Devils Lake Boat Launch

The porta-john situation here is genuinely bad. Summer weekends especially — expect it to be overflowing and nasty. Plan accordingly before you get in line to launch, or make a pit stop somewhere else on the way in.

The ramps themselves are solid concrete and in good shape, but the parking lot has some ugly potholes that sneak up on you when you're backing a trailer. Take it slow pulling in — a blown tire in a launch lot is a miserable way to start your day.

Hayes State Park administers this launch, so you'll need a Michigan Recreation Passport on your plate. They check more often on summer weekends, but midweek or off-season you might not see anyone at the gate. Don't risk it — the fine isn't worth it.

Devils Lake has a well-known sandbar that draws pontoons, tubers, and party boats all summer long. Saturday afternoons from Memorial Day through Labor Day it turns into a floating parking lot out there. If you're fishing, work the deeper water on the opposite end or come early morning before the circus sets up.

Four lanes and 65 trailer spots is generous for a Lenawee County lake, and after September 1st you'll practically have the place to yourself. Fall fishing here is underrated — fewer boats, less ski traffic, and the bass bite picks up once the lake quiets down.