20 Best Lakes for a Summer Getaway in the U.S.

Summer heat calls for cool, refreshing escapes, and lakes offer the perfect solution for families and adventure seekers. These natural wonders provide everything from peaceful shorelines for relaxation to expansive waters for thrilling activities. The combination of stunning scenery, recreational opportunities, and accessibility makes lakes ideal destinations for memorable summer getaways.

Here is a list of the 20 best lakes for a summer getaway in the U.S., each offering unique experiences and natural beauty that can make your vacation unforgettable.

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Straddling the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe boasts crystal-clear waters surrounded by majestic Sierra Nevada mountains. During summer, water temperatures reach the mid-60s, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking along the 72 miles of shoreline.

The surrounding area offers exceptional hiking trails with panoramic views, showcasing why Mark Twain called it “the fairest picture the whole earth affords.”

Crater Lake, Oregon

Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, at 1,943 feet. Its stunning sapphire waters reflect its volcanic origins within a collapsed caldera. The lake’s remarkable clarity allows visibility down to 100 feet, creating an almost surreal swimming experience for those brave enough to handle the chilly temperatures.

Rim Drive offers 33 miles of scenic viewpoints where visitors can marvel at this natural wonder formed nearly 7,700 years ago.

Lake Powell, Arizona/Utah

This massive reservoir on the Colorado River stretches across 186 miles of stunning red rock landscape. Houseboating remains the quintessential Lake Powell experience, allowing families to explore countless hidden canyons and beaches at their own pace.

The contrast between the bright blue water and the surrounding sandstone formations creates a photographer’s paradise unlike anywhere else in America.

Lake George, New York

Nicknamed the ‘Queen of American Lakes,’ this Adirondack gem extends 32 miles with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and boating. The surrounding mountains provide a stunning backdrop for water activities, while the charming town of Lake George offers family-friendly attractions, including miniature golf and ice cream shops.

Summer evenings come alive with outdoor concerts and lakeside dining that capture the essence of northeastern summer traditions.

Lake Chelan, Washington

Nestled in the North Cascades, this 55-mile-long glacier-fed lake reaches depths of 1,486 feet. The southern end bustles with wineries and water recreation, while the remote northern reaches provide access to the spectacular Stehekin Valley, accessible only by boat or floatplane.

Visitors consistently rate the water quality among the cleanest in the nation, making it ideal for swimming even during peak summer months.

Flathead Lake, Montana

As the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, Flathead Lake encompasses 200 square miles of pristine waters. The lake’s remarkable clarity comes from glacier runoff, creating perfect conditions for spotting fish swimming beneath your boat or paddleboard.

Wild Horse Island, the largest of the lake’s islands, offers hiking trails and the chance to spot wild horses, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Lake Michigan, Michigan

This Great Lake offers 1,640 miles of shoreline with sugar-sand beaches that rival any ocean destination. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore features massive dunes rising 450 feet above the water, providing challenging climbs and spectacular views.

Charming lakeside towns like Traverse City and Saugatuck offer exceptional dining, shopping, and cultural experiences that complement the natural beauty.

Lake Champlain, Vermont/New York

Stretching 120 miles between the Green Mountains of Vermont and the Adirondacks of New York, Lake Champlain combines natural splendor with rich history. The lake’s 80+ islands provide endless exploration opportunities, while the surrounding bike paths offer miles of scenic riding for all skill levels.

Burlington’s waterfront buzzes with activity during summer months, featuring festivals, farmers markets, and sunset cruises.

Priest Lake, Idaho

Nicknamed the ‘Crown Jewel’ of Idaho, this remote mountain lake sits against the backdrop of the Selkirk Mountains near the Canadian border. The crystal-clear waters maintain visibility to depths of 25 feet, allowing glimpses of the lake’s thriving fish population.

Eight state park campgrounds provide access to sandy beaches and hiking trails through old-growth cedar forests that transport visitors back in time.

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

With 1,150 miles of shoreline—more than the coast of California—this massive reservoir offers endless coves and inlets to explore. The lake’s reputation for excellent fishing attracts anglers seeking bass, catfish, and crappie in its nutrient-rich waters.

Entertainment options abound with waterfront restaurants, mini-golf courses, and water parks, making it ideal for families seeking relaxation and excitement.

