HomeMichiganCrawford County

Section One Lake

Crawford County, Michigan Inland Lake Connected Water
1 launchRec Passport requiredIce fishing
Section One Lake Access Map 1 launch
Depth Map → Click markers for details
Boat Launches on Section One Lake
Section One Lake Boat Launch
Otsego Lake State Park · Unimproved ramp, 1 lane, 1 trailer spots
Open Motorboat Kayak Rec Passport
View ramp details →
Connected Waterways

Section One Lake sits in Crawford County's state forest landscape near the Au Sable River watershed, one of Michigan's most celebrated trout river systems. Specific inflows and outflows are not well-documented, but the lake is in the same general drainage area as the extensive Au Sable system.

Winter & Ice Safety

Section One Lake is a small, likely shallow inland lake in Crawford County — it should freeze reliably in a typical northern Michigan winter. Ice fishing is possible, though the lake is primarily known for its bass fishery. Always check current ice conditions before heading out.

Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are in Section One Lake?
Section One Lake is known primarily for bass — reviewers specifically call it out as a bass lake. The no-wake restriction and relatively low fishing pressure make it a good spot for targeting largemouth bass from a canoe, kayak, or small electric-motor boat.
Is Section One Lake a no-wake lake?
Yes, Section One Lake is a no-wake lake. No gas-powered high-speed boating is allowed, which keeps the water quiet and makes it ideal for kayaks, canoes, and small boats with electric motors.
Is there a boat launch on Section One Lake?
There is one public boat launch on the lake. It carries a 4.9-star Google rating and is suitable for small boats, canoes, and kayaks. Given the no-wake restriction, you won't need a large ramp.
Where is Section One Lake?
Section One Lake is in Crawford County in northern Lower Michigan, near Grayling. It's in state forest country, with several state forest campgrounds and Otsego Lake State Park nearby.
Can you camp near Section One Lake?
Yes. Nearby options include Lake Marjory State Forest Campground, Jones Lake State Forest Campground, Otsego Lake State Park, and Hankerd's Horseshoe Lake Campground. The area is loaded with public land and rustic camping opportunities.
Why is half of Section One Lake closed off?
Longtime visitors have noted that roughly half the lake has been restricted or closed off. The specific reason isn't publicly detailed in reviews, but it's likely a DNR fish or wildlife management measure. It's a frustration for regulars who remember full access.
Can you swim in Section One Lake?
There's no designated public beach on Section One Lake itself. The nearest public beach is at Otsego Lake State Park. Swimming from the shoreline is possible but there are no lifeguards or facilities.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

Section One Lake is a small, quiet no-wake lake in Crawford County — the kind of place that rewards patience over horsepower. Reviewers consistently mention excellent bass fishing, and the no-wake restriction keeps the water calm and the pressure low. The lake sits in the heart of northern Michigan's state forest land near Grayling, surrounded by pine and hardwood forest rather than cottage development.

There's one launch on the lake with a near-perfect 4.9 Google rating from regulars, some of whom have been coming since the 1970s. Note that roughly half the lake has been closed off — reviews suggest this is a sore point for longtime visitors, though the restriction likely serves as a fish or wildlife management measure. Nearby options include Otsego Lake State Park and several state forest campgrounds, making this a solid add-on destination for a Crawford County camping trip.

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