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Fourmile Lake

Washtenaw County, Michigan Inland Lake Connected Water
250.4 acres18 ft deep1 launchFree launch available
Fourmile Lake Access Map 1 launch
Depth Map → Click markers for details
Boat Launches on Fourmile Lake
Four Mile Lake Boat Launch
Chelsea State Game Area · Unimproved ramp, 1 lane, 5 trailer spots
Open Motorboat Kayak Free
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Connected Waterways

Fourmile Lake features a network of shallow channels connecting different sections of the lake, giving it a more complex layout than its small size would suggest. The lake sits in the broader Pinckney Recreation Area watershed in Washtenaw County.

Winter & Ice Safety

With most of the lake under 5 feet deep, Fourmile Lake freezes early and solidly in winter. Ice fishing is possible, though the lake doesn't have a major ice fishing reputation. Always check conditions, especially near the deeper northwest pocket.

Frequently Asked Questions
How deep is Fourmile Lake?
Most of Fourmile Lake is very shallow — the southern portion is only 1–3 feet deep, the northern section runs 3–5 feet, and there's a deeper pocket in the northwest corner that reaches 8+ feet. It's a shallow lake overall.
Can you launch a motorboat on Fourmile Lake?
Technically yes, but it's not recommended. The launch is primitive with no dock, and the shallow channels and lake bottom make it very difficult for anything larger than a kayak or canoe. When water levels are high, some people manage with small fishing boats, but at normal levels even a 17-foot boat can't navigate the channels.
What fish are in Fourmile Lake?
Bass is what most people catch — largemouth bass specifically gets the most mentions. Some locals report catching good-sized fish despite the lake's small size and shallow depth. Reviews are mixed on overall fishing quality, so set expectations accordingly.
Is Fourmile Lake good for kayaking?
Yes — this is really what the lake is best for. The shallow water, quiet channels, and secluded feel make it a solid paddle spot. There's good bird watching along the shoreline, and the lake feels private and tucked away.
Is there public access to Fourmile Lake?
There is one public launch, though some reviews claim access has been restricted. The launch exists but it's very basic — no dock, just a spot to slide a kayak or canoe into the water. The drive in is somewhat hidden.
Are there campgrounds near Fourmile Lake?
Several, all within the Pinckney Recreation Area vicinity: Green Lake Rustic Campground, Crooked Lake Rustic Campground, Bruin Lake Modern Campground, and Blind Lake Campground. Mill Lake cabins are also nearby. It's a good area for combining a camping trip with a paddle on Fourmile.
Where is Fourmile Lake located?
Fourmile Lake is in Washtenaw County in southeastern Michigan, near the Pinckney Recreation Area. It's in a relatively rural pocket despite being in the broader Ann Arbor region.
Can you swim in Fourmile Lake?
There's no designated swimming beach. The very shallow depth in most areas and mucky bottom make it less than ideal for swimming. Nearby Pinckney Recreation Area and Silver Lake Recreation offer better swimming options.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

Fourmile Lake is a small, shallow lake in Washtenaw County that's best suited for paddle craft. Most of the southern portion is just 1–3 feet deep, the northern section runs 3–5 feet, and there's a deeper pocket in the northwest corner hitting 8+ feet — but that's about it. A network of channels connects different sections of the lake, giving it a private, tucked-away feel that's good for kayaking and bird watching. The single launch is bare-bones — no dock, and locals describe it as "an over-optimistic" boat launch that's really only practical for kayaks and canoes. Motorized boats can technically get in when water levels are high, but at normal levels the channels and shallows make it a risky proposition for anything over a small fishing boat.

Bass fishing gets the most mentions from regulars, and some report good-sized fish despite the limited water. The lake has an interesting local legend — some claim it's an old mining pit with equipment still sitting on the bottom, though that's unverified. The surrounding area is quiet and wooded, with nearby access to Pinckney Recreation Area and several rustic campgrounds at Green Lake, Crooked Lake, Bruin Lake, and Blind Lake. If you're looking for a secluded paddle on a lake that feels private, Fourmile fits — just don't bring anything bigger than a canoe.

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

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