Lake Michigan offers a wealth of opportunities for kayak enthusiasts, with numerous launch sites dotting its expansive shoreline. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a beginner, the Lake Michigan Kayak Launch sites provide access to the lake’s stunning natural beauty and diverse ecosystems.
Discover the Lakefront Launch Sites
Along the Indiana and Illinois coastlines of Lake Michigan, you’ll find a variety of launch sites that cater to the needs of kayakers and other water sports enthusiasts. These sites offer a range of amenities, from pet-friendly facilities and picnicking areas to restrooms and swimming beaches.
Indiana Launch Sites
- Whihala/Whiting: Located in Whiting, Indiana, this launch site offers amenities like pet-friendly facilities, picnicking, restrooms, and a swimming beach.
- East Chicago: In East Chicago, Indiana, this launch site provides picnicking, restrooms, and a swimming beach.
- Marquette/Gary: Located in Gary, Indiana, this site has amenities like picnicking, restrooms, and a swimming beach.
- Portage Lakefront Park: In Portage, Indiana, this park offers accessible facilities, parking, pet-friendly areas, picnicking, restrooms, and a swimming beach.
- Porter Beach: Located in Porter, Indiana, this beach offers parking, restrooms, and a swimming beach.
- Kemil Beach: In Porter, Indiana, this beach provides parking, restrooms, and a swimming beach.
- Dunbar Beach: Located in Michigan City, Indiana, this beach offers parking, restrooms, and a swimming beach.
- Lake View Beach: In Michigan City, Indiana, this beach provides parking, restrooms, and a swimming beach.
- Washington Park/Michigan City: This launch site in Michigan City, Indiana, offers parking, restrooms, and a swimming beach.
- Long Beach: Located in Long Beach, Indiana, this beach provides parking, restrooms, and a swimming beach.
Illinois Launch Sites
While the majority of the Lake Michigan Kayak Launch sites are located in Indiana, there are also several options in Illinois:
- Montrose Beach: Located in Chicago, Illinois, this beach offers parking, restrooms, and a swimming area.
- Diversey Harbor: In Chicago, Illinois, this harbor provides a launch site with parking and access to the lake.
- Waukegan Harbor: Located in Waukegan, Illinois, this harbor offers a launch site with parking and amenities.
Safety Considerations for Lake Michigan Kayaking
Kayaking on Lake Michigan requires careful planning and attention to safety. Before embarking on your adventure, consider the following:
- Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (life jacket).
- Check the NOAA Marine Forecast before your trip and be aware of changing weather and water conditions.
- Be visible by wearing bright, reflective clothing and a life jacket.
- Leave a detailed plan with someone on shore, including your route, companions, and expected return time.
- Paddle within your limits and abilities, and avoid situations that make you feel uncomfortable.
- Watch for boat traffic and avoid shipping lanes.
- Learn re-entry techniques before you need them by taking a safety or skills course.
Rentals and Tours
For those who don’t own their own kayaks, several local businesses offer rental and tour options along the Lake Michigan shoreline:
- Camp Stop General Store & Beach Shop: Offers kayak, paddleboard, and bike rentals in Beverly Shores, Indiana. Call ahead for prices and availability at 219-878-1382.
- Harbor Country Adventures: Provides kayak, paddleboard, and wave runner rentals in Michigan City, Indiana. They also offer guided tours along Lake Michigan.
- Bugaboat Rentals: Offers kayak and paddleboard rentals on Cedar Lake in Indiana. Call ahead for prices and availability at 219-390-7232.
Explore the Water Trails
In addition to the launch sites, Lake Michigan and its surrounding waterways offer several designated water trails for paddlers to explore:
- Lake Michigan Water Trail: A 1,638-mile water trail tracing the outline of Lake Michigan’s diverse coastline, managed by public agencies and private organizations in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
- Deep River Water Trail: A 16-mile trail with access sites along the way, offering scenic and primitive shorelines. The trip takes around 2-3 hours, and parking is available at Deep River County Park.
- Kankakee River Water Trail: A National Water Trail covering over 130 miles from Indiana to Illinois, with various launch sites and scenic routes.
Additional Resources
For more information on Lake Michigan Kayak Launch sites, safety guidelines, and water trails, check out the following resources:
- Northwest Indiana Paddling Association: Provides information on the Lake Michigan Water Trail, including safety guidelines and access points.
- Illinois Department of Natural Resources: Offers resources on water trails, including the Lake Michigan Water Trail, and safety tips for paddling.
Exploring the diverse coastline of Lake Michigan by kayak is an unforgettable experience. With numerous launch sites, safety considerations, rental options, and water trails, there’s something for every level of paddler to enjoy. Start planning your Lake Michigan kayaking adventure today!