white and gray canoe beside gray wooden dock surrounded by body of water at daytime
Photo by Adam Perry on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Leland River

Lake Leelanau, MI · Boat Ramp · Public

Leland River is a public boat ramp on Lake Leelanau near Lake Leelanau, Michigan. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, ada accessible. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Hours

0400_2300

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Lake access at Leland River near Lake Leelanau, Michigan. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Situated on Lake Leelanau in Michigan, Leland River is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.

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.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. June through August is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and ada accessible.

Getting here from Lake Leelanau takes about 5 min, putting Leland River within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Leland River ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Leland River?
Leland River is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: 0400_2300.
What activities are available at Leland River?
Leland River supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Leland River?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Leland River?
The best time to paddle at Leland River is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Leland River?
Water conditions at Leland River include calm, sheltered.
Is Leland River good for beginners?
Yes, Leland River is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 45.0224, -85.7594

Quick Facts

Region
Great Lakes
Getting There
~5 min from Lake Leelanau
Get Directions

45.0224, -85.7594

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