Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Best Time to Visit
Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area
Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area is a public boat ramp on Sturgeon River Slough near Chassell, Michigan. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in summer.
At a Glance
Water Body
River
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Hours
Open at all times
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Good
Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
About This Location
Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area offers river paddling on Sturgeon River Slough in Michigan. Located near Chassell.
Located in Michigan, Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area puts you on Sturgeon River Slough with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.
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. Great Lakes paddling combines freshwater vastness with coastal-style conditions and scenery.
Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms.
Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area sits about 5 min from Chassell, making it a convenient option for local and visiting 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 Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area?
- Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Open at all times.
- What activities are available at Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area?
- Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area?
- The best time to paddle at Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area is during summer. June through August
- What are the water conditions at Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area?
- Water conditions at Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area include mild current.
- Is Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area good for beginners?
- Yes, Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area 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: 47.0111, -88.4929
Quick Facts
- State
- Michigan
- Region
- Great Lakes
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Chassell
47.0111, -88.4929
Best Paddling in Michigan
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Share a trip report
Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Sturgeon River Slough Wildlife Area
Sign InNearby Paddling

Chassel Centennial Park
Michigan · 1.8 mi
Portage River Harbor of Refuge
Michigan · 3.1 mi
Portage Lake
Michigan · 3.1 mi
White City Road
Michigan · 3.5 mi
Otter Lake Dam
Michigan · 6.4 mi
Sandy Bottom Park
Michigan · 7.1 mi