As the year grows into warm and sunny weather, time on the water is a great way to embrace it. Included below are 10 boat launches in Genesee County where you can set off with your kayaks, sailboats, and other watercraft. Just remember to follow all state boating laws and regulations while you enjoy yourselves on the water.
For any DNR launches, visit their website at www.michigan.gov/dnr/buy-and-apply/rec-pp to learn more about the Michigan Recreation Passports necessary for entry and how to obtain them.
Bluegill Boat Launch (Flint)
Bluegill Boat Launch is open for boating, fishing, and kayak rentals. Boat launch permits for this year are valid from April through September, so remember to display them on your car window when you arrive. Vehicle permits may be purchased in March at the Genesee County Parks Administrative Offices during regular business hours or at the boat launches during the boating season.
→ Annual Parking Pass: $45 for residents, $60 for non-residents,
$30 for seniors
→ Daily Parking Pass: $15 for vehicles, $10 for seniors
Buell Lake Boat Launch (Clio)
Just east of Buell Lake County Park is a boat launch and lake perfect for no-wake boating, kayaking, and fishing!
Byram Lake Public Boat Launch (Linden)
Located in Linden County Park, this boat launch is open for free Friday through Sunday, the last two weekends in April and the first two weekends of October. Just keep in mind that fishing is prohibited on the beach.
Lake Fenton Boat Launch (Fenton Township)
This DNR boat launch features multiple ramps and docks suited for medium-sized boats. Just make sure you have your Michigan Recreation Passport affixed to the lower right of your windshield inside your car.
Lake Ponemah Boat Launch (Fenton Township)
Located on Eastview Drive off North Road, this DNR launch includes parking, restrooms, and a ramp suitable for medium watercraft. The only fee is your Michigan Recreation Passport.
Linden Mill Pond Launch (Linden)
Suitable as a carry-in launch point for small boats like kayaks or canoes, this pond is a great place for paddling in peace.
Lobdell Lake Boat Launch (Linden/Argentine Township)
A public launch point with a hard ramp suitable for medium watercraft, this DNR launch site is located roughly a mile southwest of Lobdell Lake Boathouse Marina, with a quick transport to the ramp. Just make sure you have your Michigan Recreation Passport affixed to the lower right of your windshield inside your car.
Strom Park Boat Launch (Fenton)
Need to paddle the day away? Strom Park is not only a free-to-access park, but also a kayak launch point into the Shiawassee River Water Trail.
Walleye Pike Boat Launch (Davison)
This Genesee County Park leads straight into Holloway Reservoir and offers different launch docks for kayaks and smaller boats, as well as larger boats needing a 45-foot dock, all perfect for boating and fishing. Parking pass costs are listed below as follows, with launch fees payable April through September at the boat launch or at the Genesee County Parks Administrative Offices during regular hours.
→ Annual Parking Pass: $45 for residents, $60 for non-residents,
$30 for seniors
→ Daily Parking Pass: $15 for vehicles, $10 for seniors
Zemmer Park (Lapeer)
This hidden gem of a Genesee County Park is a great place for quiet fishing and medium watercraft via gravel ramp, open 8AM to sunset daily.
