The Leland River is a short river in the U.S. state of Michigan. Located in the unincorporated community of Leland, the river is long and connects Lake Leelanau with Lake Michigan, winding past historic Fishtown, a dam and two restaurants. The dam was built in 1854 and it raised the water level in the river and in Lake Leelanau as much as . As the dam prevents boat traffic, launches are provided on both sides. The river was formerly known as Carp River, a term that is still often used today. References Rivers of Leelanau County, Michigan Rivers of Michigan Tributaries of Lake Michigan