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Access Site MI

Nichols Lake (South)

Nichols Lake

Source: michigan_department_of_natural_resources Updated 1 year ago

City: Woodland Park, MI
County: Newaygo County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 43.72051240, -85.90888765
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
Located on the south shore of Nichols Lake in Woodland Park, this U.S. Forest Service facility offers a paved boat launch ideal for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboats. The 160-acre lake provides excellent paddling opportunities with shore and pier fishing access via a short path along the waterfront. A wood ramp and stairs also lead directly to the lake from the campground, offering an alternative water entry point.

This site is part of the Nichols Lake South Campground, which features full amenities including flush toilets, showers, and drinking water—making it convenient for multi-day paddling trips. The lake has no inlet or outlet streams, creating calm, contained paddling conditions. A fishing pier and second boat ramp (on the north side) provide additional access points around the lake. From Baldwin, take M-37 south 13.5 miles to 11 Mile Road, then head west 4.5 miles to reach the campground entrance.
Federal Facility Information
Free Access Reservations Available

Overview
Located on the south side of Nichols Lake, the campground and surrounding area offer excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming, picnicking, hiking, camping, or just relaxing.Recreation
Fishing and boating are popular activities at Nichols Lake. There is a paved boat launch at the campground. This site is one of the locations on the National Forest's for Kids Fishing Day Events for...

Overview
Located on the south side of Nichols Lake, the campground and surrounding area offer excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming, picnicking, hiking, camping, or just relaxing.Recreation
Fishing and boating are popular activities at Nichols Lake. There is a paved boat launch at the campground. This site is one of the locations on the National Forest's for Kids Fishing Day Events for Michigan's Free Fishing Day in early June. Ice fishing is also popular in the winter. Swimming areas are marked with buoys, but there are no lifeguards. The North Country National Scenic Trail goes through the site near the boat ramp, providing good hiking opportunities.Facilities
Nichols Lake has 29 family sites on paved spurs. Drinking water, flush toilets, and showers are provided. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. A wood ramp and stairs lead down to the lake from the campground. A short path along the lake provides access for fishing.Natural Features
At 160 acres, Nichols Lake offers shore, pier, and boat fishing. Typical fish species available include bass, bluegill, pumpkinseed, black crappie, and northern pike. There is a swimming beach and accessible fishing pier available.

Those wishing to enjoy the day at Nichols Lake will find a day use area located on the north side of the lake.
Nearby Attractions
The North Country Trail covers 4,600 miles from Crown Point, NY, to Lake Sakakawea State Park, ND. The segment that includes Nichols Lake has beautiful sections for both the advanced and weekend hikers. The nearest towns are Woodland, Bitely, and Brohman, about two miles to the south.

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Nearby Campgrounds (1 within 10 miles)
NICHOLS LAKE SOUTH CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable