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Access Site MI

Dead River Storage Basin

Dead River

Source: michigan_department_of_natural_resources Updated 1 year ago

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City: Negaunee, MI
County: Marquette County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 46.56483580, -87.56430057
HC7P+W7 Negaunee, MI, USA
Air Temp: --
Location
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Nearby Gauge Conditions
Dead River at Marquette, MI Same River 7.3 mi away
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Real-time data from USGS Water Services
Whitewater Runs on Dead River
2 runs
Difficulty Classes
I Easy II Novice III Intermediate IV Advanced V Expert/Extreme VI Unrunnable
Position relative to this access site: Put-in at this location This location is on the run Take-out at this location
Downstream from here Upstream from here
IV-V+ Downstream from here (3.2 mi to put-in) McClure Dam to Forestville Rd. (6.9 miles)
6.6 mi 59 ft/mi
III-IV Downstream from here (10.6 mi to put-in) Tourist Park Falls: CR 550 Bridge (0.3 miles)
0.1 mi 60 ft/mi
Whitewater data from American Whitewater
About This Access Site
The Dead River Storage Basin boat ramp, located off Hoist Dam Road near Negaunee in Marquette County, provides access to a 2,724-acre impoundment managed by Van Riper State Park. This is an excellent launch point for kayakers and canoeists seeking a quieter paddling experience in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The facility offers a boat ramp and parking, making it convenient for launching small craft and exploring the basin's calm waters.

The Dead River Storage Basin is known for outstanding fishing opportunities, particularly for smallmouth bass, and the surrounding area remains relatively undiscovered by recreational paddlers. The basin offers protected paddling conditions suitable for various skill levels. Nearby, you'll find multiple access points to other sections of the Dead River system—Wright Road provides access to the lower and middle falls and Forestville Dam, while Neejee Road and McClure Dam Road lead to upper waterfalls and additional exploration opportunities.

For trip planning, note that this site is located about 10 miles northwest of Negaunee. Be sure to check current conditions and any seasonal access restrictions with Van Riper State Park before your visit. The area's remote character means services are limited, so plan accordingly for water, supplies, and weather conditions.