Stager Lake

Stager Lake offers a public boat ramp access point near Crystal Falls in Michigan's Iron County. This location provides convenient launch access for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboaters looking to explore the area's inland waters. The ramp is non-reservable, making it available on a first-come, first-served basis for day use.

The ramp's proximity to the Whisker Lake Wilderness—a 7,500-acre designated wilderness area located just across the Michigan-Wisconsin border—makes it an excellent jumping-off point for paddlers seeking remote, scenic paddling experiences. This region features the characteristic northern Michigan landscape of forested shorelines and pristine water bodies. Paddlers should come prepared for wilderness conditions and check current water levels and local regulations before launching. For detailed information on facility amenities, parking, and any applicable fees, contact the Michigan DNR or local Crystal Falls area resources.

Whisker Lake was designated as a wilderness on October 2, 1978. This 7,500 acre tract is located 11 miles west of Florence, Wis., on the Michigan-Wisconsin border in Florence County. The area got its name from the large pines near the shoreline of Whisker Lake. Old timers called these pines "chin whiskers". These "chin whiskers" somehow escaped being burned by wildfires that ravaged the area...

Whisker Lake was designated as a wilderness on October 2, 1978. This 7,500 acre tract is located 11 miles west of Florence, Wis., on the Michigan-Wisconsin border in Florence County. The area got its name from the large pines near the shoreline of Whisker Lake. Old timers called these pines "chin whiskers". These "chin whiskers" somehow escaped being burned by wildfires that ravaged the area after it was railroad-logged in the early 1900's. The terrain within the Whisker Lake area ranges from rolling upland to beaver flooded wetlands. Trout fishing is available at Riley Lake, Edith Lake, Wakefield Creek and the Brule River. Berry picking, hunting, cross-country skiing and wildlife viewing are just some of the activities you can enjoy during your visit.

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