The Best Lake Destination in Every State
The Best Lake Vacations in America
Gorgeous lakes are dotted all over the USA, so no matter where you are in the country, you aren’t far from a breathtaking inland body of water and a few days of fun—especially over a three-day holiday weekend. The best lakes in America serve as both a base for water-based recreation and a place to get away from it all. Some beautiful lakes were formed by glaciers, and others lakes were created by modern works of engineering. Some of the best American lakes are as big as seas while others can be sailed across with one strong breeze. Some are warm year-round while others may stay a little chilly even in the summer. Almost all attract visitors looking for some fun on the water or just simply a slice of solitude and the following collection features the best lake destinations in each state.
Alabama: Lake Martin
Home to nearly 900 miles of shoreline and tens of thousands of acres of greenery on its fringes, Lake Martin is more than deserving of its “Alabama’s Freshwater Coast” nickname. Spend some time in one of the attractive towns located near the lake before taking to the water to swing by Chimney Rock, where you’re guaranteed to meet like-minded lake goers having a great time on the water.
Alaska: Wonder Lake
It may only be a mile wide and a few miles long, but this dreamy lake inside Denali National Park proves you can be majestic without being massive. Catch the reflection of the peaks of the vast Alaska Range (including Denali if it’s a clear day) in the lake’s water and perhaps spot some waterfowl, caribou or moose.
Arizona: Lake Havasu
This huge manmade lake on the border of Arizona and California is a paradise for sun-soaked socializing. Admire the view of the mountains from the beach at Lake Havasu State Park before taking to the water and nightlife spots in lively Lake Havasu City. If you’re in the mood, you can always take a quick history lesson at Havasu too because the lake is home to the London Bridge, which was transferred piece-by-piece from England to Arizona.
Arkansas: Lake Ouachita
Lake Ouachita is the biggest lake in the Natural State and is home to over 200 small islands perfect for exploring by boat. Come summer, the lake is filled with folks chasing fish and a tan on its multiple shoreline beaches. And since it’s only an hour from Hot Springs, the two serve as the perfect combination trip.
California: Lake Shasta
Set inside the naturally-stunning Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Lake Shasta (or Shasta Lake) is a remarkably beautiful reservoir, home to over 300 miles of shoreline and sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. The lake is a heavenly houseboat destination, with many local businesses in the area renting to lake goers.
Colorado: Maroon Lake
You can most definitely find elevated boating experiences on Blue Mesa and Lake Granby, but head into the mountains near Aspen for a lake that will truly take your breath away. Maroon Lake is famous for the fact that it reflects the Maroon Bells mountains and when you’re sitting on the shore looking up at those peaks, you’ll find yourself experiencing a true Rocky Mountain high.
Connecticut: Candlewood Lake
The largest lake in the state and the biggest lake within an hour of New York City, Candlewood serves as a place of rest and recreation for locals and visitors alike. Candlewood Lake Town Park features a nice beach and great views of the water.
Delaware: Lums Pond
Located in the northern section of the state, Lums Pond is Delaware’s largest freshwater pond and it provides a great spot for fun days out on and around the water. Spot wildlife from a canoe, paddleboat or kayak, or just enjoy the ambiance of the lake setting from the comfort of a campground.
Florida: Lake Okeechobee
They don’t call it “Florida’s Inland Sea” for nothing, as this sprawling body of water is the second largest freshwater lake entirely within the Lower 48. How big? Big enough that you won’t be able to see land on the other side of the lake when standing on the shore. Fish, boat or just spot wildlife year-round at this marvel of Mother Nature.
Georgia: Lake Lanier
The largest lake entirely within the Peach State, Lake Lanier is less than an hour from Atlanta and is the perfect spot to leave the city behind for the day or a few. Take to the water, where you’re bound to meet other boaters out having a good time then kick your feet up at one of the waterside restaurants and bars like thatched-roof tiki spot Pelican Pete’s.
Hawai’i: Lake Waiau
There’s no need to beat around the bush: while Hawai’i is heaven for beaches, there just aren’t that many lakes in the state. Lake Waiau is one exception, as this small yet sacred lake sits on Mauna Kea mountain on the Big Island, making it one of the nation’s highest lakes and a revered spot in Hawaiian culture. The lake can be reached via hike when visiting Mauna Kea.
