Pontiac Lake Boat Launch

Despite having four lanes on paper, this is a dirt ramp — not concrete. Trucks and trailers get stuck here regularly, especially after rain. If you're launching anything bigger than a small fishing boat, think twice or bring a buddy who can pull you out.

The drive in winds through a tight residential road with kids everywhere. Keep it under 15 mph and be patient. It feels like you're driving into someone's neighborhood because you basically are.

Zero designated trailer spots. People improvise along the road and wherever they can squeeze in, but it fills fast on summer weekends. The state will close the launch entirely when capacity is hit. If you're trailering in on a Saturday in July, get there before 9 AM or you might be turned away.

There are stumps lurking in the water near the launch area. Go slow on your way out until you're well clear. On a 640-acre all-sports lake you'd expect a clean approach, but not here.

This launch really shines as a kayak or canoe drop-in, especially if you want to explore the marshy west side of Pontiac Lake. The other launch near the beach rec area works too, but this one puts you right where you want to be without paddling across the whole lake.