The Platte River, which flows through the Pere Marquette State Forest, is about 14 miles long and averages 2 – 3 feet deep. The river is a favorite for canoers, kayakers, and tubers. The upper Platte is fast moving with tight turns and underwater obstacles perfect for the more experienced canoer. The lower Platte's flow is more gentle, making a tubing or canoeing trip the perfect family activity for a hot summer day.

The mouth of the Platte empties in to Lake Michigan, located in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.  Platte Point Beach is the end destination of many of the canoers and tubers. The river is shallow and flows rapidly at this point. Riding the current into Lake Michigan is an exciting activity for beach goers. The park, which also hosts a picnic area, boat launch, and restroom facilities, is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the activity on the river with the view of Lake Michigan and the Sleeping Bear Dunes in the background.