Tippy Dam State Recreation Area Upper Boat Launch

Two trailer spots — that's it. During salmon and steelhead runs (roughly September through November, then again in spring), those two spots are gone by dawn. There's overflow parking up by the headquarters building, but you're hoofing it back to the ramp. If you're trailering a boat, get there early or have a Plan B.

This launch exists in the shadow of some of the best river salmon fishing in Michigan. The banks get absolutely packed during runs, especially after work hours and all weekend long. If you're trying to launch a boat, you're navigating through a crowd of wading anglers and shore casters who've staked out every inch of riverbank. It's a different vibe than a typical boat launch.

One lane, and it's really geared more toward kayaks and small boats than anything with serious draft. This is a dam pond on the Manistee — not open water. If you're putting in anything bigger than a 16-footer, you're going to feel it. Great for kayak drops heading downstream, though.

Salmon fishing picks up significantly after dark here, so don't be surprised to find the area busy well past sunset. That also means retrieving a boat or trailer in the dark with minimal lighting and anglers everywhere. Plan accordingly if you're pulling out late.

There's river access on the other side via a stairway, but it's a roughly 20-minute drive difference and the access is way worse. This upper recreation area side has actual road, a ramp, a fish cleaning station, and campground facilities. If someone tells you to go to 'the stairs,' politely decline.