Waterford Township – Oakland County
Scott Lake is a mid-sized all-sports lake located in Waterford Township, offering a friendly lake community, good fishing, convenient access to M-59, and an active boating environment. While not as widely known as Cass or Maceday, Scott Lake is considered a hidden gem among locals thanks to its strong real estate value, neighborhood feel, and enjoyable water recreation.
Whether you’re comparing lake options in Waterford or looking for a practical, approachable all-sports lake with solid year-round appeal, Scott Lake is one worth understanding.
Scott Lake at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Waterford Township – Oakland County, Michigan |
| Size | ~77.5 acres |
| Maximum Depth | ~35 feet |
| Lake Type | All-sports |
| Public Access | None (Private) |
| Connected Lakes | None |
| Watershed | Clinton River Watershed |
| Bottom & Water Clarity | Mostly sandy bottom; clarity varies seasonally |
| Nearby Communities | Waterford, Pontiac, White Lake, Clarkston |
Lake Lifestyle
Scott Lake offers a fun, relaxed lake lifestyle with a balance of boating activity and quiet pockets for paddling and fishing. It’s a popular choice for residents who want all-sports capability without the congestion found on larger lakes.
Popular activities include:
- Wakeboarding, tubing & skiing
- Paddleboarding & kayaking
- Swimming in shallow sandy areas
- Bass and pike fishing
- Sunset pontoon rides
- Neighborhood lake events in summer
Because the lake has public access, activity levels increase on weekends — but weekdays and evenings offer calmer, more peaceful water.
Real Estate Around Scott Lake
Scott Lake’s real estate landscape includes:
- Mid-century cottages converted into year-round homes
- Updated ranches and colonials
- Some larger rebuilds and modern lakefront properties
- Off-water homes with deeded access
- Canal-front lots and quiet shoreline pockets
What attracts buyers here:
- Approachable price range compared to larger Oakland County lakes
- Convenient access to M-59 and major amenities
- Good boating conditions
- Strong water depth for a lake its size
- A comfortable, community-driven neighborhood feel
→ Browse current homes for sale on or near Scott Lake: [HERE]
Schools Serving Scott Lake
Scott Lake falls under Waterford School District
(https://www.niche.com/k12/d/waterford-school-district-mi/)
Families also have access to several nearby charter and private school options.
Things to Do On & Around Scott Lake
On the water:
- All-sports boating
- Paddleboarding & kayaking
- Fishing for bass, pike, and panfish
- Swimming in sandy-bottom areas
- Dock and shoreline hangouts
Off the water:
- Pontiac Lake Recreation Area
- Waterford Oaks County Park
- Shopping and restaurants along M-59
- Clarkston’s downtown district (short drive)
- Local golf courses and nature trails
Scott Lake benefits from being close to nearly everything in Waterford.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| All-sports lake with good depth | Weekend traffic due to public launch |
| Approachable lakefront prices | Limited inventory of true lakefront |
| Strong fishing | Water clarity varies seasonally |
| Friendly lake community | Some shoreline areas developed tightly |
| Convenient Waterford location | Smaller size vs. other all-sports lakes |
Final Thoughts
Scott Lake is a versatile all-sports lake that balances recreation, convenience, and value. With strong depth, solid fishing, a friendly community feel, and a central Waterford location, it's a great choice for buyers looking for an enjoyable and accessible Oakland County lake. Whether you're searching for a full-time lake home or a weekend retreat, Scott Lake delivers a well-rounded waterfront lifestyle.
Resources & Helpful Links
- Michigan DNR Boat Launch Information
https://www.michigan.gov/dnr - Michigan EGLE – Lake Water Quality
https://www.michigan.gov/egle - Waterford Township
https://www.waterfordmi.gov - Oakland County Water Resources
https://www.oakgov.com
Frequently Asked Questions – Scott Lake
Is Scott Lake an all-sports lake?
Yes — Scott Lake is fully all-sports.
Does the lake have public access?
Yes — there is a DNR public boat launch.
How big is Scott Lake?
Approximately 68 acres.
How deep is the lake?
Around 55 feet at its deepest point.
Is Scott Lake good for fishing?
Yes — bass, pike, perch, and panfish are common.
Does Scott Lake have sandy areas?
Many swimming areas have a sandy bottom.
Is Scott Lake good for paddleboarding?
Yes — calmer mornings and evenings are ideal.
How busy does the lake get?
Weekends are more active due to public access.
Are short-term rentals allowed?
Waterford has STR regulations — check township rules.
Does Scott Lake freeze in winter?
Typically yes — allowing for ice activities when safe.
What school district serves the lake?
Waterford School District.
Are there connected lakes?
No — Scott Lake is a standalone body of water.
Is the lake family-friendly?
Yes — the community is relaxed and welcoming.
Are there marinas nearby?
Several Waterford marinas serve the area.
Is the water clear?
Clarity is generally good but can vary seasonally.
