Hidden Gems: The Best Small Lakes Near Fremont and Fallburn

1. Clear Lake

Why it qualifies as a gem:

• According to the county’s outdoor access listing, Clear Lake is one of the many lakes with public access spots. visitsteubencounty.com+1

• It is described as “one of the clearest lakes in the state” in a county-blog, noted for its fishing and scenic forested edges. visitsteubencounty.com+1

• Smaller, less frantic than the high-traffic lakes, which means more tranquility and potential for homes with character rather than large developments.

What to know if you’re considering it:

• Explore how many full-time vs vacation homes line the lake — quieter lakes often mean more value for year-round living.

• Check the boat access and any public boat ramps; smaller lakes may have more restrictions or fewer amenities.

• Ask about shoreline zoning and future development — hidden gem status can change if growth accelerates.

2. Fish Lake

Why it qualifies as a gem:

• Featured in a “fishing spots near Fremont” article, Fish Lake is mentioned among the smaller, less prominent lakes in the region. lake-link.com

• Being less visited means you’re more likely to find a quieter shoreline and a lifestyle that leans toward retreat rather than full-scale vacation hub.

What to know if you’re considering it:

• Because it's less prominent, infrastructure (like boat ramps, docks, restaurants nearby) may be more limited — check local amenities.

• If you’re buying, this might mean more hidden value — smaller lakes can be undervalued relative to big names.

• Inspect waterside conditions: shoreline vegetation, easements, and boat traffic may differ markedly from more developed lakes.

3. Lake George

Why it qualifies as a gem:

• Lake George straddles the Indiana–Michigan state line and is located near Angola and Fremont. Wikipedia

• It’s smaller and less intensely developed than some of the region’s flagship lakes, offering a more relaxed option for waterfront living without being too remote.

What to know if you’re considering it:

• Double-check state-line matters: zoning, property tax implications, and regulatory differences between Indiana vs Michigan sides.

• As with all smaller lakes, check for boat-traffic limits and seasonal crowding.

• If lifestyle is priority (peace, nature, community), this could be a strong contender — but if you want full amenities, you might need to factor in a short drive.

✅ Why Choosing a “Hidden Gem” Lake Can Be Smart

• Less competition in purchasing means you may get better value.

• Quieter lifestyle often means year-round comfort rather than just seasonal use.

• Potential upside: nicer homes can appreciate as the region grows and more buyers look for alternatives to the busiest lakes.

• Proximity: All three are near Fremont/Fallburn, giving you access to small-town amenities + lake life.

📝 Final Thoughts

If you’re exploring lake homes near Fremont or Fallburn, don’t overlook the smaller lakes. Clear Lake, Fish Lake and Lake George each offer their own brand of charm, lifestyle, and investment potential.As always, work with a local real-estate expert who knows Steuben County lakes intimately, visit at different times of day, check access and infrastructure — and match your choice to your long-term goals (vacation, full-time living, rental strategy).