William C. Sterling State Park

William C. Sterling State Park offers a barrier-free boat launch at the north end of the park, providing access to Lake Erie from a protected small bay. This is Michigan's only state park located on Lake Erie and encompasses 1,300 acres of beach and lagoon environments near the mouth of Sandy Creek. The launch facility is primarily designed for motorized boats but is also suitable for kayaks and canoes. If you prefer to avoid the ramp, paddlers can launch directly from the sandy beach into Lake Erie.

The park is well-equipped with full amenities including a modern 256-site campground, cottages, restrooms, and changing facilities, making it convenient for day-use or overnight trips. The protected bay setting provides a more sheltered launch compared to open lake conditions. Note that Lake Erie is a large, shallow Great Lake that can develop significant wind and wave conditions, so paddlers should check weather forecasts and water conditions before heading out. The park's location near the mouth of Sandy Creek offers additional exploration opportunities for canoeists and kayakers interested in more protected paddling.