Have you heard about these stunning lakes?
With so many amazing lakes across the entire country, it’s impossible not to find something that you love! Plus, if you want a getaway, there is nothing like a lake vacation to charge your batteries.
Lakeside getaways are the ideal way to indulge in the great outdoors and relax in the presence of nature because they provide a variety of amenities, from scenic hiking trails and beautiful views to sandy beaches and cozy vacation rentals. These are our top choices for the eight best lake vacation spots in the United States, whether you’re looking for a family getaway or a cozy romantic getaway now that you’re both retired.
1. Finger Lakes, New York
Do you love high-quality wine? If so, make sure you include the Finger Lakes on your vacation destination list. Some of the best wine tasting sessions are a must for this experience to be complete. Additionally, you can take advantage of the chance to visit some of the finest hard cider, breweries, and distilleries in the nation, which are all close by. Wow!
If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation spot with not only beautiful scenery but also the ideal location for foodies seeking out the finest culinary experiences, then look no further. Are you ready to pack your bags?
2. Lake George, New York
New York is definitely more than just humongous buildings and urban life. It’s also about beautiful landscapes and places where you can go for a vacation on a budget. Many of the original waterfront stone palaces built by the Gilded Age robber barons still stand along the 10-mile stretch known as Millionaires’ Row. The so-called “Queen of American Lakes” served as their playground.
The Sagamore Resort, which opened its doors to visitors in the 1880s, is still open today. At the Narrows, the lake is constrained by the southern Adirondacks into a narrow swath that is dotted with islets of all sizes. Last time I visited New York, I was only in the city because I was visiting a friend, but I promised myself next time I would definitely explore the outside of it!
3. Echo Lake, New Hampshire
If you love long walks and hiking, then you’re good to go to Echo Lake in New Hampshire. Another destination that’s been on my list for years but I haven’t visited yet! May the odds be in our favor to do this in 2023. In my case, whenever I go on vacation, I look forward to relaxing and taking pictures of the surroundings. To celebrate your retirement accordingly, I suggest you try this piece of heaven.
Echo Lake, which is 16 acres in size, is located in the southeast portion of the White Mountain National Forest and is shaded by Whitehorse Ledge. Popular rock climbing locations include Whitehorse and the close-by 700-foot cliffs of Cathedral Ledge; both award hikers with breathtaking views of Echo Lake and the far-off mountains. Are you addicted to autumn? So put off your trip and take advantage of a lovely stay in this region in the fall, when the foliage adds to Echo Lake’s beauty.
Hey, and if you’re in for a road trip, then you will definitely find this map handy! Check it out.
4. Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, Alaska
One of the best lakes on our list is Lake Clark, a super destination to which you can travel both by plane and boat. Is probably one of the best-preserved areas in the entire country. In this region, you will also find the best gift nature gave us: another lake called Crescent Lake. This destination is perfect for all the amateur photographers or people who simply want a relaxation spot away from the crowded and dusty cities.
Located in the Chigmit Mountains, this unbelievably beautiful lake offers a lot of fishing opportunities for all the fishing enthusiasts, but also for those who want to try something new. However, before doing that, you should definitely ask the park ranger if it’s allowed to be done because apparently, in certain months of the year, fishing is forbidden in this area.
5. Lake Havasu City, Arizona
One of my favorite lakes on our bucket list is Lake Havasu! The most beautiful lake in Arizona is Lake Havasu City. This exceptional lakeside location receives more than 1 million visitors a year and boasts 400 miles of river coastline, 300 days of sunshine, and 60 miles of clear navigable waterways. When looking for a vacation destination, if you’re looking for variety as well, you should know that Lake Havasu includes white sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and of course some rocky mountains to finish the picture.
Since there are so many things to do here, including swimming, canoeing, fishing, and even hiking, you won’t ever get bored. Isn’t this fantastic? If this place wasn’t already on your travel bucket list, after reading this article, it most certainly will be.
6. Lake Santeetlah, North Carolina
Are you looking for a tranquil oasis? The 76-mile-long forested coastline of Lake Santeetlah, which is located deep within the Nantahala National Forest and encircled by the Great Smoky Mountains, is almost entirely shielded from civilization. You will definitely be rather mesmerized than bored in this destination because, besides the fantastic view, you can also relax by paddling a canoe or a kayak, laying on the beach for a sunbath, or, if neither of these two sound appealing to you, you can go fishing.
This artificial lake, which is almost 3,000 acres, was created in 1928 when the Cheoah River was dammed. It is still incredibly natural. However, you may want to be careful and watch out for bald eagles, raptors, beavers, and otters.
7. Lake Chelan, Washington
If you live in the Washington area, you undoubtedly already know about and adore this place. And if you’re not, then get ready to be in tourist mode by visiting this amazing place this summer. Lake Chelan is a breathtaking site and is situated in north-central Washington state. Visitors are drawn to this 50.5-mile-long, glacier-fed lake because of its diverse encounters as well as its scenic natural beauty and surroundings of vineyards and rugged mountains. The region has something thrilling to offer everyone, including jet skiing, mountain biking, and wine tasting.
The lake, which is located in Chelan County, serves as a gateway to the North Cascades National Park, which safeguards vast wilderness regions, national forests, and the largest glacial system in the whole of the United States.
8. Lake Tahoe, California
Are you looking for a full-blown alpine experience? Then pack your bags and get ready for the best adventure of your life because one of the most beautiful American lakes awaits you. The mighty Lake Tahoe, North America’s biggest alpine lake, is situated on the California-Nevada border. It is surrounded by towering mountain peaks and steep granite cliff sides.
Its shimmering turquoise waters are ideal for engaging in a variety of water activities, including world-class swimming, boating, and fishing. This lake now attracts nearly 2.7 million visitors a year as a result of its enormously gorgeous surroundings.
Which one of these lakes is your favorite? Tell us in the comments if you’re already planning on visiting at least two this summer. And until next time, don’t forget to check out other articles on our page. One of my favorites is one written by one of my colleagues, Ricarda: 7 Hidden Beaches Around the US to Escape the Crowds.
