Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Best Time to Visit
Black River Harbor
Black River Harbor is a public boat ramp on Black River near Bessemer, Michigan. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.
At a Glance
Water Body
River
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Limited
Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
About This Location
Boat Ramp accessing Black River near Bessemer, Michigan. mild current conditions.
Paddlers heading out on Black River will find Black River Harbor in Michigan a reliable starting point with established launch facilities.
Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.
You can expect mild current water when paddling here. The recommended season runs June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
Located about 15 min from Bessemer, Black River Harbor is a convenient option for Bessemer-area paddlers.
Paddling Tips
- •Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
- •Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
- •Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
- •River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Black River Harbor?
- Black River Harbor is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Black River Harbor?
- Black River Harbor supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Black River Harbor?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Black River Harbor?
- The best time to paddle at Black River Harbor is during summer. June through August
- What are the water conditions at Black River Harbor?
- Water conditions at Black River Harbor include mild current.
- Is Black River Harbor good for beginners?
- Yes, Black River Harbor is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 46.6661, -90.0481
Quick Facts
- State
- Michigan
- Region
- Great Lakes
- Getting There
- ~15 min from Bessemer
46.6661, -90.0481
Best Paddling in Michigan
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Black River
6 other launches on this water body

Mark Holmgren Memorial
Wisconsin · 168.2 mi
Perry Creek Park
Wisconsin · 170.4 mi
Melrose
Wisconsin · 182.6 mi
North Bend
Wisconsin · 185.4 mi
North Bend
Wisconsin · 186.0 mi
Highway 35 Bridge
Wisconsin · 194.5 mi
Nearby Paddling
Omans Creek
Michigan · 14.0 mi
Saxon Falls Flowage
Wisconsin · 17.8 mi

Gile Flowage - North
Wisconsin · 18.6 mi
McDonald Dam
Michigan · 19.1 mi

Highway C
Wisconsin · 19.2 mi
Saxon Harbor - 1
Wisconsin · 19.8 mi