Sisters Lakes Area
Sisters Lakes Homes for Sale
Sisters Lakes Overview Map
Use the interactive map to explore all seven lakes.
Located in Michigan’s scenic southwest corner, Sisters Lakes represents one of the state’s most sought-after inland lake destinations. Spread across Cass and Van Buren Counties, this interconnected group of lakes has become synonymous with the best of Michigan lake living: clear spring-fed water, wooded surroundings, and a balance between relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.
Less than two hours from Chicago and about thirty minutes from Kalamazoo or St. Joseph, Sisters Lakes attracts both full-time residents and weekend travelers. The area’s nine-lake system offers something for everyone; Big Crooked, Crooked, Little Crooked, Round, Dewey Lakes, Magician, Cable, Keeler, and Pipestone Lakes stand out for their accessibility, diverse character, and strong real estate value.
Magician Lake is famous for being vibrant, large, and social; a hub for all sports enthusiasts. Cable Lake is peaceful, no-wake, and immersed in nature. Keeler Lake, on the other hand, is secluded, wooded, and perfect for quiet living. Pipestone Lake is famous for its balance, beauty, and versatility. Big Crooked and Crooked Lakes balance leisure pursuits with community charm; Little Crooked emphasizes peace and privacy; Round Lake delivers upscale living; and Dewey Lake provides open water and family fun. Together, they form a complete picture of Michigan’s lake lifestyle, from active weekends on the water to tranquil evenings spent by the shore. Whether you’re seeking an investment, a second home, or a four-season appeal residence, the Sisters Lakes area offers exceptional real estate opportunities, competitive property values, and timeless appeal.
For families, retirees, and investors alike, these lakes offer exceptional opportunities to experience the best of Southwest Michigan’s waterside lifestyle: active, accessible, and enduringly beautiful. Here, families enjoy boating, fishing, and community events in summer, while winter brings peaceful snow-covered scenery and ice fishing on frozen coves. With full-year appeal, reliable water quality, and an active network of lake associations, Sisters Lakes remains one of Southwest Michigan’s most vibrant and stable lakefront markets.
Explore the Nine Lakes
Big Crooked Lake
Overview
Among the most popular of the Sisters Lakes, Big Crooked Lake is known for its sandy bottom, calm clarity, and social atmosphere, Big Crooked is an all-sports lake that blends family fun with residential stability. Its gently sloping shoreline makes it perfect for swimming, while its long stretches of open water offer excellent boating and wakeboarding.
Located just west of Dowagiac, Big Crooked offers a quintessential Michigan lake experience; active yet peaceful, natural yet community-oriented.
- Size: ~110 acres
- Depth: ~50 feet
- Type: Spring-fed, all-sports lake
- Location: Dowagiac, MI
- Access: Public boat launch at the south end
- Nearby Cities: Dowagiac, Kalamazoo, South Bend, Chicago
Homes on Big Crooked Lake range from traditional Michigan cottages to newly built lakefront properties with modern amenities. Most lots feature sandy beaches, docks, and picturesque views of sunrise or sunset. Properties here are highly desirable, with prices typically ranging from $400,000 to $900,000, depending on frontage and updates.
The Big Crooked Lake Association maintains excellent water quality and organizes annual events, including fireworks and community cleanups. Residents describe the lake as active yet family-friendly; a place where weekend visitors and long-term homeowners coexist easily.
Lake activities are central to life on Big Crooked. Summer brings boating, tubing, and jet skiing, while calmer mornings invite kayaking and paddleboarding. Anglers will find populations of bass, bluegill, and perch. Nearby trails and parks provide additional hiking and cycling options, and in winter, residents enjoy ice fishing and skating.
Big Crooked Lake offers everything expected from an all-sports destination: fun, convenience, and a true sense of tight-knit atmosphere.
Crooked Lake
Overview
Located just east of Big Crooked, Crooked Lake is another centerpiece of the Sisters Lakes area. Like its neighbor, it’s an all-sports, spring-fed lake known for its inviting shoreline, clear water, and excellent swimming. The lake’s irregular shape provides both open stretches for boating and private coves for kayaking and fishing.
Crooked Lake’s natural beauty, accessibility, and close-knit community make it a consistent favorite for both seasonal and year-round homeowners.
