a boat in the water
Photo by Nick Perez on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsDockADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

St. Mays Lake

Pentwater, MI · Boat Ramp · Public

St. Mays Lake is a public boat ramp on St. Mays Lake near Pentwater, 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 St. Mays Lake near Pentwater, Michigan. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

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

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 calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock and ada accessible.

Located about 5 min from Pentwater, St. Mays Lake is a convenient option for Pentwater-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make St. Mays 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 St. Mays Lake?
St. Mays Lake is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Open at all times.
What activities are available at St. Mays Lake?
St. Mays 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 St. Mays Lake?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit St. Mays Lake?
The best time to paddle at St. Mays Lake is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at St. Mays Lake?
Water conditions at St. Mays Lake include calm, sheltered.
Is St. Mays Lake good for beginners?
Yes, St. Mays 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: 43.8333, -86.2917

Quick Facts

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

43.8333, -86.2917

Best Paddling in Michigan

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for St. Mays Lake

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!