NIchols North Recreation Area

Nichols North Recreation Area provides a paved boat launch for access to Nichols Lake, a scenic inland lake located near Bitely in Newaygo County. The facility is situated within the Huron National Forest and serves as one of two public Forest Service boat ramps on the lake, making it a reliable access point for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboats. The North Country National Scenic Trail passes near the boat ramp, offering hiking opportunities for those combining water and land recreation.

Nichols Lake is a popular destination for fishing and boating, with marked swimming areas (though no lifeguards are present). The lake has no inlet or outlet streams, creating calm water conditions ideal for paddling. The nearby Nichols Lake South Campground offers reservable camping with additional amenities and a wood ramp alternative access point. From Baldwin, take M-37 south for 13.5 miles to 11 Mile Road, then head west approximately 4.5 miles to reach the recreation area. This site is family-friendly and hosts Michigan's Free Fishing Day events in early June.

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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