Portage Lake in Kalamazoo County, Michigan, offers paddlers a scenic experience within the three-lake chain that includes Blue Lake and Long Lake in Charleston Township. Located southeast of Galesburg along MN Avenue between 40th and 44th Streets, this connected system provides varied paddling opportunities best enjoyed in spring when water levels are higher and aquatic vegetation is minimal.

The only public boat landing for the three-lake chain is at Coldbrook County Park on the south end of Blue Lake. From this access point, paddlers can explore Blue Lake before navigating around a large cattail island to reach Portage Lake via channels at either the north or south end of the island.

The lake features a scenic island hosting the park's rustic campground, accessible by a vehicle causeway on the south side. Portage Lake's shoreline is dominated by Coldbrook Park property, with the day-use area on the south end and the modern campground on the island. A long, wide peninsula on the north side separates Portage Lake from Long Lake. The western portion of the lake beyond the island is not navigable.

Summer and fall paddling can be challenging due to excessive growth of lily pads, reeds, cattails, and other aquatic vegetation that can make large areas difficult or impossible to access. During late April through early June, paddlers can navigate freely throughout the system. Most of the shoreline remains undeveloped beyond the park facilities, providing natural coastline to explore.

The lake is the source of the Portage River, which flows from a small unnamed lake accessible via a channel and footbridge west of the Portage Lake day-use area.

Wildlife viewing opportunities include waterfowl throughout the marshier areas.

The park offers camping, picnic areas, restrooms, and a disc golf course, making it possible to combine paddling with a full day of outdoor activities.