Nestled in Highland Township, Michigan, Duck Lake is a 253-acre all-sports lake that perfectly blends relaxation and recreation. Known for its clear water, friendly neighborhoods, and strong community pride, it’s a favorite for families and outdoor enthusiasts who want lake living with easy access to nearby cities like Milford, Hartland, and White Lake.

Duck Lake offers everything that defines Michigan lake life — boating, fishing, swimming, and sunsets that never get old.

Duck Lake at a Glance

Lake Lifestyle

Duck Lake is the heart of Highland Township’s community spirit — active, welcoming, and down-to-earth. While it’s a full all-sports lake, it tends to be quieter and more family-oriented than Cass or Pontiac. You’ll find pontoons cruising in the evenings, kids tubing in the afternoons, and neighbors chatting across docks.

Homes around Duck Lake vary from updated cottages to custom rebuilds with sandy frontage and private docks. It’s a great lake for year-round living, offering both relaxation and recreation just minutes from M-59.

Fishing & Recreation

Duck Lake is known for excellent fishing. Anglers regularly catch largemouth bass, pike, crappie, perch, and bluegill. The Michigan DNR’s fisheries division maintains the lake, and depth contour maps are available here:
👉 Michigan DNR Duck Lake Map (PDF)

You can also view clarity data and trophic readings in the MiCorps 2024 Duck Lake Report (PDF).

Nearby, residents enjoy Highland Recreation Area, one of Oakland County’s largest parks, featuring hiking, horseback trails, and camping. Learn more via the Michigan DNR Highland Recreation Area page.

Water Quality & Ecology

Duck Lake maintains healthy mesotrophic conditions, meaning it’s well-balanced in nutrients and supports excellent aquatic life.

The Michigan EGLE Water Resources Division oversees inland lake monitoring statewide, while the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner’s Office manages lake levels and drainage systems locally.

The MiCorps Cooperative Lakes Monitoring Program provides ongoing clarity readings, and Duck Lake’s visibility typically averages 10 feet, among the clearest in Highland Township.

Living on Duck Lake

Duck Lake’s charm lies in its balance — big enough for water sports, small enough to stay peaceful. The surrounding community is friendly, walkable, and involved, with annual lake cleanups and family events organized by residents.

Homes range from classic 1950s cottages to modern waterfronts with open views and wide docks. The area offers easy access to restaurants, grocery stores, and nearby lakes — perfect for commuters looking to live in a true lake town.

To see what’s currently available, explore active homes for sale on Duck Lake (HERE).

For property taxes, use the Michigan Property Tax Estimator — choose Oakland County and Huron Valley Schools.

Nearby Conveniences

• Commute: ~45 minutes to Detroit, ~20 minutes to Milford or White Lake
• Nearest Hospital: Trinity Health Livingston Hospital (~20 min)
• Groceries: Meijer, Aldi, and Kroger in White Lake and Highland
• Dining: Billy’s Tip’n Inn, The Root Restaurant, The Comeback Inn
• Recreation: Highland Recreation Area, Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, Dodge #4 State Park

Events & Local Vibe

Duck Lake’s community is known for its annual fireworks, pontoon parades, and neighborhood picnics. Many residents are members of the Duck Lake Property Owners Association, which helps maintain the water quality and community events.

In summer, the lake is lively with boating and barbecues; in winter, you’ll find ice fishing, skating, and snowmobiling across the frozen surface.

It’s an authentic, welcoming Michigan lake community with small-town heart.

Pros & Cons

Duck Lake Facts & Data