- Size: ~130 acres
- Depth: ~48 feet
- Type: Spring-fed, all-sports lake
- Location: Dowagiac, MI
- Access: Public boat launch on the north shore
- Nearby Cities: Dowagiac, Hartford, Kalamazoo, South Bend, Chicago
Crooked Lake is known for its balanced development; a mix of mid-century cottages and updated year-round homes, many with private docks and panoramic views. The lots here tend to be wooded, providing privacy while keeping close, friendly local ties. Homes range in price from $425,000 to $950,000, depending on size and frontage.
The lake’s active homeowners’ association manages shoreline care and organizes social events, helping preserve the neighborhood’s character. With paved access roads and proximity to local amenities, Crooked Lake attracts a broad demographic, from young families to retirees seeking full-time lake living.
Crooked Lake supports boating, water skiing, wakeboarding, and pontoon cruising throughout the summer. The lake’s clean, sandy bottom makes swimming ideal, and its surrounding forest areas offer opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. Fishing enthusiasts can expect bass, perch, and pike. During winter, Crooked Lake’s frozen surface becomes a hub for ice skating and ice fishing.
With its mix of seasonal sports and calm natural beauty, Crooked Lake delivers the complete Michigan lake lifestyle.
Little Crooked Lake
Overview
For those seeking privacy and tranquility, Little Crooked Lake provides the perfect setting. It’s a no-wake lake that maintains its calm, glass-like surface ideal in every season. With its wooded perimeter and limited development, it’s a retreat from the busier all-sports lakes nearby.
Despite its smaller size, Little Crooked remains one of the most charming and peaceful destinations in the Sisters Lakes chain.
- Size: ~130 acres
- Depth: ~48 feet
- Type: Spring-fed, all-sports lake
- Location: Dowagiac, MI
- Access: Public boat launch on the north shore
- Nearby Cities: Dowagiac, Hartford, Kalamazoo, South Bend, Chicago
Little Crooked Lake homes are known for their privacy and natural integration with the landscape. Many are nestled within mature trees, featuring rustic architecture and screened porches. Home prices generally range from $350,000 to $700,000, reflecting the limited supply and high demand for peaceful lakefront property.
With fewer short-term rentals and slower turnover, the sense of belonging remains quiet and stable. Homeowners here appreciate the slower pace; a place to read, relax, and enjoy the natural sounds of the Michigan countryside.
Little Crooked Lake is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, as well as for bass and bluegill fishing. The lake’s calm waters make it excellent for swimming and wildlife observation. Each fall, the surrounding forest bursts with color, drawing nature photographers and hikers. Winter transforms the area into a tranquil retreat for ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
For those who value serenity and privacy above all else, Little Crooked Lake offers a timeless Michigan lake experience.
Round Lake
Overview
Round Lake is one of the largest and most prestigious lakes in the Sisters Lakes area. Its circular shape provides panoramic views and even shoreline distribution, creating an inviting, community-oriented environment. The lake’s spring-fed clarity and consistent water level make it ideal for all-sports on-the-water experiences.
With paved roads, easy access to nearby restaurants, and a blend of classic and contemporary homes, Round Lake represents the upscale side of Sisters Lakes living.
- Size: ~194 acres
- Depth: ~50 feet
- Type: Spring-fed, all-sports lake
- Location: Dowagiac, MI
- Access: Public boat launch available
- Nearby Cities: Dowagiac, Kalamazoo, South Bend, Chicago
Round Lake is known for its well-maintained properties and high-end real estate. Homes range from classic cottages to luxury estates valued at over $1 million, many with custom docks and outdoor entertainment spaces. The lake’s accessibility and infrastructure make it perfect for consistent seasonal charm living.
The Round Lake Association promotes responsible shoreline management and neighbourhood engagement, maintaining the area’s reputation for quality and care. With its competitive property values and striking appeal, Round Lake remains one of Southwest Michigan’s premier waterfront addresses.
Round Lake supports a full range of boating, sailing, water skiing, and wakeboarding activities. The lake’s sandy shallows make swimming safe and enjoyable for families. Fishing is popular, with bluegill, perch, and bass among the most common catches. In winter, residents gather for ice skating and hockey on the frozen surface, fostering a lively neighborhood spirit enjoyed throughout the year.
Round Lake offers an ideal mix of energy and elegance; active during the day, peaceful by evening, and always picturesque.
