Beaufort Lake sits in the Lake Michigamme watershed in Baraga County, just a couple miles west of Michigamme. Specific inflow and outflow details are limited, but the lake's proximity to the broader Michigamme drainage system connects it to the larger Upper Peninsula river network.
With a maximum depth around 30–34 feet, Beaufort Lake should freeze reliably in a typical Upper Peninsula winter. No specific ice fishing reports were found, but the walleye fishery likely draws some winter anglers. Always check ice thickness locally before heading out.
How big is Beaufort Lake?
Is there a boat launch on Beaufort Lake?
Is there camping at Beaufort Lake?
Can you swim in Beaufort Lake?
How do you get to Beaufort Lake?
Is Beaufort Lake crowded?
Can you kayak or canoe on Beaufort Lake?
Is the drinking water safe at Beaufort Lake campground?
Beaufort Lake is a small, quiet lake in Baraga County — tucked just a couple miles west of Lake Michigamme but drawing a fraction of the traffic. The lake has three small islands and varies from 3–4 foot shallows to a maximum depth around 30–34 feet depending on water level. Reviews consistently describe it as clean and clear, and multiple visitors report having the entire lake to themselves for days at a time. Walleye are mentioned by anglers, and the surrounding area supports plenty of wildlife including bald eagles and resident Canada geese.
The Beaufort Lake State Forest Campground sits on the north end with just seven rustic sites — all directly on the lakeshore. There's a hand pump well, vault toilets, and easy kayak/canoe access from each site. At $20/night it fills up on weekends despite (or because of) the bare-bones setup. The access road is rough washboard gravel, which keeps things quiet but isn't great for motorcycles or low-clearance vehicles. This is a paddle-and-fish lake, not a powerboat destination — if you want solitude close to US-41, Beaufort delivers where Michigamme can't.