Float the Platte and Crystal Rivers

The winding, clear Crystal River.

NPS credit

Canoe, kayak, or float these calm rivers. Rent equipment near either launch site if you don’t have your own. Great for kids!

Details

Duration

2-3 Hours

Activity

Paddling

The Lakeshore's two rivers provide easy river paddling and floating. Enjoy the peaceful natural setting of the river. Look for wildflowers along the bank or a Great Blue Heron feeding in the river ahead.

Or cool off with a relaxing float on a tube or raft down the Platte River on a hot summer day. This is one of the most popular recreational activities to beat the heat of summer. The river is shallow and clear, and while it moves along at a good pace, there are no rapids to contend with. You will see a multitude of different wildflowers and birds on your trip, so pay careful attention to the shoreline.

You can either bring your own tube, raft, air mattress, etc. or you can rent them from local outfitters. If you need to rent during the height of the summer season, you will want to plan ahead and get reservations.

Float a one hour loop from the Platte River Picnic area or Riverside livery to just above Loon Lake and then carry your tube for a 10 minute walk back to your car.

If you have more time, you can take a 2 hour float. In this case, you will put in at the Fish Weir just below Loon Lake and float to the mouth of the Platte where it flows into Lake Michigan. In this case, you will have to carry your tube about 1/4 mile from the road to the river along a gravel road to the Fish Weir and shuttle your car to the parking lot at Platte Point at the end of Lake Michigan Road where you will end your trip.

Age(s)

All ages

Pets Allowed

Yes

Must be on six-foot leash at all times.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Platte and Crystal Rivers

The Platte River is located in the southern part of the park, and canoes, kayaks, and tubes can be rented where the river crosses M-22. Platte River: M-22 to Lake Michigan Rd., 10 miles south of Empire

In the northern part of the park, near Glen Arbor, the Crystal River flows from Glen Lake to Lake Michigan and canoes and kayaks can be rented in Glen Arbor Crystal River: M-22 north of Glen Arbor to Co. Rd. 675, to Fisher Rd.

Reservations

No

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

Platte River Picnic Area is equipped with accessible parking, restrooms, picnic shelters, and a fish cleaning station, raised grills, and a hardened surface river walk. Some assistance may be necessary on the ramps to the river walk and to access boats on the river's edge.

Platte River Point beach and picnic area is equipped with accessible parking, restrooms with running water, accessible dressing rooms and raised charcoal grills.