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Five Lakes

Clare County, Michigan Inland Lake Connected Water
115.3 acres60 ft deep1 launchRec Passport requiredIce fishing
Five Lakes Access Map 1 launch
Depth Map → Click markers for details
Boat Launches on Five Lakes
Five Lakes Boat Launch
Clare Field Office · Unimproved ramp, 1 lane, 7 trailer spots
Open Motorboat Kayak Rec Passport
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Connected Waterways

Five Lakes sits in Clare County's network of small inland lakes. Specific inflow and outflow details aren't well documented, but the area drains into the broader Muskegon or Tittabawassee River watersheds typical of central Lower Michigan.

Winter & Ice Safety

Five Lakes is shallow throughout, so it freezes early and reliably in winter. Ice fishing is a casual but popular activity here. Always check current ice thickness — shallow lakes can also develop pressure cracks and variable conditions after warm spells.

Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are in Five Lakes?
Bass are the most commonly reported catch — largemouth bass in particular. The shallow, weedy profile suggests good panfish habitat as well (bluegill, perch). Don't expect deep-water species; this is a warm, shallow lake.
Is there a public boat launch on Five Lakes?
Yes, there's one public launch. It's small but functional — reviewers say it's easy in and out and not too crowded. There's a restroom on-site. The launch carries a 4.5-star Google rating from 41 reviews.
Can you swim in Five Lakes?
Yes. There's a beach at Five Lakes and reviewers describe the water as clean with a comfortable temperature. The shallow depth means it warms up nicely in summer.
Can you ice fish on Five Lakes?
Yes. The lake is shallow enough to freeze reliably, and reviewers mention ice fishing outings. It's a casual scene — don't expect shanty cities, but it's a solid spot to drill some holes and enjoy a quiet day on the ice.
How deep is Five Lakes?
Reviews describe it as shallow in most places. Expect a warm, weedy lake rather than a deep, clear one — good for bass and panfish, less suited for cold-water species.
Are there campgrounds near Five Lakes?
Several options nearby including Herrick Recreation Area, Pettit Park, White Birch Lakes Rec Assoc Campground, and Boone Campsite at Camp Rotary. It's a good area for a camping-and-fishing weekend.
Where is Five Lakes in Michigan?
Five Lakes is in Clare County in central Lower Michigan. The community of Five Lakes, Michigan is nearby. It's rural countryside — expect farmland, woods, and a quiet pace.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

Five Lakes is a small, shallow lake in Clare County that punches above its weight for a quiet fishing spot. Reviews consistently mention clean water, good bass fishing, and a no-hassle launch experience — one reviewer even noted helping Amish neighbors pull a boat with a horse, which gives you a sense of the rural character here. The lake is shallow in most areas, making it warm and swimmable in summer but also meaning it freezes early and solid in winter. Ice fishing is popular, though don't expect a crowd.

The surrounding neighborhood is quiet and tight-knit — this isn't a resort lake or a destination lake, it's a locals' lake with a single public launch, a small beach, and good panfish and bass habitat in the shallows. Several campgrounds are within easy reach, including Herrick Recreation Area and Pettit Park, so it works well as a base-camp fishing lake for a weekend trip into Clare County.

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

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