Deer Lake Access

Deer Lake Access leads to a very small, spring-fed lake at the head of the Otter Creek watershed. It is a low-key inland-water detour, not a dune overlook or Lake Michigan beach. Wetland borders the north and south shores; hardwoods line the east and west, with white cedar around the water.

The lake averages 12 feet deep and reaches 22 feet. Eleven fish species have been collected here, including northern pike, largemouth bass, bluegill and yellow perch; bluegill make up most of the fish in the lake. Ducks and ducklings, songbirds and the occasional fish breaking the surface are among the wildlife visitors may notice.

For a photo, include the fallen trunks and reeds at the water's edge with the tree-lined shore behind them. That foreground shows the lake's small, wooded setting better than a frame filled only with water.

From Trails End Road, take the left turn onto a narrow, rutted two-track, then walk a short distance to the lake. Parking layout, toilets and potable water are not established, so plan for a self-contained stop; no food service is listed at the access. A park pass is required for inland-lake use. Power-driven boats are prohibited from April 1 through October 31; outside that period, motors are limited to two horsepower. Clean, drain and dry boats and gear after use.