Idaho: Lake Coeur d’Alene
Take to the water to do some fishing or get your adrenaline rushing on this gorgeous lake in northern Idaho before settling in to let someone else do the driving on one of the beloved scenic Lake Coeur d’Alene cruises. On these classic excursions, you’ll learn a bit about the history of the lake in addition to getting to spot some of its prettiest natural features.
Illinois: Carlyle Lake
Make no mistake, Lake Michigan is marvelous, but the Land of Lincoln shares it with multiple other states, and after all, they didn’t call it “Lake Illinois”. The largest lake located entirely within the state is the manmade beauty Carlyle Lake in the southern part of the state, and it’s a heaven for boating, fishing and sailing.
Indiana: Lake Wawasee
The biggest natural lake in the state, Lake Wawasee attracts folks from all over the region to enjoy its placid waters and a seemingly endless list of fun things to do on the water. Boat, jetski, waterski or just enjoy a slower pace on a sailboat. The best part? The lake is connected to nearby Syracuse Lake by channel and Syracuse—the town that sits between them—is one of the state’s most charming small towns.
Iowa: West Lake Okoboji
The liveliest of the Iowa Great Lakes, West Lake Okoboji is home to great places to lay on the sand like Terrace Park Beach, miles of water perfect for boating & fishing and the timeless Arnold Park Amusement Park. Spend your days working hard doing nothing or head to Gull Point State Park to do some lakeside walking on the terrific trail network.
Kansas: Clinton Lake
It’s not the biggest lake in the state, but this lovely body of water on the outskirts of Lawrence is home to some of the best lake beaches in the state. Add that to the fact there’s a stellar marina that rents pontoons on shore and you’re sunny summer weekends in the Sunflower State are all set.
Kentucky: Lake Cumberland
The “Houseboat Capital of America” is a gorgeous place to spend a few days on the water and have a very good time indeed. Find a hidden cove to relax and admire the local wildlife or head over to Harmon Creek Party Cove to see folks living their best—sometimes wild—life.
Louisiana: Caddo Lake
Sprawling across the border of Louisiana and Texas, Caddo Lake is home to bewitching waterways lined with Spanish moss-draped cypress trees and a fascinating range of fauna. Take to the water in a canoe, kayak or pontoon to slowly make your way around the lake to appreciate the unique ecosystem or just admire the lake from the trails that weave their way through the local woodlands.
Maine: Moosehead Lake
The state’s largest lake, Moosehead covers over 100 square miles and is home to scores of islands perfect for exploring in addition to being home to the dramatic Mount Kineo. Take a boat out to find your favorite isle or stay onshore to spot some of the local wildlife, which naturally includes moose. And if you’re lucky, you might just see the Northern Lights dance overhead at night.
Maryland: Deep Creek Lake
Located in the far western section of the state, Deep Creek is the largest lake in the state and an ever-popular weekend getaway. There are multiple marinas on the shore, providing lake goers the opportunity to take part in every imaginabale form of fun out on the water.
Massachusetts: Walden Pond
You won’t be speeding around on jet skis or floating around on a party mat with a dozen of your friends, but Walden Pond will be a memorable lake experience nonetheless. This bewitching lake was made famous by writer Henry David Thoreau, and trails lead to the spot where he stayed while writing beside the lake back in the mid-1800s. If the sun is out, sit on the side of the lake soaking up rays to the sound of the gently lapping water or take a canoe out to view the pond from another angle.
Michigan: Lake Michigan
The Great Lakes were bound to make an appearance sooner or later, right? No matter where you are in Michigan, you aren’t more than an hour or so drive from one and more often than not, it’s the eponymous Lake Michigan. From the dramatic bluffs of Sleeping Bear Dunes to the Mackinac Straits where Lake Michigan meets Lake Huron, the lake is lined with beaches, summer towns and stretches of open water that feel and look more like a sea than a lake.
Minnesota: Lake Mille Lacs
Perhaps the definition of “spoiled for choice”, there is famously said to be 10,000 lakes in Minnesota, but the real number is closer to 12,000. That means you can pretty much find a fine lake to have a good time at anywhere in the state, but Lake Mille Lacs in the middle of Minny is in a class all its own due to its renowned reputation for bass fishing and sensational stretch of sand at Father Hennepin State Park.
