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Hicks Lake

Osceola County, Michigan Lake
158.9 acres33 ft deep1 launchRec Passport required
Hicks Lake Access Map 1 launch
Depth Map → Click markers for details
Boat Launches on Hicks Lake
Hicks Lake Boat Launch
Clare Field Office · Unimproved ramp, 1 lane, 3 trailer spots
Open Motorboat Kayak Rec Passport
View ramp details →
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Hicks Lake in Michigan?
Hicks Lake is in Osceola County, in the west-central part of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. It's in a rural area near other recreational lakes like Sunrise Lake.
Is there a public boat launch on Hicks Lake?
Yes, there's one public boat launch on Hicks Lake. It's a small, simple launch — reviewers describe it as a "little boat launch" suited to the lake's quiet character. It has a 4.9-star Google rating from 21 reviews.
Is Hicks Lake crowded?
It's still relatively quiet, but locals note it's getting busier on summer weekends. Weekdays and off-season visits will give you the most solitude.
Are there campgrounds near Hicks Lake?
Yes — River Country Campground, Sunrise Lake State Forest Campground, and Sunrise Lake Family Campground are all nearby. The state forest campground is a good budget option with a rustic, no-frills setup.
Can you rent a cabin or house on Hicks Lake?
Yes, there are Airbnb and vacation rentals on the lake. The shoreline has a mix of small cabins and houses, and reviewers mention staying at vacation rentals and loving the experience.
What is Hicks Lake known for?
Hicks Lake is known as a quiet, under-the-radar lake with a small-town cottage atmosphere. Locals call it a "best kept secret" in Michigan. It's not a big-name destination — that's the appeal.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

Hicks Lake is a small, quiet lake in Osceola County that locals consistently describe as a "best kept secret." The lake has a single boat launch with a near-perfect 4.9-star rating across 21 reviews — the kind of score you only see on lakes where regulars genuinely love the place. The shoreline is lined with small cabins and houses rather than big developments, giving it a low-key, old-school Michigan cottage feel.

Weekend summer traffic has been picking up, which is typical for smaller lakes that get discovered through Airbnb rentals and word of mouth. Nearby Sunrise Lake offers additional public access and a state forest campground, and River Country Campground is also close — so this corner of Osceola County has solid options if you're planning a multi-day trip. Sunsets on the lake reportedly don't disappoint.

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

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