Best Beaches at Higgins Lake Michigan: A Complete Guide
Higgins Lake is one of Michigan’s most treasured inland lakes, and its beaches are a big reason why. With crystal-clear water so pure you can see the sandy bottom from 20 feet away, Higgins Lake beaches rival anything you’d find on the coasts. Whether you’re a local looking for a new swimming spot or a visitor planning your first trip to northern Michigan, this guide covers the best beaches Higgins Lake has to offer.
Why Higgins Lake Beaches Are Special
Higgins Lake has earned a reputation as one of the clearest lakes in the world. The water’s remarkable clarity comes from the lake’s natural spring-fed sources and limited agricultural runoff. On a calm summer day, the blue-green water looks more Caribbean than Michigan — and the sandy, gradual shoreline makes it ideal for families with young children.
North Higgins Lake State Park Beach
North Higgins Lake State Park is home to one of the most popular beaches on the lake. Located off of N. Higgins Lake Drive in Roscommon County, the park offers a wide sandy beach with designated swim areas, picnic tables, grills, and a bathhouse with changing facilities. Parking is ample but fills fast on summer weekends — arrive before 10 AM to claim a good spot.
The swim area is roped off and monitored during peak season. The bottom is soft sand and the water stays shallow for a good stretch, making it a favorite for families. Paddleboard and kayak rentals are sometimes available near the park.
South Higgins Lake State Park Beach
On the southern end of the lake, South Higgins Lake State Park offers a similarly beautiful beach experience with a slightly less crowded atmosphere. The beach here is backed by tall pines and rolling dunes, giving it a more secluded feel. Facilities include restrooms, a picnic area, and a boat launch.The campground at South Higgins Lake is one of the most popular in the state — if you’re planning to stay overnight, book months in advance. Campers get easy morning access to the beach before the day visitors arrive.
Private and Cottage Access Beaches
Much of Higgins Lake’s shoreline is lined with private cottages and seasonal rentals. If you’re staying at a lakefront property — like Winter-Chard Lake Forest Chalet, a fully equipped rental cabin near Higgins Lake — you’ll have semi-private beach access with far fewer crowds than the state park beaches.
Private access is one of the biggest perks of renting a lakefront or near-lake cottage. You can swim, kayak, or paddleboard on your own schedule without fighting for parking or towel space.
Best Time to Visit Higgins Lake Beaches
The swimming season runs roughly from late June through Labor Day weekend. July and August are peak months when water temperatures reach the mid-70s. Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends. If you’re visiting in June or September, you’ll find the beaches nearly empty — and the water is still refreshing, just cooler.
Fall visits to Higgins Lake are underrated. The beaches are quiet, the surrounding forest turns brilliant colors, and the clarity of the water is even more striking without summer algae. It’s a great season for photographers and hikers.
What to Bring
Sunscreen (the water reflects UV rays intensely)
Water shoes (some areas have rocky patches near shore)
A cooler — no food vendors inside the state parks
A Michigan DNR Recreation Passport for state park entry (required and worth it)
Kayak or paddleboard if you have one — the calm water is perfect for it
A quick-dry microfiber beach towel — packs small and dries fast
Snorkeling gear — the water clarity makes it worth bringing
Getting There
Higgins Lake is located in Roscommon County in northern Michigan, about 2.5 hours from Detroit and 1.5 hours from Grand Rapids. Take I-75 North to exit 239 and follow the signs toward Roscommon and Higgins Lake. GPS directions to North Higgins Lake State Park or South Higgins Lake State Park will get you directly to the beach access areas.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t visited Higgins Lake, put it on your Michigan bucket list. The beaches here are genuinely world-class for a freshwater destination — clean, scenic, and far less commercial than the Great Lakes shoreline towns. Whether you’re spending a day at the state park or a full week in a lakefront rental, Higgins Lake beaches will not disappoint.