Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I bring on the water?
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Some classic items to bring for a day on the lake would be: sunscreen, bug spray, extra towels, water, snacks, a map, a waterproof box to hold keys and phone and a waterproof speaker.
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- Are reservations needed?
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Reservations are greatly encouraged. We tend to sell out often and only the reservations are guaranteed a spot. All reservations must be paid for at time they are placed. We take payments over the phone via Square. This includes Discover, American Express, Visa and Mastercard. We can also accept PayPal payments over the phone. If you do not have a reservation, it is best to call ahead and check availability before driving out to Bruin Lake.
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- Can I bring my own equipment?
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Yes, Bruin Lake Campground has a public boat launch that we operate out of. It is open to bring your own equipment and launch as you please. We do not transfer equipment so please arrange your trip accordingly.
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- What do you provide for our trip?
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We provide the canoes, kayaks, lifejackets, maps and a waterproof box.
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- What do I do if I tip my canoe or kayak?
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If you end up tipping your boat, do not panic. Stay calm and try to swim your boat closest to shore. You should then be able to dump out any excess water and climb back in. The Hi-land Chain of Lakes is generally very calm and easy to maneuver. However, your safety comes first so please do not jeopardize it if you are unable to retrieve your watercraft rental or gear.
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- Are there picnic areas or grills nearby?
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Yes, indeed! Bruin Lake Campground has a public beach that allows picnics and gatherings. If you are camping then you would have a firepit to cook food at your campsite. At Halfmoon Lake (1.5 hour boat trip from Bruin), there are grills, picnic tables and a great beach.
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- Are there bathrooms or changing rooms?
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Yes, Bruin Lake Campground has bathrooms with showers and changing rooms available. Halfmoon Lake has porta-potties for use.
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- How long are your trips?
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Our most popular trip starts and ends and Bruin Lake. This gives you the freedom to explore all seven of the lakes at your own pace. If you plan on paddling to Hell and back, this would take about 8 hours. Trips that are reserved ahead can start at Bruin Lake and end at the dam in Hell, which is about 4 hours. We provide you a map so that you can modify your trip as you please.
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- Do I have to pay for parking?
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We are located within the Pinckney Recreation Areas- Michigan State Park. In order to be in a Michigan State Park, you must possess a recreation pass. Many already have the recreation passes on their license plates if they were purchased with their renewal. For Michigan residents that do not have a recreation pass, it is $17 and for non-residents of MI, it is $11.
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- Do you have group rates?
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Yes, please refer to our rates page to learn more about our pricing.
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- Do you allow pets?
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Yes, we do allow pets on our watercraft rentals. Please make sure to clean up after your pets accordingly and have the proper life jackets for their weight class.
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- What is your refund policy?
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We understand that weather plays a major role in all lake activities. If the weather hinders the ability to keep your reservation then we can reschedule it. If you have to reschedule for any other reason, we can accommodate this as well. Due to the nature of this business, we are unable to process refunds for reservations. However, we maintain a "limbo list" for customers who have already paid and have not decided on a date and time yet. Thank you so much for understanding and have fun paddling!
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