Deep Creek Lake, Maryland

As Maryland’s largest freshwater lake, Deep Creek offers 3,900 acres of water and 69 miles of shoreline in the Allegheny Mountains. Summer water temperatures reach the mid-70s, creating perfect conditions for swimming, water skiing, and wakeboarding.

The surrounding state parks provide miles of hiking and mountain biking trails through lush forests teeming with wildlife.

Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s largest lake features crystal-clear waters dotted with 274 islands and surrounded by three mountain ranges. The 240 miles of shoreline include numerous public beaches and boat launches, making the water accessible for everyone.

Charming lakeside towns like Wolfeboro (America’s oldest summer resort town) and Meredith offer quintessential New England atmosphere with ice cream parlors, country stores, and waterfront dining.

Shasta Lake, California

With 365 miles of shoreline surrounded by the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, this northern California reservoir offers countless secluded coves and beaches. Houseboating remains the preferred way to experience the lake, allowing families to create mobile base camps for swimming, fishing, and exploring.

Mount Shasta’s snow-capped peak provides a stunning backdrop that changes color throughout the day as sunlight shifts across the landscape.

Lake Havasu, Arizona

Famous for housing the relocated London Bridge, Lake Havasu combines desert beauty with refreshing blue waters. The lake’s consistent summer temperatures in the 80s make it perfect for swimming, while the surrounding canyon walls create exciting exploration opportunities.

The Bridgewater Channel transforms into a social hotspot on summer weekends, with boaters gathering to enjoy music and sunshine in this desert oasis.

Finger Lakes, New York

Ancient glaciers formed this collection of 11 long, narrow lakes, now serving as the centerpiece of New York’s premier wine country. Each lake offers its character, from Keuka’s distinctive Y-shape to Seneca’s remarkable depth of 618 feet.

Waterfalls cascade down the slopes surrounding the lakes, creating spectacular swimming spots like Buttermilk Falls and Robert H. Treman State Park.

Lake Santeetlah, North Carolina

Surrounded almost entirely by Nantahala National Forest, this mountain lake’s 76 miles of shoreline remain 80% undeveloped. The resulting pristine environment offers exceptionally clean waters and abundant wildlife sightings, including eagles and otters.

The lake’s 1,940 feet elevation provides natural air conditioning, with summer temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby lowland areas.

Bear Lake, Utah/Idaho

Known as the ‘Caribbean of the Rockies’ for its striking turquoise waters, Bear Lake straddles the Utah-Idaho border. The lake’s unique color comes from suspended calcium carbonate particles that reflect blue-green light wavelengths.

Local raspberry farms produce famous shakes and treats that have become symbolic of summer visits to the lake’s 48 miles of shoreline.

Lake Cumberland, Kentucky

With a shoreline stretching 1,255 miles, Lake Cumberland offers more coastline than Florida. The lake’s numerous coves and inlets provide natural privacy, explaining why it’s considered the houseboating capital of the South.

Water depths averaging 90 feet create perfect conditions for maintaining consistent temperatures into the fall season.

Lake Oconee, Georgia

Located just 75 miles from Atlanta, this 19,000-acre reservoir offers a convenient escape from city life. Five award-winning golf courses border the shoreline, while the lake provides excellent fishing for bass, catfish, and crappie.

Sunset boat tours showcase spectacular evening colors reflecting off the water, while luxury resorts like The Ritz-Carlton provide upscale accommodations for those seeking pampering alongside their lake experience.

Lake Superior, Michigan/Minnesota/Wisconsin

As the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area, Lake Superior lives up to its name with awe-inspiring vastness and pristine waters. The lake’s southern shoreline features dramatic sandstone cliffs, sea caves, and pristine beaches along the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Water temperatures remain refreshingly cool even in midsummer, creating the perfect escape during heat waves while the surrounding forests provide miles of hiking trails through unspoiled wilderness.

Summer Memories Made by the Water

These twenty lakes represent America’s incredible diversity of waterscapes—from desert reservoirs to mountain-ringed glacial waters. What unites them all is their ability to create lasting memories through the simple joys of swimming in clean waters, gathering for sunset picnics, and disconnecting from digital distractions.

The tradition of lake vacations continues to thrive because these natural treasures provide the perfect backdrop for connecting with nature and loved ones in profoundly meaningful ways.