Dewey Lake
Overview
The largest in this cluster of five, Dewey Lake delivers both lake activities diversity and serene charm. It’s a full all-sports lake with deep, clean water and plenty of room for boating, fishing, and relaxation. Located east of Sister Lakes, Dewey Lake is known for its wide open water and family-oriented atmosphere.
- Size: ~200 acres
- Depth: ~50 feet
- Type: All-sports lake
- Location: Dowagiac, MI
- Access: Public boat launch available
- Nearby Cities: Dowagiac, Kalamazoo, South Bend, Chicago
Dewey Lake’s shoreline includes everything from cozy cabins to spacious custom homes, many with direct sandy frontage and private docks. Homes here are generally priced between $425,000 and $1.1 million, depending on location and updates. With full utilities and paved access roads, it’s popular with both weekenders and year-round residents.
Residents describe Dewey Lake as community-driven yet peaceful —a lake where families gather on summer weekends, neighbors host barbecues, and residents look out for one another. Property values remain strong due to its mix of accessibility and size.
Dewey Lake offers endless lake activities, from boating, sailing, and jet skiing to kayaking and paddleboarding along quieter edges. Anglers enjoy catching pike, bass, and crappie, while local trails and vineyards nearby add to the lifestyle appeal. During winter, Dewey transforms into a haven for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and skating, making it a true four-season destination.
Dewey Lake combines the freedom of a large lake with the intimacy of a small-town community, a place where Michigan’s lake life shines from winter to summer.
Magician Lake
Overview
The crown jewel of the Sisters Lakes area, Magician Lake is the largest and most renowned of the group. It’s a true all-sports lake; vibrant, energetic, and central to community life. With crystal-clear water, a sandy bottom, and exceptional depth, Magician Lake is perfect for water skiing, boating, and swimming.
Its three-basin layout ensures plenty of open water for outdoor options while preserving quiet coves for fishing and paddleboarding. Magician is also one of the few lakes in the area with multiple public access points, making it both accessible and inviting for residents and visitors alike.
- Size: ~75 acres
- Depth: ~35 feet
- Type: No-wake, spring-fed lake
- Location: Dowagiac, MI
- Access: Private
- Nearby Cities: Dowagiac, Kalamazoo, South Bend, Chicago
Magician Lake is a diverse real estate market, offering everything from cozy mid-century cottages to luxurious, custom-built waterfront homes. The shoreline is well developed yet carefully maintained, with paved access and modern utilities. Properties typically range from $600,000 to $2 million+, with premium listings featuring outdoor kitchens, expansive decks, and private boat slips.
Residents describe Magician as the social heart of the Sisters Lakes area; a place where summer weekends are filled with community events, fireworks, and lake-wide gatherings. The Magician Lake Improvement Association plays a key role in maintaining water quality and ensuring responsible development.
Magician Lake offers something for everyone. Warm-weather months bring boating, wakeboarding, sailing, and jet skiing, while anglers enjoy catching bass, pike, and bluegill. Public marinas provide convenient access for visitors, and local restaurants and ice cream shops add a nostalgic charm to the summer atmosphere. In winter, the lake remains active with ice fishing and snowmobiling, transforming seamlessly into a four-season destination.
For those seeking a blend of water-based fun, community, and high-value real estate, Magician Lake remains the benchmark for Southwest Michigan lake living.
Cable Lake
Overview
If Magician Lake represents energy and excitement, Cable Lake embodies peace and privacy. Cable is surrounded by mature trees and pristine shorelines. It’s one of the quieter members of the Sisters Lakes family, offering a more intimate and nature-oriented setting for residents who prefer calm waters and low traffic.
Despite its tranquility, Cable Lake is only minutes from the heart of Sister Lakes, giving homeowners easy access to restaurants, markets, and recreation without sacrificing seclusion.
- Size: ~75 acres
- Depth: ~35 feet
- Type: No-wake, spring-fed lake
- Location: Dowagiac, MI
- Access: Private
- Nearby Cities: Dowagiac, Kalamazoo, South Bend, Chicago
Cable Lake’s real estate market is small but highly desirable. Properties are limited, and turnover is rare, helping values remain strong. Homes generally range from $375,000 to $850,000, depending on size and lake frontage. The architecture reflects a mix of rustic charm and modern updates; think screened porches, lakeside fire pits, and tree-lined views.
