HomeMichiganOtsego County

Lake Twentyseven

Otsego County, Michigan Inland Lake Connected Water
101.6 acres22 ft deep1 launchRec Passport required
Lake Twentyseven Access Map 1 launch
Depth Map → 🎣 Fishing Guide → Click markers for details
Boat Launches on Lake Twentyseven
Lake 27 Boat Launch
Otsego Lake State Park · Unimproved ramp, 1 lane, 2 trailer spots
Open Motorboat Kayak Rec Passport
View ramp details →
Connected Waterways

Lake Twentyseven sits in Otsego County within the broader watershed system of northern Lower Michigan. Specific inflow and outflow details are not well-documented. The lake is in the general vicinity of Otsego Lake, one of the area's larger water bodies.

Winter & Ice Safety

As a smaller lake, Twentyseven likely freezes relatively early and consistently in winter. No specific ice fishing reports are available — always check ice thickness yourself before venturing out.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the boat launch at Lake Twentyseven open?
It has been intermittently closed. The DNR padlocked the public access site due to high water and parking issues, restricting all swimming, boating, and dog access. Check with the Michigan DNR or Otsego County before heading out — closures may still be in effect.
Can you use a big boat on Lake Twentyseven?
Technically it's an all-sports lake, so motorized boats are allowed. However, the boat launch is very steep and better suited to small fishing boats. Larger boats may struggle with the grade, and the lake's small size means speed boats and fishing boats end up in close quarters.
Where is Lake Twentyseven?
In Otsego County, in the Gaylord area of northern Lower Michigan. Otsego Lake County Park, Wah Wah Soo County Park, and several campgrounds are nearby.
Are there campgrounds near Lake Twentyseven?
Several options are within a short drive: Otsego Lake County Park, Beaver Creek Resort, Lakes of the North Campground, and Lost Valley Retreat Center. Most of these serve the broader Gaylord-area lake region rather than Lake Twentyseven specifically.
Can you swim in Lake Twentyseven?
There's no designated public beach on the lake, and the public access site has been closed at times — including a ban on swimming. When access is open, swimming would be informal and at your own risk. Nearby Otsego Lake County Park and Wah Wah Soo County Park offer proper beach areas.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

Lake Twentyseven is a smaller all-sports lake in Otsego County, near Gaylord. Don't let the size fool you — reviewers report speed boats sharing the water, so it can feel crowded. The single public boat launch is notably steep, and locals recommend limiting it to small fishing boats only. Perch are present but tend to run small and will strip your bait quickly, so bring plenty. The lake is described as scenic, but public access has been inconsistent — the DNR has closed and padlocked the launch site at times due to high water levels and lack of parking. Check current access status before making the trip.

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