Exploring Ford Lake: Boat Launch Accessibility And More

Ford Lake, an artificial freshwater reservoir in Washtenaw County, Michigan, offers boating, personal watercraft, fishing, and other recreational activities. There are several boat launches at Ford Lake, including the Ford Lake Boat Launch in Ypsilanti, Michigan, and another in Sheridan Township, Mason County, Northwest Region. Bailey's Ford Park Boat Launch is also located on Ford Lake. The lake is named after business magnate Henry Ford and offers a range of activities for water enthusiasts, from boating and fishing to swimming and water skiing.

Ford Lake Boat Launch location and amenities

Ford Lake Boat Launch: Location and Amenities

There are two Ford Lake Boat Launch locations that can be found in the United States. One is in Ypsilanti Township, Washtenaw County, Southeast Michigan, and the other is in Sheridan Township, Mason County, Northwest Michigan.

Ypsilanti Township, Washtenaw County, Southeast Michigan

The Ford Lake Boat Launch in Ypsilanti Township is the ultimate destination for water enthusiasts. Nestled on the picturesque shores of Ford Lake, this boat launch offers a range of amenities for an unforgettable day on the water. The launch provides easy access to the expansive Ford Lake, which spans over 975 acres. Whether you're into fishing, water skiing, or simply cruising along the serene waters, Ford Lake has something for everyone.

The boat launch itself is well-maintained and designed to accommodate boats of all sizes, from small fishing boats to large pontoons. In addition, there is ample parking space available for vehicles and trailers. The staff is always on hand to assist with launching and retrieving your boat, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience. Restroom facilities and picnic areas are also available on-site for your convenience.

Ford Lake is a freshwater artificial reservoir located along the Huron River in Ypsilanti. The lake was created in the early 1930s with the construction of the Ford Lake Dam, originally known as the Rawsonville Dam. The lake is named after business magnate Henry Ford.

Sheridan Township, Mason County, Northwest Michigan

The Ford Lake Boat Launch in Sheridan Township accommodates medium-sized watercraft and has a hard surface. Restroom facilities are also available at this location.

Other Boat Launch Options

There are also boat launches at Britton Ford and Bailey's Ford Park.

Boating and water activities at Ford Lake

Ford Lake, an artificial freshwater reservoir located in Ypsilanti, Washtenaw County, Michigan, offers a range of boating and water activities for enthusiasts and beginners alike. The lake, named after business magnate Henry Ford, spans 975 acres with a maximum depth of 30 feet, providing ample space for various recreational pursuits.

Boat Launch Facilities

The Ford Lake Boat Launch in Ypsilanti Township serves as the gateway to an array of water adventures. The boat ramp provides easy access to the expansive lake, accommodating boats of all sizes, from small fishing boats to large pontoons. The facility also offers ample parking space for vehicles and trailers, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience for visitors.

Boating and Water Activities

Ford Lake is a popular destination for boating enthusiasts. Motorized boating is permitted on the lake, with the only boat launch for such vessels located within Ford Lake Park. In addition to motorized boating, Ford Lake is also suitable for personal watercraft, canoeing, and kayaking. The calm waters of the lake create an enjoyable experience for those seeking to cruise, explore, or engage in water skiing.

Fishing Opportunities

Anglers will find Ford Lake teeming with a diverse range of fish species. Common varieties include bass, pike, walleye, catfish, carp, crappies, sunfish, bluegill, white bass, and yellow perch. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck from the shore or cast their lines from boats, with the opportunity to reel in the catch of the day.

Swimming and Family Activities

While swimming is not a prevalent activity at Ford Lake due to water quality concerns, the lake still offers family-friendly attractions. The calm waters and sandy beaches of Ford Lake provide a pleasant setting for paddleboarding and other water activities. Families can enjoy picnics, build sandcastles, and take dips in the lake, creating memorable experiences in a natural setting.

Nearby Attractions

In addition to water activities, Ford Lake is surrounded by a variety of attractions. Ypsilanti offers a vibrant arts scene, unique shopping experiences, and delightful dining options. History buffs can explore the Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum, while nature enthusiasts can visit nearby Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum.

Fishing at Ford Lake

Ford Lake, named after business magnate Henry Ford, is a freshwater artificial reservoir located in Washtenaw County, Michigan. Covering 975 acres with a maximum depth of 30 feet, it is a popular destination for boating, personal watercraft, and fishing enthusiasts. The lake is easily accessible, just a short distance from downtown Ypsilanti, and offers stunning natural surroundings and crystal-clear waters.

