Indian Channel Boat Launch

When Lake Michigan levels are up, this place goes underwater — ramps, docks, even parts of the parking lot. I've shown up to find the docks completely submerged and the ramp unusable. Check conditions before you make the drive, because it can go from fine to flooded fast.

The self-pay kiosk is a nightmare. It asks you to pick a numbered parking space, but there are no numbers on the actual spaces. Bring multiple credit cards — it rejects Amex and Discover outright, and even some Visa cards get declined. Budget an extra 10 minutes just to fight with the thing.

This is your best shot if you want quick access to Spring Lake and Lake Michigan from the Grand River side. No-wake zone until you hit the big lake, but it's a short run. You can watch the freighters come through the channel from here — worth the trip even if you're not launching.

Despite only 10 official trailer spots, there's overflow parking that handles busy weekends well. Friends without trailers can park for free. The catch is the 24-hour max — no multi-day trips. If you're planning an overnighter on the water, you'll need to find another spot to stash your trailer.

Launch fee has crept up to $15 per day, which stings for what you get — a couple of porta-johns and no real amenities beyond the ramps and docks. Residents and seniors get a discount, so ask about that. For the price, you'd expect more than plastic toilets, but you're really paying for the location.