Top 10 Recreational Lakes in the United States

The United States boasts numerous stunning recreational lakes that offer a wide range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. From boating to fishing, these lakes are perfect destinations for adventure seekers. Below are the ten best lakes for recreation that you should consider visiting.

Lake Powell

Lake Powell is a magnificent reservoir located in the Glen Canyon National Recreational Area near the Utah and Arizona border. With its crisp blue waters winding through striking red rock canyons, it presents endless opportunities for water sports and outdoor adventures. Visitors can embark on boat tours, try water skiing, and visit unique landmarks such as Cathedral in the Desert, a stunning rock monument. Moreover, its proximity to the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley makes it a prime destination for those seeking an unforgettable road trip.

Lake Lanier

Lake Lanier, situated in North Georgia, is approximately an hour’s drive from Atlanta. This man-made reservoir was created by damming the Chattahoochee River and serves as a vital source of electricity and flood control. Annually, over 10 million visitors come to Lake Lanier, drawn by attractions such as Lanier Islands, which provide a comprehensive recreational hub complete with lodging and dining options for all budgets, including tent camping and RV parks.

Lake of the Ozarks

Regarded as Missouri’s crown jewel, Lake of the Ozarks is a world-class destination situated in central Missouri. Visitors will discover an abundance of land-based activities, delightful dining venues, and ample accommodations. With numerous marinas available for boating rentals, the lake also offers 32 hiking trails and several caves to explore. Affordable camping options are available nearby, particularly in Ozarks State Park and Ha Ha Tonka State Park.

Pickwick Lake, Tennessee

Created by the Tennessee Valley Authority during the 1930s and 1940s, Pickwick Lake is a favored spot for water sports and recreation. Located on the borders of Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi, this lake is just outside Memphis. Yellow Creek Cove is a popular summer hangout for boaters, featuring a lively atmosphere and a rope swing into the water. Additionally, visitors can camp at Pickwick Landing State Park, which offers a marina and boat rentals.

Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake, nestled in Southern California, is renowned as the ‘Jewel of the San Bernardino National Forest’ and is accessible throughout all four seasons for water-related activities. Located about 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles, it is also conveniently reachable from Las Vegas and Phoenix. The lake features a charming mountain atmosphere along with hiking trails, winter skiing, and summer swimming. Big Bear Village serves as the central hub for dining and lodging, where visitors can enjoy local festivals during Halloween and Christmas.

Lake Tahoe

Located on the California-Nevada border near Reno, Lake Tahoe is recognized as the second-deepest lake in the United States (after Crater Lake). Famous for its crystal clear waters and vibrant hues, Tahoe functions as a gateway to a myriad of recreational adventures. Visitors have access to hundreds of miles of breathtaking hiking trails and can rent paddleboards and kayaks to explore the serene waters of the lake.

Lake Mead

As the largest reservoir in the United States, Lake Mead lies just outside Las Vegas and was formed by the Hoover Dam. Boating is a highly popular activity here, with four distinct marinas providing facilities for boat rentals and storage. The Lake Mead Cruises offers delightful nighttime cruises to the Hoover Dam and back, while the lake is celebrated for its exceptional fishing opportunities, making it a favorite destination among sport fishers.

Lake Placid

Lake Placid, located within the picturesque Adirondacks, is famed for its breathtaking mountain vistas and was notably the host of the Winter Olympics in 1932 and 1980. In the winter, visitors can enjoy exceptional skiing and snowboarding, while summer offers fabulous opportunities for tubing and other water sports. For those with their own boats, multiple public launch points are available, and budget-conscious travelers can find affordable hostels or campgrounds nearby.

Lake Winnebago

Lake Winnebago, a glacial lake located in eastern Wisconsin, is known for its superb fishing experiences during both summer and winter. This lake is particularly famous for its ice fishing, and the most commonly caught fish include Walleye, Perch, Sturgeon, and Bass. Boaters can easily rent boats from nearby marinas, gaining access to over 18,000 acres of water, which includes Lake Butte des Morts and the Fox River.

Lake Winnepesaukee

In New Hampshire, Lake Winnepesaukee offers adventure seekers the chance to explore more than 250 islands, alongside hiking trips in the nearby White Mountains. The lake’s shores are lined with quaint villages that can be accessed by either boat or car, each exhibiting a unique charm. During the summer, rental boats are available for waterboarding, while winter provides options for snowboarding adventures. After a day of outdoor fun, visitors can relax at one of the many nearby breweries, like the Woodstock Inn Brewery in Woodstock.

Explore these stunning lakes and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty while engaging in thrilling recreational activities!