Misery River Kayaking Guide

The Misery River runs 24.2 miles from Lake Roland in Houghton County to Misery Bay on Lake Superior in Ontonagon County. Unlike many streams in this series, it has genuinely documented public access: Ontonagon County's recreation plan lists a state boat ramp, day-use area, and campground at the Misery River, and the mouth-area launch is mapped near 46.9983, -88.98057.

Here is the honest framing, though: that documented access supports a mouth-area paddle — the lower river and Misery Bay — not a claim that all 24.2 miles are navigable. The upper river, from Lake Roland down through the interior, has no documented paddle route, and river length is a geography fact, not an itinerary. Paddle what is documented; scout or skip the rest.

The mouth area itself is a worthwhile destination: a Lake Superior bay at the foot of a forested river valley, with a campground that makes an easy base for exploring the shoreline by kayak.

Paddling the Misery River

The mouth at Misery Bay (documented access)

The state boat ramp, day-use area, and campground at the Misery River — listed in Ontonagon County's 2023–27 recreation plan — give you real infrastructure at the river's mouth (about 46.9983, -88.98057). Paddle the lower river and the bay, keeping Lake Superior's moods in mind. This is the trip this guide can stand behind.

Upstream of the access (undocumented)

From Lake Roland in Houghton County down to the access area, the river's 24.2-mile course has no documented put-in, take-out, or portage information. Do not assume it is floatable — small UP rivers in this setting commonly hold beaver dams, logjams, and shallow rocky stretches.

Hazards & Portages

Lake Superior at the mouth: cold water, surf, and weather that changes fast. Upstream hazards are undocumented — assume strainers and beaver dams until proven otherwise. As always near the big lake, dress for immersion and check the marine forecast.

Access & Parking

Documented: a state boat ramp, day-use area, and campground at the Misery River near its mouth (about 46.9983, -88.98057), listed in the Ontonagon County Recreation Plan 2023–27. Verify current operating status and fees before your trip.

Map

The marker below is an approximate reference point at the documented mouth-area access — not a launch for the full river.