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Boating the Great Lakes - Michigan harbors

boats in a harbor

Boating the Great Lakes - Michigan harbors

Michigan boasts the longest freshwater coastline in the U.S. and 82 beautiful harbors. Whether you're heading to one of our 18 DNR-managed harbor or 64 grant-in-aid harbors, endless Great Lakes adventures await. Put your next boating trip on the books with these helpful resources.

Plan your trip!

Michigan's harbors offer a variety of amenities and activities for both vacationers and staycationers. Whether you're looking to sleep on your boat or tie it off for the night, Michigan harbors have something to offer all boaters.

screenshot of harbor map with location markers

Interactive harbor map & reservations

Use our interactive map to find harbor locations and reservation details.

Interactive harbor map & reservation info »

This guide is not intended for navigational use. Please refer to your lake charts as a guide for navigational information.

playlist of harbor videos

Get a bird's-eye view

Planning your arrival? Check out our new aerial drone footage to see exactly what it looks like to navigate from open water into the harbor, helping you visualize the overall layout before you pull into your slip. Please note: We're building our list and more videos will be posted soon.

View Michigan harbor and marina playlist »

Grayhaven State Harbor updates

Grayhaven State Harbor is now under DNR management. As we begin our first season of operations, please note the following updates for 2026. While transient slip reservations opened on March 15, please be aware that electrical service is unavailable this season. To book a slip or for any questions, please contact us at 313-269-2857.

Make a reservation

Book your trip at MiDNRReservations.com under the "Harbor" tab. Note: Some grant-in-aid harbors handle reservations differently – use the interactive map to find alternate reservation info.

Cheboygan River Lock schedule

The Cheboygan Lock provides seasonal access to Michigan's Inland Waterway for recreational and commercial watercraft up to 16 feet wide and 75 feet long.

Crooked River Lock schedule

The Crooked River Lock connects Crooked Lake to the Crooked River, which is a popular scenic boating route on the 38-mile Inland Waterway.

Harbor rules

Review official check-in and check-out times, alongside general harbor rules, to ensure a smooth stay.

Electric shock drowning

You're at risk by entering the water near a boat or dock powered by electricity.

Great Lakes beach safety tips

Rip currents, high waves and other dangerous currents and wave conditions can occur in the Great Lakes.

Great Lakes water levels

Water levels forecast, weather and more from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.