The best U.S. lakes to visit for boating, swimming, & relaxing!

When people talk about their favorite vacation spots, beaches usually steal the spotlight. But as someone who lives far from the ocean, I really appreciate the beauty and the joy of a great lake vacation. So let’s dive into 14 stunning lake destinations across the U.S. that deliver all the water fun and relaxation you’re craving, no ocean required. I’ve grouped them by the type of experience they offer, and included a suggestion for where you could stay to enjoy the great outdoors.

Quiet escapes & pine-scented peace

Lake Crescent, Washington

Tucked deep in Olympic National Park, Lake Crescent is a glacier-carved lake with sapphire-blue water and towering evergreens all around. It's quiet, unspoiled, and has zero cell signal—perfect for digital detoxing and breathing in fresh cedar-scented air.

Stay: Lake Crescent Lodge (seasonal) offers 1915-era charm, lakefront views, and cozy cabins right on the water’s edge.

Flathead Lake, Montana

This massive lake sits at the base of the Rockies and is so clear, you’ll swear you’re in alpine Switzerland. It’s surrounded by cherry orchards, charming towns (like Bigfork), and the chance to spot wild horses on—you guessed it—Wild Horse Island.

Stay: The Islander Inn in Woods Bay is casual, clean, and walking distance to a tiki bar (yes, really). Or go upscale with Flathead Lake Lodge for a luxe ranch experience.

Jenny Lake, Wyoming (Grand Teton National Park)

Nestled at the base of the Tetons, Jenny Lake is jaw-droppingly beautiful—with crystal-clear water, rugged mountain backdrops, and scenic trails right from the shoreline. You can hike to waterfalls, paddle quietly across the lake, or just sit on a boulder and let the view do its thing.

Stay: Jenny Lake Lodge for upscale rustic cabins inside the park and quick access to the lake. For a more budget-friendly option, nearby Colter Bay Village offers cabins and tent cabins with full park vibes.

Classic summer lake trips

Lake Almanor, California

Tucked in Northern California’s Sierra Nevada, Lake Almanor is a quieter alternative to Tahoe, with 52 miles of shoreline. Perfect for fishing, kayaking, and watching the sun set over Mount Lassen. It’s cabin-friendly and family-approved.

Stay: Lake Almanor Lodge for cozy rooms, or check VRBO for lakefront cabins with docks and fireplaces.

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

Winding like a watery maze through central Missouri, this is prime lake culture: tubing, pontoon parties, BBQ on the deck, and firefly-lit nights. It’s lively, laid-back, and made for multi-gen trips.

Stay: Margaritaville Lake Resort offers fun for all ages—think pool bars, mini golf, and a marina. Tons of vacation rentals, too.

Big Bear Lake, California

Surrounded by San Bernardino’s pine-covered peaks, Big Bear’s altitude makes it a year-round draw—boating and fishing in summer, skiing and snowshoeing in winter. The town has a throwback ski-lodge feel.

Stay: Bluegreen’s The Club at Big Bear Village for full-service condos, or Pine Knot Guest Ranch for rustic cabin coziness.

Slow mornings, soft landings

Lake Tahoe (North Shore), California/Nevada

The North Shore skips the casinos and leans into tranquility: think sunrise paddleboarding, forest hikes, and sunset dinners overlooking cobalt-blue water.

Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe for spa time and ski-in access. Want quiet? Try Cedar Glen Lodge, a sweet eco-resort with lake views and an intimate feel.

Keuka Lake (Finger Lakes), New York

Shaped like a Y and known for its peaceful, glassy water, Keuka is perfect for paddleboarding, lakeside strolls, and small-town charm. The surrounding area is full of local farms, cozy cafés, and roadside markets, making it an ideal place to slow down and savor simple pleasures.📍Stay: Esperanza Mansion for historic architecture and panoramic lake views, or The Lake House on Canandaigua for a modern, upscale lakeside experience just a short drive away.

Lake Powell, Utah/Arizona

A high-desert wonderland where red rock canyons meet turquoise water. Lake Powell is made for houseboating, paddling into hidden coves, and spending your days jumping off the back deck into glassy water.

Stay: Lake Powell Resort in Page, Arizona, near Wahweap Marina for comfort and convenience, or go big with a houseboat rental for your own floating adventure basecamp.

Wild water, wide skies, & a little grit

Lake Ouachita, Arkansas

Completely surrounded by national forest, this is one of the cleanest lakes in the U.S. It's a hot spot for kayaking, snorkeling, and reeling in trophy bass—plus you’re close to the spa town of Hot Springs.

Stay: Mountain Harbor Resort and Spa offers cabins, lake view lodges, a marina, and on-site spa.

Lake Guntersville, Alabama

A fishing haven with southern charm and beautiful surrounding forest. Anglers love it, but there's also hiking, bald eagle spotting, and lazy boating to fill your days.

Stay: Lake Guntersville State Park Lodge has rooms, cabins, and killer sunrise views. The park is gorgeous and well-run.

Bear Lake: a family favorite!

Bear Lake, Utah/Idaho

Called the “Caribbean of the Rockies” for its brilliant turquoise color, Bear Lake sits on the Utah-Idaho border. It’s all about swimming, boating, raspberry shakes from local stands, and wide-open skies.

Stay: Conestoga Ranch in Garden City offers upscale glamping in luxury wagons and tents. Or rent a house with lake access for the full summer-lake-trip vibe.

Lake Havasu, Arizona

Bright blue water, red rock backdrops, and over 300 days of sunshine a year make Lake Havasu a magnet for water lovers. It’s perfect for boating, jet skiing, beach days, and watching the sunset behind the London Bridge (yep—the real one).

Stay: The Nautical Beachfront Resort for direct lake access and great views, or choose a house rental with a private dock if you’re bringing your own boat.

Lakeside charm & low-key vibes

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

A Midwestern treasure with a long legacy of Gilded Age lake homes, boat tours, boutiques, and ice cream on the pier. Easily walkable and full of small-town charm.

Stay: The Abbey Resort on nearby Fontana Bay is family-friendly and full-service. Maxwell Mansion in Lake Geneva itself is chic, vintage, and walkable to downtown.

Traverse City &  Torch Lake, Michigan

Traverse City is all about craft food, cherry drinks, and cute bookstores. Torch Lake, just a short drive away, has Caribbean-blue water and is ideal for floating the day away on a pontoon.

Stay: Hotel Indigo in Traverse City is trendy and central. For lakefront charm, check out The Inn at Torch Lake.

A bonus Montana river:

Missouri River near Craig, Montana

Not a lake, but if you’re into blue-ribbon fly fishing, epic float trips, and quiet riverside cabins, this one hits the spot. Craig is tiny, charming, and known as a fly fishing mecca. I’m not a fly fisherwoman, but I grew up fishing in Montana rivers & streams with my dad & grandpa, so I have great memories of the beautiful Montana scenery and fishing opportunities.S

Stay at: Missouri River Ranch for a boutique fishing lodge experience, or rent a cabin through local outfitters who can also arrange guided floats.

Whether you’re craving campfire vibes and quiet mornings or lakefront resorts with just the right amount of action, the perfect lake vacation is waiting—and I can help you get there. Sometimes a lake vacation is just what the summer needs. Let me know what you’re hoping for, & I’ll help you get there!