A Peaceful Michigan Lake With a Wild Northern Character
Why Rent On Lake Margrethe
Lake Margrethe in Crawford County covers 1,920 acres and sits surrounded by the forests of the Grayling State Forest Area. Formerly called Portage Lake, this northern Michigan gem draws anglers for its rock bass, yellow perch, and northern pike, and draws families for its quiet, uncrowded character. A lakeside cabin or vacation rental here is the definition of a relaxing northern Michigan experience.
Fish, Paddle, and Explore the Au Sable and Manistee
The Manistee and Au Sable Rivers are both within reach, offering some of Michigan’s finest canoeing and kayaking in pristine, scenic water. Wildlife enthusiasts will find the surrounding state forest rewarding for bird watching and deer spotting. The Lake Margrethe State Forest Campground sits adjacent, and the combination of forest camping and comfortable lakeside rental accommodations makes this area flexible for groups with different preferences.
Hartwick Pines: Michigan’s Old-Growth Icon
Hartwick Pines State Park is one of the most distinctive natural destinations in the Great Lakes region, with a logging museum, a historic logging camp, and stands of original old-growth white pine that stop visitors in their tracks. It is a short drive from Lake Margrethe and genuinely worth a half-day.
A Rental That Feels Like the North Woods
Cabins and vacation homes near Lake Margrethe offer cozy, comfortable accommodations with lake views, fire pits, full kitchens, and the kind of unplugged, outdoors-focused atmosphere that northern Michigan does better than almost anywhere. Pet-friendly options are available. Whether you stay for a long weekend or a full week, this lake has a rhythm that slows you down in the best way.
- Surface area (mi)
- 4.85
- Max depth (ft)
- 64.99
- Elevation (ft)
- 1135.17
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 9.57
Popular activities
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
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Marinas on Lake Margrethe
Nearby lakes
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Margrethe has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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No, it is not safe to swim in Lake Margrethe. The lake has high levels of PFAS contamination, with surface water tests showing signs of these harmful chemicals, making it unsafe for swimming and other water activities.
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Lake Margrethe is a popular destination because of its excellent fishing opportunities. The lake is home to various fish species including rock bass, yellow perch, and walleye. It also offers a state forest campground and is a favorite recreation spot for soldiers from nearby Camp Grayling.
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For fish caught in Lake Margrethe, the safe eating guidelines vary by fish type and size. For northern pike, you can eat 2 servings per month if they are under 30 inches, but only 1 serving per month if they are over 30 inches due to mercury levels. These guidelines are set to protect everyone, including children and pregnant women.
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Yes, there is a public beach at Lake Margrethe. It is located at the public campground off McIntyre’s Landing Road, M-72 West. This beach is part of the Lake Margrethe State Forest Campground.
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Towns near Lake Margrethe include Cadillac, Traverse City, and Grayling. These towns are located in Northern Michigan, with Grayling being the closest, just a few miles away from the lake.
