Burt Lake State Park
Burt Lake State Park: Michigan’s Inland Waterway Basecamp
On the sandy shores of Burt Lake — one of Michigan’s largest inland lakes — sits a state park that has been drawing families north since 1921. Burt Lake State Park in Cheboygan County offers 2,000 feet of sandy beach, a massive campground with 306 modern sites, and direct access to one of Michigan’s most unique boating experiences: the 38-mile Inland Waterway, a connected chain of rivers and lakes that stretches from Lake Huron to Crooked Lake.
This is Northern Michigan at its most classic: clear water, tall pines, sunsets that turn the lake gold, and fishing for walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass in one of the state’s most productive lakes. Whether you’re launching a boat, building sandcastles, or ice fishing in January, Burt Lake delivers the quintessential Up North experience.
Park Facts at a Glance
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Location | Indian River, Cheboygan County, Northern Michigan |
| 📐 Park Size | 406 acres |
| 🏖️ Beach | 2,000 feet of sandy shoreline |
| 🛥️ Waterway | 38-mile Michigan Inland Waterway access |
| 🏕️ Camping | 306 modern sites (30/50 amp electric) |
| 🎣 Fishing | Walleye, pike, smallmouth bass, perch |
| 🚤 Boat Launch | Double concrete ramp + loading dock |
| 💰 Passport | Michigan Recreation Passport required |
| 🕐 Season | May-October (camping), year-round (day use) |
| 📞 Phone | (231) 238-9392 |
Burt Lake and the Inland Waterway
Burt Lake covers over 17,000 acres, making it one of Michigan’s largest inland lakes. But what makes it truly special is its position on the Michigan Inland Waterway — a 38-mile navigable chain of lakes and rivers that connects Lake Huron at Cheboygan through Mullett Lake, the Indian River, Burt Lake, Crooked River, and Crooked Lake. You can literally launch your boat from the state park and cruise for miles through some of Northern Michigan’s most beautiful scenery.
Fishing
Burt Lake is renowned among Michigan anglers for its excellent walleye fishing, particularly in spring and fall. The lake also produces good numbers of northern pike, smallmouth bass, perch, and panfish. Shore fishing from the state park beach is productive, and the boat launch provides easy access to the lake’s deeper structure. Ice fishing is extremely popular in winter — walleye and perch are the primary targets on the hard water.
The Beach
The park’s 2,000-foot sandy beach is one of the best public beaches in Northern Michigan. The water stays shallow for a considerable distance, making it ideal for families with small children. The beach faces west, which means spectacular sunset views across the full expanse of Burt Lake.
Camping
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Sites | 306 modern campsites |
| Electric | 30 and 50-amp service |
| Facilities | Shower buildings, flush toilets, dump station |
| Cabins | Mini cabins available |
| Season | May through October |
| Reservations | Highly recommended for summer |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Michigan Inland Waterway?
The Michigan Inland Waterway is a 38-mile navigable chain of rivers and lakes in Northern Michigan. It connects Lake Huron at Cheboygan through Mullett Lake, the Indian River, Burt Lake, the Crooked River, and Crooked Lake. Boaters can launch at Burt Lake State Park and travel the entire waterway. It’s one of Michigan’s unique boating experiences, passing through pristine northern forests and connecting several towns along the way.
What kind of fish are in Burt Lake?
Burt Lake is known for excellent walleye fishing, particularly in spring and fall. The lake also holds northern pike, smallmouth bass, perch, bluegill, and other panfish. Ice fishing is very popular in winter for walleye and perch. The state park has both shore fishing access and a double concrete boat launch for anglers with boats.
Do Burt Lake State Park campsites have electric hookups?
Yes! Unlike many Michigan state parks, Burt Lake offers modern campsites with both 30-amp and 50-amp electrical service. The campground also has shower buildings, flush toilets, and a dump station. With 306 sites, it’s one of the larger campgrounds in Northern Michigan. Reservations are highly recommended for summer weekends and holidays.
