Discovering Michigan’s Lakes with Public Access

Michigan holds more than 11,000 inland lakes scattered across its beautiful landscape, making it a paradise for anyone who loves water activities and nature.

Many of these lakes offer public access, which means you can visit them without owning property nearby or paying expensive fees to private clubs.

Whether you want to fish, swim, kayak, or simply relax on the shore with a good book, these public access lakes welcome everyone to enjoy their waters.

Exploring Michigan’s lakes with public access opens up endless possibilities for family adventures, peaceful getaways, and unforgettable memories under the summer sun.

From the northern wilderness to the southern farmlands, each lake has its own character and charm waiting for you to discover.

Packing your fishing rod, beach towel, or picnic basket becomes even more exciting when you know exactly where to go for the best lakeside experiences.

This guide will take you through seven amazing Michigan lakes that offer public access, so you can start planning your next outdoor adventure today.

1. Higgins Lake

Crystal clear water stretches before you at Higgins Lake, one of the most beautiful and cleanest lakes in the entire state of Michigan.

Located in Roscommon County, this stunning lake covers about 9,900 acres and reaches depths of up to 135 feet in some areas.

The water clarity here is legendary, often allowing you to see down 30 feet or more on a calm day.

Two state parks provide excellent public access to Higgins Lake’s pristine waters.

North Higgins Lake State Park sits at 11747 North Higgins Lake Drive in Roscommon, offering a sandy swimming beach, boat launch, and camping facilities.

South Higgins Lake State Park, located at 106 State Park Drive in Roscommon, features similar amenities with its own beautiful beach and picnic areas.

Families flock here during summer months because the shallow areas near shore warm up nicely for young swimmers.

The sandy bottom feels soft under your feet, and the gradual depth makes it safe for children to wade and play.

Boaters love the spacious waters for waterskiing, tubing, and sailing, while anglers cast lines hoping to catch perch, pike, and bass.

The surrounding area showcases northern Michigan’s natural beauty with towering pine trees and rolling hills.

Sunsets over Higgins Lake paint the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks that reflect off the mirror-like surface.

Local ice cream shops and restaurants in nearby Roscommon provide perfect stops after a long day at the beach.

Winter transforms Higgins Lake into a wonderland for ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.

The public access points remain available year-round, though you’ll want to check ice conditions before venturing out.

Whether you visit in July or January, Higgins Lake delivers natural beauty that stays with you long after you leave.

2. Torch Lake

Imagine water so blue it rivals the Caribbean, and you’ll understand why Torch Lake attracts visitors from across the country.

Stretching 19 miles through Antrim County in northwest Michigan, this glacial lake dazzles with its trademark turquoise color caused by light reflecting off limestone deposits on the lake bottom.

At 18,770 acres, Torch Lake ranks as Michigan’s second-largest inland lake and offers plenty of room for everyone.

Public access comes through several locations, with the most popular being the Torch Lake Township Day Park at 9180 Cairn Highway in Alden.

This park features a sandy beach, playground equipment, and picnic tables perfect for family gatherings.

A public boat launch on the south end at Barnes Park provides another entry point for those bringing watercraft.

The famous sandbar near the center of the lake becomes a social gathering spot on summer weekends.

Boaters anchor here to swim, socialize, and soak up the sun in waist-deep water far from shore.

Kayakers and paddleboarders enjoy exploring the shoreline, discovering hidden coves and quiet spots away from the crowds.

Fishing enthusiasts target lake trout, rock bass, and smallmouth bass in the deeper waters.

The lake’s clarity makes it popular with snorkelers and scuba divers who explore the underwater landscape.

Nearby Alden offers restaurants, shops, and a charming small-town atmosphere that complements your lake visit.

Fall brings spectacular color to the surrounding hardwood forests, creating picture-perfect reflections on the calm water.

Local cherry orchards and wineries provide additional attractions for visitors exploring the region.

Torch Lake’s combination of stunning beauty and public accessibility makes it a must-visit destination on any Michigan lake adventure.

