Lakes of Michigan | Higgins Lake
Quick Facts
- Located in Roscommon County
- Natural freshwater lake
- 9,600 acres
- Shoreline: 21 miles
- Average Depth: 44 feet
- Maximum Depth: 135 feet
- Public Access Sites: 70+
Lake Activities
Beach | Boating (motor, sail, paddle) | Fishing | Ice Fishing | Snorkeling | Swimming | Water Skiing/Wakeboarding/Tubing
Local Attractions
Biking | Camping | Cross-Country Skiing | Dining | Golfing | Hiking | Museum | Shopping | Snowmobiling | Snowshoeing | State Parks
Fish
Bass | Perch | Pike | Trout
Just east of the city of Roscommon is Michigan’s tenth-largest inland lake, Higgins Lake. Its staggering 135-foot depth and fresh spring inflow create a beautiful, crystal-clear lake that’s sure to elicit wonderment. Higgins Lake consists of the north and south basins, with Detroit Point jutting into the west side of the lake and Flag Point into the east. The lake covers an impressive 9,600 acres, and its shoreline stretches more than 20 miles. Shallow, sandy shorelines that give way to steep drop-offs create a turquoise-to-indigo color gradation that’s absolutely stunning to see.
The lake has been through a few name changes over the centuries. It was originally named Majinabeesh, or “sparkling water,” by the Chippewa who inhabited the land. It was then called Forginson Lake for 13 years until it was renamed in 1852 to Higgins Lake, after the chief of the topographical department of the Michigan Geological Survey, Sylvester Higgins.
Both the north and south shores of the lake feature a state park, each offering camping, trail systems, swimming beaches, picnic areas, and boat launches. North Higgins Lake State Park, the newer and smaller of the two parks has nearly 450 wooded acres, and South Higgins Lake State Park boasts 1,000 acres Dogs are also welcome to enjoy both parks, but they must be leashed and cleaned up after.
The glassy waters attract water-sports enthusiasts and beach bums alike each year. Because of the lake’s clarity and underwater caches, snorkeling is very popular. Anglers are also drawn to the lake during all seasons for its bass, trout, pike, and perch varieties.
Boating, of course, is a warm-weather pastime on the lake. Throughout the summer, you’ll find all kinds of boats sprinkled along the lake’s surface. Motorized boats* can be seen racing across the horizon or leisurely pacing the waters, some with tubers or water-skiers in tow. Kayakers, canoers, and paddle-boarders will navigate the shoreline or venture out to the 30-acre Treasure Island located in the lake’s north basin.
There’s plenty to do off the water as well. The local trails are great for hiking and biking in warmer weather, or snowshoeing and cross-country skiing during the snowy months. Off-roading is also very popular; you’ll often see ATVs or snowmobiles crawling the ORV-designated trails throughout the year. Must-try ice cream shops, tasty restaurants, and unique shops can be found around the lake or on the main streets of nearby Roscommon. With several public and private golf courses nearby, golfing is another favorite local attraction.
With so much to offer, Higgins Lake is a fantastic destination for just about anyone. Whether you’re just visiting for a day, a weekend, or an extended vacation, make sure this beautiful lake is on your list!
* In order to keep Higgins Lake clean, the DNR has put measures in place to prevent the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species. To comply with regulations, boaters and anglers are required to clean their boats, trailers, and equipment; drain live wells, bilges, and all water; dry boats and equipment; and dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.