HomeMichiganIron County

Net River

Iron County, Michigan River Connected Water
2 launchesRec Passport required
Net River Access Map 2 launches
Click markers for details
Boat Launches on Net River
Snake Rapids Boat Launch
Baraga State Park · Unimproved ramp, 1 lane, 3 trailer spots
Open Motorboat Kayak Rec Passport
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The Wide Waters River Boat Launch
Baraga State Park · Unimproved ramp, 1 lane, 5 trailer spots
Open Motorboat Kayak Rec Passport
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Connected Waterways

The Net River's headwaters rise in Baraga County before flowing southwest into Iron County, where it joins the Paint River above Crystal Falls. The Paint River is part of the Brule River system, which flows to the Menominee River along the Michigan-Wisconsin border — making the Net River a small but scenic piece of a much larger watershed.

Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Net River in Michigan?
The Net River flows through Iron County in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Its headwaters rise in Baraga County and it flows southwest to join the Paint River above Crystal Falls.
How long is the Net River?
The Net River is 14.9 miles long (about 24 km), running from its headwaters in Baraga County to its confluence with the Paint River in Iron County.
Can you kayak or canoe the Net River?
Yes — there are three launch points along the river, which makes it well suited for paddle trips. The relatively short length means you can plan a manageable float without a full-day commitment.
Are there campgrounds near the Net River?
Yes. Perch Lake Campground and Block House Campground are both nearby. This is remote UP forest country, so expect rustic facilities rather than full-service campgrounds.
What river does the Net River flow into?
The Net River flows into the Paint River above Crystal Falls. The Paint River is part of the larger Brule-Menominee River watershed, which forms the Michigan-Wisconsin border.
Is there a boat launch on the Net River?
There are three boat launches along the Net River. Reviews mention a nice landing — expect basic access points suitable for canoes, kayaks, and small boats rather than large ramps.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

The Net River is a 14.9-mile river flowing southwest from its headwaters in Baraga County through Iron County before joining the Paint River above Crystal Falls. This is a small, remote Upper Peninsula waterway — not a lake in the traditional sense, but it has three launch points and enough interest to draw paddlers and anglers into the Iron County backcountry. The river feeds into the Paint River system, which ultimately reaches the Brule and then the Menominee River along the Wisconsin border.

With three launches along its relatively short run, it's well set up for canoe and kayak floats. The area is lightly developed UP forest country — expect solitude, not amenities. Perch Lake Campground and Block House Campground are nearby options for overnighting. Reviews are sparse but positive, calling it a "beautiful place" with a nice boat landing. Crystal Falls, the Iron County seat, is the closest town for supplies.

Sources: Wikipedia, Google Reviews, DNR data, campground & beach reviews, ShorelineScout enrichment