HomeMichiganCharlevoix County

Susan Lake

Charlevoix County, Michigan Inland Lake Connected Water
1 launchRec Passport required
Susan Lake Access Map 1 launch
Click markers for details
Beaches & Public Access 7
Michigan Beach Park
Directions →
Ferry Beach Park
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Depot Beach Park
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Lake Michigan Public Access
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Beach access
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North Point Nature Preserve
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Mt. McSauba Recreation Area
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Campgrounds 3
Hayes Township Park Camp Sea-Gull
4.8★ (14)
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Charlevoix Family Campground
4.7★ (27)
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Big Rock Site
5★ (1)
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Marinas 5
Charlevoix Municipal Boat Ramp ☎ +1 231-459-9723
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Northwest Marine Yacht Club ☎ +1 231-547-5552
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Boat Launches on Susan Lake
Susan Lake Boat Launch
Young State Park · Unimproved ramp, 1 lane, 2 trailer spots
Open Motorboat Kayak Rec Passport
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Connected Waterways

Susan Lake sits in the Lake Michigan watershed within Charlevoix County. The broader area is defined by the connection between Lake Charlevoix, Round Lake, and Lake Michigan — one of Michigan's most scenic waterway corridors — though Susan Lake itself is a more isolated water body.

Winter & Ice Safety

As a small inland lake in northern Lower Michigan, Susan Lake likely freezes reliably in winter. Always check local ice conditions before venturing out, as snow cover and mid-winter thaws can create inconsistencies even on smaller lakes.

Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Susan Lake in Michigan?
Susan Lake is in Charlevoix County in northwest Lower Michigan, close to the city of Charlevoix and within easy reach of Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan.
Is there a public boat launch on Susan Lake?
Yes, there's one public boat launch on Susan Lake. With a 4.2-star Google rating from 10 reviews, it's a functional access point but likely best suited for smaller boats and kayaks rather than large watercraft.
Are there campgrounds near Susan Lake?
Several campgrounds are nearby, including Hayes Township Park Camp Sea-Gull, Charlevoix Family Campground, and Charlevoix County Whiting Park. Most are oriented around the broader Charlevoix area rather than directly on Susan Lake.
Can you kayak on Susan Lake?
Yes — Susan Lake's small size and single launch make it a good fit for kayaking and canoeing. It's a quieter alternative to the larger, busier waters in the Charlevoix area.
What is there to do near Susan Lake?
The Charlevoix area is packed with recreation. Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan are nearby with full-service marinas, public beaches like Michigan Beach Park and Depot Beach Park, and the charming downtown Charlevoix waterfront. It's one of Michigan's top resort towns.
Can you swim in Susan Lake?
Swimming is possible, though there's no designated public beach on Susan Lake itself. For beach swimming, nearby options include Michigan Beach Park, Ferry Beach Park, and Depot Beach Park along Lake Michigan.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

Susan Lake is a small inland lake in Charlevoix County, tucked away from the bigger-name waters that dominate this part of northwest Lower Michigan. With just one public launch, it's a quieter option compared to the nearby chain of Lake Charlevoix, Round Lake, and Lake Michigan — all within a short drive. The lake sits in an area loaded with recreation infrastructure, with multiple campgrounds and marinas clustered around the Charlevoix waterfront just minutes away.

Don't expect the deep, cold water of Lake Charlevoix here — Susan Lake is a modest-sized warm-water lake better suited to small boats, kayaks, and a low-key day on the water. The surrounding Charlevoix area is one of Michigan's premier resort towns, so Susan Lake offers a back-door escape from the summer traffic on the big lakes.

Sources: Wikipedia, Google Reviews, DNR data, campground & beach reviews, ShorelineScout enrichment