HomeMichiganOakland County

Davison Lake

Oakland County, Michigan Inland Lake Connected Water
54.1 acres67 ft deep1 launchRec Passport required
Davison Lake Access Map 1 launch
Depth Map → Click markers for details
Boat Launches on Davison Lake
Davison Lake Boat Launch
Metamora Hadley State Recreation Area · Unimproved ramp, 1 lane, 6 trailer spots
Open Motorboat Kayak Rec Passport
View ramp details →
Connected Waterways

Davison Lake is a small, relatively self-contained lake in Oakland County. Specific inflow and outflow details are limited, but it sits within the broader watershed systems of northern Oakland County near the Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area.

Winter & Ice Safety

Davison Lake's small size means it likely freezes relatively early in winter, though the reported deep profile could mean uneven ice in some areas. Always check ice thickness carefully, especially toward the center where depth is greatest. Ice fishing for panfish is a reasonable bet here given the bluegill population.

Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are in Davison Lake?
Bluegill and largemouth bass are the most commonly reported catches. The lake is reportedly quite deep for its size, which tends to produce stunted fish — decent bluegill but smaller bass overall. Dock fishing and fishing near the center of the lake seem to be the go-to approaches.
Is Davison Lake a no-wake lake?
Yes, Davison Lake is a no-wake lake. No speedboats or jet skis — expect a quiet experience suited to kayaks, canoes, and small boats with electric motors.
Is there a boat launch on Davison Lake?
There's one public boat launch on Davison Lake. It's well-reviewed (4.7 stars on Google) and suitable for small craft given the no-wake restriction.
Is Davison Lake crowded?
No. Reviewers consistently describe it as quiet and uncrowded — a hidden gem tucked in the woods. It's the kind of lake where you might have the water to yourself on a weekday.
Are there campgrounds near Davison Lake?
Yes — the Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area is nearby and offers state-run camping. Hasler Lake Campground (private) and Clearwater Campground are also in the area.
Where is Davison Lake?
Davison Lake is in Oakland County, Michigan, near the Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area in the northern part of the county.
Can you swim in Davison Lake?
There's no designated swimming beach on Davison Lake itself. Stony Lake Park, which has a beach, is located nearby if swimming is the priority.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

Davison Lake is a small, quiet lake tucked into the woods of Oakland County — the kind of spot locals don't want you to know about. Despite its modest surface area, it's reportedly quite deep, which contributes to a stunted fishery common in small deep lakes where cold water limits growing-season productivity. Bluegill and bass are the main catches, mostly from the dock or near the middle of the lake. It's a no-wake lake, so expect canoes, kayaks, and electric motors — no jet skis, no speedboats, just quiet water.

There's a single public launch on the lake with strong reviews (4.7 stars). The Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area is nearby, offering additional outdoor recreation and camping. This isn't a destination lake for trophy fish or big weekends on the water — it's a peaceful escape that happens to be in Oakland County, which makes it unusually accessible for metro Detroit residents looking for a low-key spot to wet a line or paddle without the crowds.

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