Gilstad Lake offers a concrete boat ramp and fishing pier for public water access, managed by the U. S. Forest Service.

This site provides convenient launching facilities for both motorized and non-motorized watercraft, with the fishing pier offering an accessible option for anglers.

As with all Minnesota public water accesses, the site is typically open 24 hours and requires watercraft to be cleaned and drained before and after use to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.