Whether you need to cool off in the summer, want to be awed by nature's beauty in the spring or fall, or want to test your skills at ice fishing in the winter, America's lakes offer year-round fun and relaxation. The nation is pockmarked by some of the most astounding waterfronts in the world, so a great lake is never more than a day trip away. Here are the best lakes to visit in the U.S.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake TahoeAleMoraes244 / Getty ImagesAlong the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe has long been a destination for folks from both states, and pretty much anyone within driving distance of the lake's stunning natural beauty. According to PlanetWare, it's the second-deepest lake in the U.S., with shockingly clear waters to boot. It's a bit chilly in the water, but the nearby hills offer plenty to do in the summer and winter.
Book your Lake Tahoe trip on Travelocity
Book your Lake Tahoe trip on Priceline
Lake Superior, Minnesota/Michigan/Wisconsin
Lake Superiornatem0001 / Getty ImagesYou could pick any of the Great Lakes for a weekend getaway and return smiling, tanned, and relaxed, but Lake Superior is our pick (and Travel and Leisure's pick) for the best of the bunch. Hike to check out the wildlife or kayak on the water before taking a well deserved nap on one of the lake's stunning beaches.
Book your Lake Superior trip on Travelocity
Book your Lake Superior trip on Priceline
Lake George, New York
Lake GeorgeMajicphotos / Getty ImagesThis upstate getaway hasn't lost a bit of its lustre since it was a playground for the ultrarich back at the turn of the 20th century. You can check out their aging estates on Millionaires' Row, or engage in more modern fun with watersports aplenty. Island hop among the lake's hundreds of little spits of land or just enjoy the beauty of the Adirondacks from the shore.
Book your Lake George trip on Travelocity
Book your Lake George trip on Priceline
Crater Lake, Oregon
Crater LakeElen11 / Getty ImagesWe've made clear our love of Oregon's Crater Lake before, recognizing it as one of the most beautiful places in the United States. America's deepest lake is set among the clouds on an ancient volcano, making it unlike any other camping destination you might come across.
Book your Crater Lake trip on Travelocity
Book your Crater Lake trip on Priceline
Lake Havasu, Arizona
Lake HavasuCheri Alguire / Getty ImagesKnown for its college-age party scene, palm tree-lined Lake Havasu can turn into a bit of a zoo around spring break, but if you're looking for a raucous good time on a party boat, look no further. Other times of year, the lake offers a more family-friendly retreat.
Book your Lake Havasu trip on Travelocity
Book your Lake Havasu trip on Priceline
Moosehead Lake, Maine
Moosehead Lake, Mainemountinez / Getty ImagesWe trust Martha Stewart to pick out an idyllic waterside spot in Maine. You'll share Moosehead, the state's largest lake, with plenty of salmon, beavers, deer, and moose, but there's enough striking Northeast beauty to go around. Stick around for fall to see the leaves change along the shore, or come during the winter to try your hand at ice fishing.
Book your Moosehead Lake trip on Travelocity
Book your Moosehead Lake trip on Priceline
Caddo Lake, Texas/Louisiana
Caddo LakeMSMcCarthy_Photography / Getty ImagesYou may believe you've entered another world as you paddle your boat through the sunken cypress trees and swampy marshes of Caddo Lake. Travel and Leisure points out the world-renowned wetland has been the site of many Bigfoot sightings. Another world may not be far off.
Book your Caddo Lake trip on Travelocity
Discover more travel content on Audacy
—The best small mountain towns to visit in the US
—The most beautiful campsites in the world
—The best Frank Lloyd Wright houses to visit in the US
—The best beaches to visit in the US in 2021
—The best islands to visit around the world in 2021
—The 8 most beautiful natural destinations in the US
—The best camping chairs on Amazon 2021
—4 apps that help you save money on gas
—11 travel accessories to keep you comfy and organized on your next trip
—The best camping tents you can buy in 2021
Audacy may earn commission for products purchased via affiliate links.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign Up and Follow Audacy
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
