South Gemini Lake State Forest Campground Boat Launch

There's no real boat ramp here — just a carry-in access point near site 5. If you're bringing a canoe, kayak, or small inflatable, you're golden. Anything with a trailer isn't happening at this spot.

The lake is restricted to non-motorized watercraft, so don't plan on bringing the bass boat. That said, it keeps the lake dead quiet and the fishing surprisingly solid — pike in the 18-20" range hit regularly, and there are walleye in here too.

The road in is dirt and manageable at low speeds, but heavy rain turns it into an adventure, especially if you're towing. A Kia Soul can handle it dry, but give yourself some grace after a storm.

Sites 4 and 5 sit right on the water and basically give you private lake access for launching a kayak or canoe. First-come, first-served — weekdays you'll likely have your pick, but even Saturdays aren't a guarantee of being full. Get there by mid-morning to be safe.

No electric, no dump station, no running water — just a hand-pumped well with brownish but potable water. Bring your own TP for the vault toilets. Bugs are brutal in July, so plan accordingly. On the upside, virtually zero light pollution makes for incredible dark skies.