Lake with Marshy Shoreline

Lake St. Helen Vacation Rentals

Lake St. Helen

Why Rent On Lake St. Helen

Lake St. Helen, situated in the heart of Roscommon County, Michigan, is a sprawling 2,400-acre spring-fed lake that beckons with its serene and vibrant landscape. This lake, resembling three interconnected bodies of water, is a haven for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and family travelers alike. The shoreline, with only 3 miles of its 18-mile stretch developed, maintains a natural charm, dotted with cozy waterfront estates.

Here, you can engage in a variety of activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, with an abundance of species including bass, trout, and the renowned bluegill. The annual Bluegill Festival, a 59-year tradition, offers a lively experience with parades, carnivals, and fishing contests.

Nearby, Richfield Township Park and the Birch Point Golf Club provide additional opportunities for outdoor adventures. For those looking to explore further, the Houghton Lake area offers swimming, boating, and hiking trails. The lake’s shallow waters and controlled water levels by the gravity-type dam at the mouth of the South Branch of the Au Sable River ensure optimal conditions for recreational activities. Whether you’re seeking an action-packed vacation or a tranquil retreat, Lake St. Helen’s unique blend of natural beauty and community spirit makes it an ideal destination.

Best time to go
Visit Lake St. Helen in late summer, particularly late August, when the air is warm and the waters glimmer like polished sapphire. This serene season invites leisurely fishing and invigorating kayaking, all amid the gentle hum of nature, with fewer tourists and vibrant sunsets illuminating the horizon. Don’t miss the annual St. Helen’s Timberfest for a taste of local culture.
Water Quality
Lake St. Helen's water is typically jade in color and crystal-clear in clarity.
Surface area (mi)
6.03
Max depth (ft)
25.92
Elevation (ft)
1154.86
Shoreline length (mi)
15.97

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Jet Skiing
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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Lake St. Helen has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, it is not always safe to swim in Lake St. Helen. The lake has had contamination advisories due to high bacteria levels, particularly from storm water runoff, which can pose health risks to swimmers.

  • Lake St. Helen is a popular destination for outdoor activities and tourism because it offers various recreational opportunities such as fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. The lake is home to a diverse range of fish species, including bass, trout, and bluegill, and its annual Bluegill Festival attracts large crowds.

  • For Lake St. Helen in Michigan, the daily possession limit for Northern Pike is up to five fish, with only one allowed to be 24 inches or greater. This regulation is in place to encourage the harvest of small pike and reduce competition among them. There are no specific possession limits mentioned for other species in this context.

  • Yes, there is a public beach at Lake St. Helen. The beach is located at Cove Park, which offers a large beach area, green spaces, and other amenities like pavilions and a play area. The park also includes a boat launch site and a fishing pier.

  • Towns near Lake St. Helen that offer basic amenities include Roscommon, Prudenville, and Houghton Lake. These towns are within a short drive, with Roscommon being about 10 miles northwest and Prudenville about 11 miles southwest of St. Helen.