Residents appreciate the peacefulness of a no-wake lake. Without the roar of motors, mornings are filled with the sound of loons and the gentle rhythm of paddles hitting water. For many, Cable Lake offers the kind of lake experience that’s becoming increasingly rare: quiet, idyllic, and private.
Cable Lake is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and fishing. Anglers enjoy healthy populations of largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie, while the lake’s no-wake policy makes it ideal for swimming and wildlife watching. In the fall, vibrant foliage surrounds the water, creating postcard-worthy reflections, and winter brings calm conditions for ice skating, cross-country skiing, and quiet solitude.
Cable Lake represents the essence of natural Michigan: serene, sustainable, and soul-restoring.
Keeler Lake
Overview
Located just south of the main Sisters Lakes cluster, Keeler Lake is known for its privacy and natural beauty. While smaller than Magician or Dewey Lakes, Keeler is a haven for those seeking peaceful living surrounded by wildlife and mature forest. Its limited boat traffic and low-density development make it one of the area’s most tranquil waterfront settings.
Keeler Lake’s combination of natural charm and convenient proximity to Dowagiac and Hartford has helped it quietly become one of the region’s best-kept real estate secrets.
- Size: ~50 acres
- Depth: ~25 feet
- Type: No-wake, spring-fed lake
- Location: Keeler Township, MI
- Access: Private
- Nearby Cities: Dowagiac, Hartford, Kalamazoo, South Bend, Chicago
Homes on Keeler Lake range from rustic log cabins to updated residences that emphasize natural materials and water views. Most properties are positioned on wooded lots with direct frontage, ensuring privacy and space. Home prices typically range from $350,000 to $700,000, depending on size and updates.
Unlike busier lakes, Keeler Lake’s residents value peace, quiet, and community connection. It’s a place where neighbors know one another, yet privacy is respected. Many homeowners here use their properties throughout the year, enjoying the seasonal changes that define Michigan’s landscape.
Because Keeler Lake is a no-wake lake, it’s ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The calm surface also makes swimming safe and relaxing. Anglers regularly catch bass, crappie, and bluegill, while nature enthusiasts enjoy the abundance of birds and wildlife. Surrounding trails invite hiking and cycling, and in winter, Keeler Lake transforms into a peaceful snow-covered retreat for ice fishing, snowshoeing, and reflection.
Keeler Lake offers understated luxury, with a focus on serenity rather than speed.
Pipestone Lake
Overview
Situated slightly north of the primary Sisters Lakes cluster, Pipestone Lake is a partial-wake lake that combines recreational freedom with a calm, residential atmosphere. Known for its consistent water clarity and scenic beauty, it provides a well-balanced lake lifestyle for homeowners who want both activity and quiet.
With easy access to Coloma, Dowagiac, and St. Joseph, Pipestone Lake sits at the crossroads of convenience and natural beauty; a perfect middle ground for families and retirees alike.
- Size: ~100 acres
- Depth: ~45 feet
- Type: Partial-wake lake
- Location: Pipestone Township, MI
- Access: Public boat launch
- Nearby Cities: Dowagiac, Coloma, Benton Harbor, Kalamazoo, South Bend, Chicago
Pipestone Lake’s shoreline features a mix of classic cottages, remodeled homes, and new construction, most on private lots with direct water access. The real estate market remains steady, with home prices ranging from $375,000 to $850,000. Many homeowners appreciate the lake’s moderate pace; it allows motorboats and pontoons but limits excessive wake activity, preserving the peaceful ambiance.
With its manageable size and strong community oversight, Pipestone Lake delivers a well-rounded experience, ideal for both full-time living and seasonal getaways. Utilities, paved access, and proximity to major routes make it an appealing option for those seeking convenience without compromise.
Pipestone Lake is known for boating, fishing, and paddle sports. Anglers often catch bass, perch, and bluegill, while the calm areas are ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. Nearby attractions such as Paw Paw Lake, local vineyards, and hiking trails add variety for outdoor enthusiasts. In colder months, Pipestone transforms into a serene winter setting for ice fishing and quiet walks.
It’s a lake that offers balance; enough activity for fun, yet calm enough to recharge and reconnect with nature.
