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 RampParkingRestroomsADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Long Lake

Dowling, MI · Boat Ramp · Public

Long Lake is a public boat ramp on Long Lake near Dowling, Michigan. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Hours

Open at all times

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

Launch into Long Lake near Dowling, Michigan. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Long Lake is a public access point on Long Lake in Michigan, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle.

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

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

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Long Lake 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 Long Lake?
Long Lake is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Open at all times.
What activities are available at Long Lake?
Long Lake 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 Long Lake?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Long Lake?
The best time to paddle at Long Lake is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Long Lake?
Water conditions at Long Lake include calm, sheltered.
Is Long Lake good for beginners?
Yes, Long Lake 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: 42.4786, -85.2449

Quick Facts

Region
Great Lakes
Getting There
~5 min from Dowling
Get Directions

42.4786, -85.2449

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