Mississippi: Clear Springs Lake
Small but remarkable, this refreshing, 12-acre spring-fed lake is hidden among scenic pine tree-filled hills in southern Mississippi. Swimming, fishing and camping are all popular activities in this remarkable space, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service.
Missouri: Lake of the Ozarks
Thanks to Netflix, the secret is now way out on this Midwest playground (as of writing, there’s a bar & grill named after the main character in Ozark). That doesn’t detract from its appeal though, as this manmade stunner is still the reigning champ in the Show-Me State for boating and waterside revelry.
Montana: Flathead Lake
One of the clearest lakes in the West, Flathead is the perfect place to take part in a host of watersports (swimming, waterskiing, and fishing are all popular) or to just simply lounge on a raft and dangle your toes in the glassy water. With over 200 square miles of water and nearly 200 miles of shoreline, you are certain to find a slice of lakeside paradise to call your own.
Nebraska: Lake McConaughy
Lovingly referred to as “Lake Mac”, this reservoir is Nebraska’s largest body of water and an ever-popular recreation spot for residents of the surrounding region. Come for the day and get out on the water with your boat or jet ski or camp directly on the sand at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area Either way, you’re going to have an excellent time at this lake.
Nevada: Lake Tahoe
Turquoise water. Breathtaking alpine mountain backdrop. Hiking. Gaming. Skiing (sometimes snow and water skiing on the same day). You can do it all at this truly spectacular body of water on the border of Nevada and California. Don’t skip a stop at Zephyr Cove or Sand Harbor, two beaches that will make you feel like you’re at the sea instead of a couple of hundred miles inland.
New Hampshire: Lake Winnipesaukee
Set at the foot of the wondrous White Mountains, Lake Winnipesaukee is the state’s largest lake and an outdoor-lovers paradise. Hike the mountains that surround the lake to take in the view from above, take a canoe out to find a serene cove or join the crowds in Braun Bay for a lake party you won’t forget.
New Jersey: Lake Hopatcong
Located in the northern Highlands region of the Garden State, this lake is the state’s biggest freshwater body of water and is beloved by locals and those from further afield. Roughly four square miles in size, there’s plenty of space for boaters, swimmers and water skiers, with the shoreline hosting some of the state’s only lakeside dining options.
New Mexico: Elephant Butte
The blue water of Elephant Butte Reservoir looks especially striking against the sandy brown backdrop of the New Mexico landscape, but rest assured, it’s more than just a pretty lake. Sailboats, kayaks pontoons and speed boats are all at home on its waters and the lake is surrounded by trails for exploring and camping facilities. Fishing is also very popular at The Butte, with guides available to hire for the day.
New York: Lake George
One of the Grand Dames of American lake resorts, Lake George and its hotels & attractions have aged like a fine wine. Set in the shadow of the Adirondack Mountains, spend your summer days swimming or doing some hiking and your evenings taking one of the romantic cruises on one of the lake’s historic steamboats.
North Carolina: Lake Norman
Less than an hour from Charlotte, Lake Norman is a dream come true for lake lovers. You won’t find any horsepower restrictions in place at the lake, so you will find kayaks and SUPs sharing the gorgeous water with boats and pontoons. Off the water, Mooresville is home to several great restaurants & bars perfect for relaxing after a day on the water.
North Dakota: Lake Sakakawea
The third largest manmade lake in the nation, Lake Sakakawea is beloved by North Dakotans for its range of great things to do, especially angling, camping, swimming and boating. Take part in one of those activities or just sit on the beach at Lake Sakakawea State Park, located near Pick City on the south side of the lake.
Ohio: Lake Erie
Ohio owns more Lake Erie shoreline than any other state by far, and as a result, is full of grand things to do on this Great Lake. From the waterside bars of the Flats in Cleveland to the beach at Cedar Point and all the way up to party-hardy Put-in-Bay—located on an island in the middle of the lake—if you’re by Lake Erie in Ohio, you’re going to have a tremendous time.
Oklahoma: Grand Lake
Located in northeast Oklahoma, Grand Lake is the state’s best all-around lake. Hang with the party peeps at the Dripping Springs area of the lake and all the waterside bars & restaurants on the shoreline or just law low doing some fishing as the bass angling here is top-notch.
