HomeMichiganGladwin County

Lake Four

Gladwin County, Michigan Inland Lake Connected Water
38.5 acres40 ft deep1 launchRec Passport requiredIce fishing
Lake Four Access Map 1 launch
Depth Map → Click markers for details
Boat Launches on Lake Four
Lake Four Boat Launch
Clare Field Office · Unimproved ramp, 1 lane, 2 trailer spots
Open Motorboat Kayak Rec Passport
View ramp details →
Connected Waterways

Lake Four sits in the Gladwin County lake region of central-northern Lower Michigan. Specific inflows and outflows aren't well-documented, but the area drains into the broader Tittabawassee and Cedar River watersheds.

Winter & Ice Safety

Lake Four freezes reliably in Gladwin County winters and is specifically noted by locals as a great ice fishing destination. The lake's depth means ice thickness can vary — always check conditions, especially early and late season.

Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are in Lake Four?
Reports vary — some residents report great fishing while others describe it as tough. The lake's reportedly acidic water may limit the fish population compared to nearby lakes. Specific species aren't well-documented, but locals fish it year-round including through the ice. Wildlife like loons are commonly seen.
How deep is Lake Four?
Multiple reviewers describe Lake Four as a deep lake, though an exact maximum depth isn't officially published. The depth is notable enough that locals specifically mention it as a defining characteristic.
Is there a public boat launch on Lake Four?
Yes, there's one public boat launch on the lake. It has a 3.9-star Google rating from about 12 reviews. Expect a basic launch — this isn't a high-traffic lake.
Can you ice fish on Lake Four?
Yes — locals specifically call out Lake Four as a great ice fishing spot. Deep lakes like this can concentrate fish in winter, and the lake freezes reliably in Gladwin County's cold winters.
Where is Lake Four in Michigan?
Lake Four is in Gladwin County in central-northern Lower Michigan, near the Sugar Springs area. It's roughly 30 miles northwest of Midland.
Are there campgrounds near Lake Four?
Yes — Sugar Springs Chalet and Campgrounds is the closest option. There are also state forest campgrounds at Trout Lake and House Lake nearby, plus Meredith Campground a bit further out.
Is Lake Four good for swimming?
The lake has deep water and reportedly acidic conditions. There's no designated public beach on the lake itself, though Berkshire Beach is in the general area. Swimming is possible but most visitors come for fishing and quiet recreation.
Is Lake Four crowded?
No — this is consistently described as a quiet, peaceful lake. Multiple year-round residents emphasize the solitude and scenery. With only one launch and limited reviews, it doesn't draw heavy recreational traffic.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

Lake Four is a small, deep lake in Gladwin County that draws a mix of opinions — some residents swear by the fishing, others call it tough water. Reviews consistently mention the depth, and at least one local notes the water is acidic, which likely limits productivity compared to the shallower, more fertile lakes in the area. What you will find is a quiet, scenic setting with loons and abundant wildlife — the kind of lake where you go to get away from crowds, not to fill a livewell.

There's one public boat launch with a 3.9-star Google rating from a handful of reviewers. Ice fishing is reportedly solid here — the depth that makes summer fishing inconsistent can concentrate fish under the ice. The lake sits in the Sugar Springs area of Gladwin County, with a few campgrounds nearby including Sugar Springs Chalet and the state forest campgrounds at Trout Lake and House Lake. This is a year-round residential lake with a loyal following, but don't expect resort-town amenities.

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