Summary of Comparison by Lake
Here’s a quick lifestyle and pricing snapshot
Lake
Size (Acres)
Lake Type
Lifestyle Character
Typical Home Range
Big Crooked Lake
~110
All-sports
Active, family-friendly, social
$400K–$900K
Crooked Lake
~130
All-sports
Balanced, versatile, community-oriented
$425K–$950K
Little Crooked Lake
~40
No-Wake
Peaceful, wooded, secluded
$350K–$700K
Round Lake
~194
All-Sports
Premier, upscale, full-time living
$500K–$1M+
Dewey Lake
~200
All-sports
Spacious, recreational, family-focused
$425K–$1.1M
Magician Lake
~498
All-sports
Vibrant, social, high-value market
$600K–$2M+
Cable Lake
~75
No-Wake
Natural, private, tranquil
$375K–$850K
Keeler Lake
~50
No-Wake
Rustic, intimate, nature-inspired
$350K–$700K
Pipestone Lake
~100
Partial-Wake
Balanced, accessible, scenic
$375K–$850K
Big Crooked, Crooked, Dewey, Round, and Magician Lakes dominate the all-sports segment, attracting boaters and active families looking for full-season enjoyment. Cable, Keeler, and Little Crooked appeal to those seeking serenity, privacy, and immersion in nature. Pipestone Lake bridges both worlds, offering partial-wake recreation and easy access to nearby towns.
Real estate across the Sisters Lakes remains in high demand. With inventory tightening and property values rising, well-maintained lakefront homes, especially those with sandy frontage and modern amenities, are often sold within days. Whether purchasing a weekend getaway, investment property, or full-time home, the area’s combination of accessibility, community, and natural beauty continues to drive consistent long-term value.
Common Questions About Sisters Lakes Real Estate
Are all Sisters Lakes suitable for year-round living?
Yes. Many properties feature full utilities, paved access, and modern insulation, allowing comfortable year-round residency. Lakes like Round, Magician, and Crooked are particularly popular for full-time homes.
Which lakes are best for boating and water sports?
Magician, Round, Dewey, and Big Crooked Lakes are the top choices for boating, jet skiing, and wakeboarding. Their open water and all-sports designation make them ideal for active families.
What are the quieter, more private lakes in the area?
Cable, Keeler, and Little Crooked Lakes offer peaceful no-wake environments with limited development, making them perfect for kayaking, fishing, and relaxation.
What is the current price range for homes around Sisters Lakes?
Homes typically range between $350,000 and $2 million+, depending on location, frontage, and home quality. Luxury properties on Magician or Round Lake command the highest values.
Are there public access points on these lakes?
Yes. Lakes like Magician, Round, Big Crooked, Dewey, and Pipestone have public boat launches, while smaller lakes such as Cable and Keeler are private.
How competitive is the Sisters Lakes real estate market?
The market remains highly competitive, with limited inventory and steady buyer demand from Michigan and Chicago-area residents. Waterfront homes often sell quickly during spring and summer.
Do these lakes allow short-term rentals?
Some do, but regulations vary by township and association. Magician and Round Lakes tend to permit seasonal rentals with proper permits, while quieter lakes may restrict them.
What outdoor amenities are near the Sisters Lakes area?
Residents enjoy access to local vineyards, hiking trails, Prairie View Park, and Al Sabo Preserve. The region supports all-season recreation, from summer boating to winter snowmobiling and ice fishing.
How close are the Sisters Lakes to major Michigan destinations?
The area is approximately 30 minutes from St. Joseph, 45 minutes from Kalamazoo, and less than two hours from Chicago, making it ideal for weekend retreats or commuter living.
Are Sisters Lakes properties a good investment?
Absolutely. Waterfront homes in this area have shown consistent appreciation due to limited development, excellent water quality, and sustained demand. The combination of lifestyle and long-term value makes Sisters Lakes one of Michigan’s strongest lakefront markets.
Work with Lake Life Realty
Whether you’re searching for your dream lakefront property or ready to sell, Paul DeLano and Lake Life Realty Group bring unparalleled expertise to the Sisters Lakes real estate market. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of Southwest Michigan’s inland lakes, Paul helps clients make informed decisions based on data, lifestyle, and local insight.
At Lake Life Realty, every transaction begins with understanding your goals; whether it’s finding a peaceful no-wake escape or a vibrant all-sports lake home. Explore current listings, market updates, and lake-specific guides at TheLakeLife.com or connect directly with Paul DeLano to begin your next chapter on the water.
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