Little Muskegon River

The river corridor features steep banks and unique scenery. The forest along the river varies from mixed oak, pine and aspen to white cedar and hemlock stands. As the river flows through the Huron-Manistee National Forest paddlers will be treated to a varied ride starting with a pool and riffle stream, moving into a wider, deeper and slower float as the river approaches Croton Dam Pond. For most of the trip the river travels at a steady 2.5 mph and even shallow portions of the river are passable during summer months.

As paddlers enter the pond they will be sharing the area with larger boats and water-skiers. Ownership along the river is primarily private and there are no federal facilities available.

General Information

Location - Mecosta to Croton Dam Pond

County - Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo

Seasonal and Other Information -

The parking lot and boat launch are not gated during the off season.
The parking lot and boat launch are not maintained in winter:
- Parking lots are not snowplowed.

Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week unless otherwise posted.

Special Use Permit -

No special use permit is required for individuals or small groups (74 people or less).
Permits are required for commercial, event or large groups (75 people or more).

Paddling Restrictions Violations of the Maritime Safety Act are strictly enforced on this river. To protect the river and provide an enjoyable paddling experience for all visitors, the following restrictions apply: The following are prohibited:

Each paddler needs a Personal Flotation Device (PFD). Children under 12 must wear one at all times.
Fasten all equipment, bottles and containers to the watercraft.
Pack out all trash.
Reduce erosion - don't climb river banks.
The following are prohibited: fireworks; nudity; drunk and disorderly/underage; drugs; harassing wildlife; diving from/standing in watercraft; trespassing; collecting animals/plants/driftwood; glass/foam food containers/balloons.
Use public sites for rest stops.

A Forest Service office with wood and gray siding with a green lawn.

Address: 650 North Michigan Ave. Baldwin, MI 49304
Phone: (231) 745-4631
Hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (Closed on federal holidays)

Getting There

Directions

From Morley -

Exit I-131 and travel east on Jefferson Rd. for 1 mile.
Turn left and travel south on 190th St. for 1.5 miles.
Turn left and travel east on Eisenhower/North County Line Rd. for .5 miles.
Turn left and travel south on Henkel Rd. for .75 miles.
Turn on Maple Hill Rd.:
- Turn right and travel north .25 miles to boat launch.
- Turn left and travel south .25 miles to parking area.