Craft & Seasonality
✓
Motorboat ✓
Kayak / Canoe ✓
Jet Ski / PWC ✗
Large Boat ✗
Winter Access Site Details
Conditions change rapidly due to water levels, prop wash, and weather. Always visually inspect before backing down.
RampUnimproved, 1 lane
Trailer Parking3 spots · grass/soil
Vehicle-Only3 spots
FeeNo fee
HoursOpen at all times
Not Available Fish cleaning · Fishing pier · Restrooms · Pier
Scout's Notes
Ramp Quirks & Etiquette
Buried Ramp
The old plank ramp is almost completely covered in sediment. You're basically launching off mud and whatever's left of some 1-inch boards underneath. Small boats and canoes only — don't even think about trailering anything heavy down there.
Tiny Window
Three trailer spots sounds generous until you realize the turnaround space is tight and the lane is narrow. If someone's already parked and rigging, you're waiting on the road. Best to come early or midweek when you'll likely have the place to yourself.
True Backcountry Launch
This is deep Marquette County woods managed by the Gwinn Forestry unit. The access road is unpaved and can get rutted out, especially after spring thaw or heavy rain. Know where you're going before you head in — signage is minimal at best.
Creek Size Limits
Sawmill Creek is small water. You're looking at kayaks, canoes, or maybe a little Jon boat. Anything over 12 feet is going to be more hassle than it's worth between the narrow creek and the primitive launch conditions.
Sources: DNR GIS data, Google Reviews
About This Lake
Sawmill Creek →