Fox River State Forest Campground Boat Launch

There's no boat ramp here — zero lanes, zero trailer parking. This is a carry-down situation only. Canoes and kayaks work, but you're sliding them down a short, steep bank to the river. The paths cut into the hillside help, but it's not exactly graceful with a loaded boat.

This is a wade-fishing and small-craft destination on the Fox River, not a powerboat launch. The river holds brook trout and has that classic Upper Peninsula tannin-stained flow. If you're hauling a trailer up here expecting to launch a bass boat, turn around now.

Deep in the Schoolcraft County backcountry, administered by Indian Lake State Park. You might be the only person here, especially midweek or early season. First weekend of June and you could have the whole place to yourself. The solitude is the draw.

From late May through summer, the mosquitoes here are legitimately punishing. This isn't a casual warning — bring a head net and serious repellent or you'll be miserable loading and unloading gear along the river.

The campground sits above the river, and the drop down to the water is steeper than you'd expect. Carrying a canoe or kayak down is doable but awkward, and coming back up loaded with wet gear is a workout. Scout your put-in spot before committing.