Many buyers searching Fenton waterfront end up torn between two lakes whose centers are only about two miles apart. Both are deep, all-sports lakes in Fenton Charter Township, but they feel quite different on the water.
Size and depth
- Lake Fenton is the bigger of the two, at roughly 845 acres and roughly 90 to 95 feet at its deepest.
- Lake Ponemah covers roughly 370 to 400 acres, depending on the survey, and reaches about 76 to 77 feet.
Figures vary between surveys and with water levels, so treat them as a guide.
Open water vs. a chain to explore
Lake Fenton is one large body of open water, which suits long pulls behind a boat. Lake Ponemah is the hub of a chain: channels connect it to Aanikegamaa Lake (formerly Squaw Lake) and Tupper Lake, and the Shiawassee River runs through. If you like to cruise, paddle, or anchor in a different cove each weekend, the Ponemah chain offers variety in a smaller package.
Public access
- Lake Fenton's DNR boat launch is off Grove Park Road.
- Lake Ponemah's public access is on its southeast side, reached from North Road. Kayakers and canoeists launch there to paddle the river route across to Tupper.
Schools
Both lakes straddle the line between Fenton Area Public Schools and Lake Fenton Community Schools, so the district depends on which side of the lake you're on. Always confirm it for the exact address.
Which one is right for you?
It comes down to how you'll use the water, your budget and the type of frontage you want. For Lake Fenton listings and market notes, visit FentonLake.com. For the Ponemah chain, start with the Fenton Township waterfront search.
Or call John Tremaine at (810) 444-0495. He can show you both lakes in one afternoon.
Sources: Tri-County Times Source Book; Michigan EGLE data via LakeQuality.org; Michigan DNR contour data; PST Lake Association; U.S. Census Bureau school district boundaries.