Boat Launch Options

There are several boat launch options for accessing Ford Lake, including the Ford Lake Boat Launch, which is nestled on the picturesque shores of the lake. This boat ramp is designed for easy access and accommodates boats of all sizes. It offers state-of-the-art facilities, ample parking, and friendly staff to assist with launching and retrieving your boat. The Ford Lake Boat Launch is located at 5598 Council Ldg, Ypsilanti, Michigan, and is open from dawn to dusk every day. A small fee is charged for launching boats.

There are also other boat launches in the area, such as the Ford Park Boat Launch in Ypsilanti Township, which is suitable for large watercraft, and the Sheridan Township Boat Launch in Mason County, which accommodates medium watercraft.

Fishing Opportunities

Ford Lake is teeming with a variety of fish species, making it an angler's paradise. Common fish found in the lake include bullhead catfish, channel catfish, common carp, crappies, northern pike, smallmouth bass, suckers, sunfish, bluegill, walleye, white bass, and yellow perch. The largest fish caught in Ford Lake was a common carp, measuring an impressive 36.25 inches in length.

Whether you prefer fishing from a boat or casting your line from the shore, Ford Lake offers plentiful opportunities to make a great catch. Don't forget to bring your fishing gear and a cooler to store your fresh catch!

Water Quality and Safety

Ford Lake occasionally experiences algal blooms late in the summer, which are routinely monitored by the Washtenaw County Health Department and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. When algae levels become a concern, a "Do Not Eat" fish advisory is posted, and fishermen are advised to practice catch and release only. While boating and fishing are typically allowed year-round, direct contact with the water may be discouraged during harmful algal blooms.

Water quality and safety at Ford Lake

Water quality and safety are important considerations for anyone planning to visit Ford Lake. The lake, located in Ypsilanti, Michigan, is a popular destination for water enthusiasts, offering boating, fishing, water skiing, and other recreational activities. However, it is essential to be aware of potential water quality issues and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

One of the main concerns regarding water quality at Ford Lake is the presence of algal blooms, particularly cyanobacteria or blue-green algae. These algal blooms can produce toxins called cyanotoxins, which can be harmful to both humans and animals. In the past, state and local health officials have issued warnings, advising people to stay out of the lake due to the presence of harmful algal blooms. It is important to follow these advisories and avoid direct contact with water that has scums, a green sheen, or a spilled paint-like appearance, as indicated by health officials.

The Washtenaw County Health Department and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services closely monitor the water quality at Ford Lake. They regularly test the water to determine the levels of bacteria and issue advisories when necessary. While most algal blooms are not toxic, it is challenging to predict toxicity as a single species of algae can have both toxic and non-toxic strains. Additionally, a bloom that tests non-toxic one day may turn toxic the next, making it crucial to stay informed about the current water quality conditions before engaging in any water-related activities.

To improve water quality and prevent algal blooms, measures have been implemented, such as manipulating when and how water is discharged from the dam. Additionally, a new Michigan law prohibits the application of phosphorus-containing fertilizers to turf grass, which has helped reduce phosphorus levels in the Huron River, a contributing factor to algal growth.

It is important to follow safety guidelines and regulations when visiting Ford Lake. The boat launch facilities prioritize safety and provide easy-to-follow instructions and life jackets for rent. Additionally, swimming is not a common recreational activity on the lake, and it is recommended to avoid prolonged contact with the water, especially when algal blooms are present. Always exercise caution, stay informed about water quality updates, and follow guidelines issued by health officials to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at Ford Lake.

Attractions near Ford Lake

There is plenty to see and do near Ford Lake, an artificial reservoir in Washtenaw County, Michigan, named after business magnate Henry Ford. The lake is a hub for water enthusiasts, with boating, fishing, water skiing, and swimming all on offer.

Ford Lake Park

Ford Lake Park is one of four public lakeshore parks within Ypsilanti Township. It is home to the only boat launch for motorized vessels on the lake. The park is a great place to start your exploration of the lake, with its hard surface accommodating large watercraft.

Border-to-Border Trail

For those who prefer to stay on land, the Border-to-Border Trail runs along Ford Lake and is a popular spot for bicyclists. The trail offers beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding landscape, and at 975 acres, there is plenty of lake to explore.

Huron River Park

Another of the four public lakeshore parks, Huron River Park, is a great spot to access the Huron River, which flows into Ford Lake. The river is a great place for a gentle paddle, and you can explore the natural surroundings and wildlife of the area.

Ypsilanti

The charming town of Ypsilanti is just a short distance from Ford Lake and is well worth a visit. The town offers a vibrant arts scene, unique shopping, and delicious dining options. For history buffs, the Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum provides an insight into the automotive history of the region.

Natural Attractions

For nature enthusiasts, the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum offer a peaceful escape, with stunning gardens and scenic trails to explore.

Frequently asked questions