WHITE LAKE, MI
WHITE LAKE, MI
White Lake Township, MI: lake-rich living, Highland Recreation Area access, and a “weekend-up-north” feel in Oakland County
HIGHLIGHTS
White Lake (officially White Lake Charter Township) is a large community in Oakland County, Michigan known for its outdoorsy lifestyle, abundant lakes, and access to some of the region’s best recreation spaces. At roughly 37 square miles, White Lake offers a mix of lake neighborhoods, wooded residential pockets, and open space that makes it feel more “up north” than a typical Metro Detroit suburb.
Water is a big part of the identity here. Several square miles of the township are water, and the Huron River runs through the area, adding to the nature-forward setting. Many residents choose White Lake because they want more breathing room, more trees, and more opportunities to be outside—without being far from everyday conveniences in neighboring communities.
What White Lake Township is known for
1) Lots of lakes and a strong “lake lifestyle” culture.
White Lake is known for having many lakes (over 20) across the township, which means lake living is common—whether that’s true waterfront property, deeded access, or simply being close enough to make water and park time part of everyday life. Lake routines here often include boating, kayaking, fishing, paddleboarding, beach days, and evening walks near the water.
2) Local community areas and “pockets” residents reference.
White Lake includes recognizable community areas that locals may use when describing where they live, including East White Lake, Oxbow, and White Lake proper. In a township this large, pocket location can shape your day-to-day feel—some areas lean more lake-centered, while others feel more wooded and residential.
3) Highland Recreation Area for year-round outdoor fun.
One of the biggest lifestyle draws near White Lake is access to the Highland Recreation Area, a major destination for:
Horseback riding
Mountain biking
Hiking and nature trails
Cross-country skiing and winter recreation
For residents, this is the kind of amenity that turns “we should get outside this weekend” into something that’s actually easy to do.
4) Haven Hill and local history connected to the outdoors.
Within the broader recreation area, the Edsel Ford estate (Haven Hill) is a well-known local point of interest that adds a layer of history to the area’s outdoor identity.
5) Nearby skiing and winter recreation at Alpine Valley.
White Lake is also close to Alpine Valley, a popular winter recreation destination that contributes to the area’s “four seasons outside” lifestyle.
Living in White Lake Township: vibe, lifestyle, and who it fits best
White Lake Township tends to feel outdoorsy, spacious, and nature-forward, and it’s often a great fit for people who want:
A lake-and-trails lifestyle in Oakland County
More space and a less “dense suburb” feel
Easy access to big recreation areas for biking, hiking, and winter activities
Neighborhood options ranging from lake communities to wooded residential streets
A community that feels like a weekend getaway, even on a normal weeknight
If you love the idea of living where you can kayak in the summer and hit trails in the fall without a long drive, White Lake fits that rhythm.
Real estate and home styles in White Lake Township
Because White Lake is large and includes many lakes, the housing mix is broad. Buyers commonly find:
Lakefront and lake-adjacent homes in select pockets
Traditional subdivisions with ranches, colonials, and mid-century styles
Larger lots and wooded-feeling neighborhoods in certain areas
A range of renovation levels, from move-in ready updates to value-add opportunities
A helpful note for buyers: in White Lake, micro-location matters a lot. Being near a specific lake, having lake privileges, or being closer to recreation areas can change the lifestyle (and often the demand) even if the homes are similar in size.
Things to do: lake days, trail weekends, and year-round outdoor routines
White Lake makes it easy to build weekend plans around the outdoors:
Lake time across the township’s many lake neighborhoods
Trail walks, biking, and winter recreation near Highland Recreation Area
Exploring local history tied to the Haven Hill estate area
Skiing and winter fun near Alpine Valley
Scenic drives and “nature breaks” that feel like you got out of town
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in White Lake Township, MI
Is White Lake Township a good place to live?
It can be an excellent fit if you want lake access, outdoor recreation, and a more spacious, nature-forward community in Oakland County.
What is White Lake Township known for?
Lots of lakes, a strong lake-living culture, access to Highland Recreation Area, and nearby winter recreation options like Alpine Valley.
How big is White Lake Charter Township?
White Lake is a large township at roughly 37 square miles, with several square miles of water and many lakes throughout the community.
Do you need a boat to enjoy living in White Lake?
No. Boat owners love the area, but many residents enjoy lake views, parks, kayaking, fishing, and trail access without owning a boat.
What are the main outdoor attractions near White Lake?
Highland Recreation Area is a major draw for trails, mountain biking, horseback riding, and winter activities, and the Haven Hill area is a well-known local point of interest.
Want to explore White Lake homes that match your lifestyle?
If you want to call White Lake Township, MI home, reach out to us to get started today!
Jim Shaffer and Associates, powered by Good Company, has been helping Metro Detroit move since 1999. The team of 51 agents and staff closes an average of 850 transactions each year and has surpassed $2 billion in career sales, making them the #1 team in Oakland County, the top team in Ferndale, Royal Oak, Oak Park, and Hazel Park, and one of the most trusted names in Metro Detroit real estate. Their reputation for results and client care has earned recognition from RealTrends America’s Best, Hour Detroit All Stars, and the Detroit Free Press Top Workplaces.
With over 2,700 Google reviews, 956 Zillow reviews, and decades of local experience, Jim Shaffer and Associates has built a legacy of trust and community in Ferndale and across Metro Detroit. Their team specializes in guiding first-time home buyers, first-time sellers, move-up buyers, and downsizers through every step of the process. From Oakland to Wayne and Macomb Counties and all surrounding cities, Jim Shaffer and Associates continues to set the standard for exceptional service and proven results in Southeast Michigan real estate.
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