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 · gravel
Vehicle-Only2 spots
FeeMI Recreation Passport (annual, on vehicle registration)
Hours8 AM – 10 PM
Not Available Fish cleaning · Fishing pier · Restrooms · Pier
Scout's Notes
Ramp Quirks & Etiquette
Ramp May Be Fenced
The ramp has been fenced off at times with no warning — don't make it your only plan without a backup. Call the Rifle River Recreation Area office before driving out, because there's no signage on the road telling you it's closed.
Shallow Lake Overall
Muskrat Lake is very shallow. You can get a 12-footer in and out, but don't bring anything bigger or with much draft. Kayaks and small jon boats are really the sweet spot here.
Lots Of Dirt Road
Getting here means committing to a stretch of rough two-track and unpaved county roads. Fine for trucks and SUVs, but low-clearance vehicles towing trailers will feel every rut. Take it slow — the roads get worse in spring.
Parking Is Tight
Three trailer spots is generous phrasing — it's basically a small clearing. On holiday weekends the campground fills up with ORV crowds and parking near the ramp becomes a negotiation. Weekdays you'll have the place to yourself.
Better For Paddle Craft
This is really a kayak and canoe launch that happens to have a ramp. The lake is scenic and quiet midweek, great for paddling and panfish. If you want a proper boat launch for anything serious, head to one of the Rifle River access points instead.
Sources: DNR GIS data, Google Reviews
About This Lake
Muskrat Lake →