3. Silver Lake

Adventure takes on a whole new meaning at Silver Lake, where towering sand dunes meet sparkling water in a unique combination found nowhere else in Michigan.

Situated in Oceana County along Lake Michigan’s eastern shore, this 800-acre lake sits adjacent to Silver Lake State Park, which features Michigan’s only off-road vehicle dune area.

The dramatic landscape creates an almost desert-like atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the cool, refreshing water.

Silver Lake State Park at 9679 West State Park Road in Mears provides the main public access point.

A designated swimming area offers safe waters for families, while the sandy beach stretches along the shore.

The park charges a small vehicle entry fee, but the access to both the lake and dunes makes it worthwhile.

What sets Silver Lake apart is the opportunity to climb massive sand dunes that rise several hundred feet above the water.

Hiking to the top requires effort, but the panoramic views reward you with sights of both Silver Lake and Lake Michigan in the distance.

Children delight in rolling down the sandy slopes, though parents should bring plenty of water and sunscreen for this exposed environment.

The lake itself offers excellent swimming with gradually deepening water that stays relatively warm during summer months.

Boating and fishing are popular activities, with anglers seeking bluegill, perch, and bass.

Kayaking around the lake provides a different perspective of the surrounding dunes and natural beauty.

Nearby Mac Woods Dune Rides at 629 North 18th Avenue in Mears offers guided tours through the dunes in specially designed vehicles.

Campgrounds in the area provide convenient overnight options for extended visits.

Silver Lake combines water recreation with unique geological features that create memories lasting far beyond your vacation.

4. Houghton Lake

Sprawling across 20,044 acres of Roscommon County, Houghton Lake claims the title of Michigan’s largest inland lake by surface area.

The relatively shallow depth, averaging just 12 feet with a maximum of 21 feet, means the water warms quickly in spring and stays comfortable for swimming throughout the summer.

This accessibility and size make it a favorite destination for families seeking a traditional Michigan lake vacation.

Multiple public access sites ring the lake, with Houghton Lake Flats at 200 Fisherman Drive offering a popular boat launch and beach area.

The Roscommon Township Park provides additional access with picnic facilities and swimming areas.

Numerous roadside access points allow shore fishing and small boat launching around the lake’s perimeter.

Anglers consider Houghton Lake a fishing paradise, particularly known for walleye, perch, and northern pike.

Ice fishing becomes a major winter activity with hundreds of shanties dotting the frozen surface creating temporary neighborhoods.

The annual Tip-Up-Town USA festival in January celebrates this winter tradition with activities, tournaments, and community gatherings.

Boating opportunities seem endless on such a vast expanse of water.

Pontoon boats cruise leisurely while jet skis zip across the waves and sailboats catch the breeze.

The shallow depth makes it relatively safe for water sports, though boat traffic can get heavy on summer weekends.

The surrounding communities of Houghton Lake Heights and Prudenville offer restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.

Cozy diners serve up classic Michigan fare, while ice cream stands provide sweet treats after beach days.

Golf courses, hiking trails, and state forest land nearby add variety to your visit beyond the water activities.

Houghton Lake’s combination of size, accessibility, and year-round activities makes it a cornerstone of Michigan’s inland lake culture.

5. Portage Lake

Connected waterways create endless exploration possibilities at Portage Lake, the centerpiece of a chain of lakes in Jackson County.

This 465-acre lake links to six other lakes through natural channels and man-made canals, allowing boaters to travel between different bodies of water without trailering.

The unique geography creates a water trail system that delights kayakers, canoeists, and pontoon boat enthusiasts looking for variety.

Portage Lake County Park at 7987 Portage Lake Road in Pinckney serves as the primary public access point.

The park features a sandy swimming beach, playground, picnic pavilions, and a boat launch that sees steady use throughout the season.

Lifeguards staff the beach during summer months, providing extra safety for families with young children.

Fishing opportunities abound with bass, bluegill, and pike hiding among the weed beds and drop-offs.

Local anglers know the productive spots, but newcomers can find success by working the shoreline structure and deeper channels.

The connected lake system means fish populations remain healthy and diverse throughout the chain.

