help.

There's no breakwall or harbor protection here. If the wind is pushing from the west or northwest, you'll be fighting waves right at the ramp. Pick your weather window carefully, and this isn't the spot to launch anything under 18 feet on a choppy day.

There's a $5 launch fee, so bring cash or be prepared. It's worth it for quick access to this stretch of Grand Traverse coastline without dealing with the circus at Clinch Park or Elmwood Township.