The William H. Barnum is a shipwreck located in the Straits of Mackinac. This freshwater site sits at depths ranging from 18 to 23 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. Access is by boat only, as the wreck lies approximately 8,851 metres from the nearest shore. Divers should be prepared for cold water conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between 1 and 15 degrees Celsius throughout the year; bottom temperatures often remain between 4 and 6 degrees Celsius even in August. Visibility is variable, ranging from 1 to 24 metres. Hazards include the overhead environment of the wreck, potential for entanglement, deep water, and low visibility.

The William Barnum is a freshwater shipwreck located in the Straits of Mackinac. Resting at depths between 15 and 23 metres, the site is accessible only by boat. Divers experience visibility ranging from 10 to 30 metres with mild currents. Due to cold water temperatures that can drop to near freezing, a drysuit is strongly recommended. The wreck structure presents potential entanglement risks and sharp debris, requiring careful buoyancy control and equipment management. This site is suited for intermediate divers who are prepared for the challenges of cold-water diving. Typical dive times are approximately 40 minutes.

The Cedarville is a steel bulk freighter resting on its side in the Straits of Mackinac. The wreck lies at depths between 12 and 35 metres, requiring intermediate to advanced skills. Access is by boat only, located 4800 metres from shore. Divers encounter mild currents and visibility ranging from 5 to 15 metres. The site presents hazards including cold water, deep sections, and an overhead environment within the wreck structure. Divers should manage entanglement risks and use appropriate thermal protection for water temperatures that fluctuate between 1 and 14 degrees Celsius. A typical dive lasts 40 minutes, and a redundant light source and surface marker buoy are recommended.

The Ebar Ward is a shipwreck located in the Straits of Mackinac, resting at depths between 33 and 45 metres. This site is suited for advanced technical divers due to the significant depth and the requirement for decompression procedures. Access is by boat only, with the wreck situated 6400 metres from shore. Divers encounter moderate currents and visibility ranging from 15 to 30 metres. Water temperatures are cold, typically hovering around 4°C at the bottom, necessitating the use of a drysuit. Hazards include boat traffic, nitrogen narcosis, and cold water conditions. Air fills are available for those planning their dives in this preserve.

The Straits of Mackinac feature a collection of shipwrecks preserved in cold freshwater at the junction of Lakes Huron and Michigan. These sites offer depths between 20 and 43 metres, with an average of 30 metres. Divers encounter overhead environments, moderate currents, and visibility ranging from 10 to 30 metres. Water temperatures remain cold, typically requiring dry suits. Access is exclusively by boat, and due to the technical nature of the wrecks, heavy boat traffic, and depth, intermediate to advanced wreck and deep diving qualifications are required. Guided tours through local dive shops are strongly advised to manage site-specific hazards and variable conditions.

The William Young is a shipwreck located in the Straits of Mackinac, resting at depths between 31 and 37 metres. This site is accessible only by boat and is situated 1609 metres from shore. Divers encounter moderate currents and visibility ranging from 15 to 31 metres. Water temperatures remain cold throughout the year, fluctuating between 1 and 14 degrees Celsius, making a drysuit necessary. Due to the depth, cold water, entanglement risks within the structure, and potential boat traffic, this site is suitable for advanced divers. Divers should plan for slack water to manage currents and monitor depth closely during the dive.

Petoskey State Park in the Straits of Mackinac offers shallow freshwater snorkeling along a mile-long beach. The site is known for its rocky topography and geological formations, providing opportunities to observe fossilised coral, known locally as Petoskey stones. Depths range from 1 to 5 metres, with an average of 3 metres, making it suitable for beginners. Entry is via the shore, and conditions feature mild currents with visibility typically between 5 and 15 metres. Water temperatures vary significantly throughout the year, ranging from 1 to 21 degrees Celsius. Facilities available at the park include parking, toilets, showers, changing rooms, a rinse station, equipment rental, and a cafe.

Rock Maze is a series of underwater limestone caves and breccia formations situated just offshore from Arch Rock. This freshwater site offers vertical relief and is suitable for beginners, with a snorkel rating of 4 out of 5. Access is available via both shore and boat entries. Conditions are generally mild, though divers and snorkellers should remain aware of boat traffic in the area. Water temperatures fluctuate significantly throughout the year, ranging from 1°C in winter months to 19°C during the peak of summer. Toilets are available at the site for visitor convenience.