Paddling through the connecting waterways feels like a treasure hunt as you discover new lakes and hidden coves.

Wildlife viewing improves in these quieter channels where herons, turtles, and waterfowl go about their daily routines.

The journey between lakes takes you through narrow passages lined with lily pads and overhanging trees.

Nearby Pinckney State Recreation Area offers hiking trails, camping, and additional lake access points.

The town of Pinckney provides dining options and supplies for your lake adventures.

Winter activities include ice fishing and cross-country skiing on trails that wind through the surrounding forests.

Portage Lake’s connected system offers something special for those who enjoy exploring beyond a single lake’s boundaries.

6. Glen Lake

Nestled in the shadow of the famous Sleeping Bear Dunes, Glen Lake actually consists of two connected bodies of water known as Big Glen and Little Glen.

Big Glen Lake covers about 4,940 acres with depths reaching 130 feet, while Little Glen Lake spans roughly 1,390 acres.

The crystal-clear water displays brilliant shades of blue and green that photograph beautifully against the backdrop of towering dunes and hardwood forests.

Glen Lake Beach, managed by the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore at 7747 South Dunns Farm Road in Maple City, provides excellent public access.

The sandy beach offers swimming, picnicking, and stunning views across the water toward the dunes.

A boat launch at M-109 and Little Glen Lake allows watercraft access to the connected lake system.

The water clarity makes Glen Lake popular with snorkelers and scuba divers exploring the underwater landscape.

Paddleboarders and kayakers enjoy the calm morning waters before afternoon breezes ripple the surface.

Sailing enthusiasts appreciate the steady winds that funnel through the valley, creating ideal conditions for their sport.

Fishing brings anglers seeking lake trout, smallmouth bass, and cisco in the deeper waters.

The lakes maintain excellent water quality thanks to careful stewardship by local conservation groups and residents.

Surrounding cherry orchards and vineyards add to the region’s charm and provide delicious local products to enjoy.

The nearby village of Glen Arbor offers art galleries, restaurants, and shops within walking distance of the lake.

Art’s Tavern at 6487 Western Avenue in Glen Arbor serves up local favorites and has been a community gathering spot for decades.

Hiking trails throughout Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore provide spectacular overlooks of Glen Lake from high atop the dunes.

This combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities makes Glen Lake a jewel of northern Michigan.

7. Burt Lake

Spanning 17,120 acres in Cheboygan County, Burt Lake ranks among Michigan’s largest and most beautiful inland lakes.

The lake stretches about seven miles long and averages depths around 73 feet, creating excellent habitat for coldwater fish species.

Its location in northern Michigan provides a more remote and peaceful atmosphere compared to lakes closer to major population centers.

Burt Lake State Park at 6635 State Park Drive in Indian River offers the primary public access with a campground, beach, and boat launch.

The park’s sandy swimming area stays busy during summer, while the campground fills with families enjoying extended stays.

Additional public access sites exist around the lake, including launches in the village of Indian River.

Known as a premier fishing destination, Burt Lake produces impressive catches of walleye, northern pike, perch, and lake sturgeon.

Tournament anglers travel from across the region to compete in fishing events held on these productive waters.

Ice fishing shanties cover sections of the lake each winter as hardy anglers pursue perch and walleye through the ice.

The scenic Inland Waterway connects Burt Lake to several other lakes and rivers, creating a 38-mile water trail system.

Boaters can navigate from Burt Lake through Mullett Lake and eventually to Lake Huron without leaving their vessel.

This unique feature attracts cruising boaters who enjoy multi-day adventures exploring connected waterways.

Indian River provides services including restaurants, gas stations, and supply stores convenient to lake visitors.

Nearby attractions include Cross in the Woods, a famous outdoor shrine at 7078 M-68 in Indian River that welcomes visitors year-round.

Fall colors surrounding Burt Lake create spectacular scenery as hardwoods transform into brilliant reds and golds.

Whether you seek fishing adventures, water sports, or peaceful natural beauty, Burt Lake delivers an authentic northern Michigan experience.