Little Brevort Lake State Forest Campground North Boat Launch

This is strictly a no-motor lake — don't even think about bringing a trolling motor. It's kayaks, canoes, and small rowboats only. That said, it's one of the quietest paddle lakes you'll find in the UP, and the fishing is surprisingly good for pike, bass, perch, bluegill, and crappie.

One lane, one trailer spot — this is really just a small put-in for hand-carry boats or a light cartop setup. There's no real turnaround area, so if someone else is unloading, you're waiting on a narrow dirt campground road. Not a place you'd bring a big trailer to anyway.

The lake is loaded with weeds, especially by midsummer. You'll be pulling vegetation off your paddle and your line constantly. But the fish stack up in those weed beds — bluegill right off the launch, pike cruising the edges. Bring a weedless rig or plan on cleaning your lures every other cast.

There's a spring-fed artesian well at the campground that locals treat like their personal water supply. Expect a steady stream of cars pulling in with jugs and bottles, especially on weekends. It's not a problem for launching, but the extra traffic on the campground road can be a minor nuisance when you're hauling gear to the water.

About 25 minutes south of the Mackinac Bridge off US-2, so access is dead simple. Sandy bottom near the launch makes for a pleasant wade-in if you want to cool off. The Switchback Ridge trail starts right here too, so it's a solid spot to pair a morning paddle with an afternoon hike.