Oregon: Crater Lake
The deepest lake in the United States, a trip to this volcanic crater-turned lake is bound to take your breath away. Admire the striking blue water and the lake’s moody Wizard Island, features that are both surrounded by 2,000-foot-high cliffs. In the summer, you can take a scenic drive around the lake and even enjoy a boat tour of this special natural wonder.
Pennsylvania: Lake Wallenpaupack
The second-largest lake entirely within the Keystone State, Lake Wallenpaupack is second-to-none when it comes to fun. Coming in at over 13 miles long and boasting over 50 miles of shoreline, there’s plenty of space for pontooning, water skiing, wakeboarding and any other water-based sport you can think of at this paradise in The Poconos. Oh, and the lakeside town of Hawley is delightful day and night.
Rhode Island: Spring Lake
They may call it the Ocean State and it’s true that the majority of the boating fun is happening down on the coast, but this small but fun lake offers a kitschy swimming hole vibe complete with a retro penny arcade. Rent some kayaks or canoes to paddle around the water or just hang out on the sand, you’re sure to make some summertime memories.
South Carolina: Lake Keowee
Tucked away in the northwest uplands of the state, Lake Keowee is a meandering, manmade lake home to quiet coves and endless recreational opportunities. The lake is known all over the region for its atmospheric mountain setting that serves to make every trip here extra special.
South Dakota: Lake Sylvan
Rent paddleboats or just lounge on the beach at this especially pretty lake inside Custer State Park in the Black Hills. Test your photo skills by catching a snap of the water and the lake’s signature rock formations before retreating to the historic Sylvan Lake Lodge for dinner and a drink.
Tennessee: Kentucky Lake
Nope, that’s not a typo, this manmade beauty extends well into the Volunteer State, and come summer, it becomes the place to go to embrace fun on the water. Rent a houseboat or just stay in a house near the water and take a boat out on the lake all day, but just make sure to stay out long enough in order to catch a Kentucky Lake sunset.
Texas: Lake Travis
Located on the outskirts of Austin, Lake Travis is Texas’ ultimate lake destination and the most visited lake in the state. Take a cruise or do some SUPing, kayaking, swimming or pontooning on the lake’s waters before grabbing a group of friends to join the crowds at Devil’s Cove for some of Travis’ signature brand of revelry.
Utah: Bear Lake
You might do a double take when you first see northern Utah’s Bear Lake, but your eyes will be alright, it really is that shade of blue. Coming in at almost 20 miles long, there’s lots of space out on the water for all types of water-based recreation, including simply just lounging on the sand, which is precisely what folks do at the aptly named Rendezvous Beach.
Vermont: Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain stretches well over 100 miles and includes shorelines in New York and Quebec, but Vermont owns the largest swath. Spend your days boating on the lake’s gorgeous water or resting up on the beach and then your nights bouncing around buzzy Burlington.
Virginia: Buggs Island Lake
The largest body of water in the Virginia, Buggs Island is for lake lovers. The lake is perfect for any watersport under the sun, but angling is especially excellent as Buggs Island is famed for its bass fishing and is the spot where a world record blue catfish was once caught.
Washington: Lake Washington
Located in the heart of Seattle, Lake Washington is the perfect spot to go for scenic cherry blossom strolling in the spring, swimming in the summer or fishing year-round. The lake is also a favorite spot for boat-based tailgaters for the University of Washington Huskies, or as they like to call them in these parts, “sailgaters”.
West Virginia: Lake Summersville
The largest lake in the Mountain State, Summersville is known for excellent water quality and its striking cliffs that create one of the most dramatic lake backdrops in the nation. There are over 60 miles of shoreline to explore, so take to the water in a vessel of your choice to find your favorite stretch.
Wisconsin: Lake Geneva
One of the Midwest’s most popular family getaways, Lake Geneva is a classic lake resort located a short drive from both Chicago and Milwaukee. Once you’ve fully explored the lake, head onto dry land to pamper yourself at one of the lake’s many spas or take a long scenic stroll along the acclaimed shore path, where you can walk past mansions and quiet corners of lapping water.
Wyoming: Yellowstone Lake
One of the best ways to fully appreciate the wonder of Yellowstone National Park is to get out on its namesake lake and the Yellowstone National Park lodges offer guided boat trips just for that purpose. Other outfits provide canoeing and kayaking logistics, but even if you stay on shore at one of the lake’s rugged strips of gray sand, the beauty of this lake will stay with you long after you leave.