Bass Lake Access

Fishing and boating fun on Bass Lake.

NPS credit

Quick Facts

Amenities

7 listed

Beach/Water Access, Canoe/Kayak/Small Boat Launch, Dock/Pier, Parking - Auto, Picnic Table, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Wheelchair Accessible

Bass Lake in the Platte Plains area is probably the best-known all-purpose lake in the park for hiking, canoeing, and fishing. Surrounded by aspen, white pine, and cedar, the calm lake is protected from the winds off Lake Michigan and is a great starter lake for teaching kids about fishing, hiking, or boating. Kids love to fish and swim off of the sturdy dock; while others enjoy sitting on the dock's bench, watching the water and listening to bird song.

The boat ramp is excellent and handicap accessible. You can easily carry your canoe or kayak to the ramp to get your paddle underway. Poke around the lake's perimeter to discover wildflowers and beaver-chewed tree stumps, or just float and soak in Bass Lake's quiet beauty.

Bass lake offers a perfect recipe for relaxation and family fun.

No motorized boats are allowed.

Hiking? Join the 3.5 mile Bass Lake Loop of the Platte Plains trail at the parking lot. You may also wish to add an optional, more strenuous .8-mile spur to Lake Michigan.

Paddle safe

Before going out for a paddle, check the weather. Have a boating plan and make sure others know it. Always wear safety gear, including personal flotation devices. Buddy up, don't go out alone. Check your boat and make sure it is safe for conditions. And always keep the shoreline in sight.

Clean Your Boats
Please clean, drain, and dry your boat after you leave any body of water, especially Lake Michigan, to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. This is especially important for our inland lakes.

For more information on aquatic invasive species and their impacts to lakes, streams, and how we recreate please visit the following websites:
www.protectyourwaters.net
www.nps.gov/slbe/naturescience/nonnativespecies.htm