From the tranquil shores of Maine to the majestic forests of Oregon, here is a list of some of the best lake vacations in America, ‘from sea to shining sea’.
Think of the sweet aroma of barbeque, peaceful silence when fishing, plunging into a sparkling blue lake, roasting marshmallows around a campfire and sleeping under the stars. Ah, the great outdoors. Lake vacations can create some of the fondest family memories, and stunning lakes can be found all over the country… so what are you waiting for? Here are ten of our favorite lake vacations in America.
1. Blue Lake, Colorado
Fantastic hiking with a refreshing alpine lake at the finish line, Brainard Lake Recreation Area is nestled into an ancient glacier-made valley that hosts a variety of year-round outdoor activities. Discover the extraordinary Indian Peaks Wilderness and if you’d like to extend your stay, check out the well-developed campsite at Pawnee Campground, which is open from July through early September.
2. Redfish Lake, Idaho
A wonderful family vacation destination at 6,550 feet above sea level, Redfish Lake Lodge offers stunning panoramic views. Idaho’s Redfish Lake is the vacation of a lifetime. Relax on the sandy beaches and take a daily revitalizing dip in the crystal clear water.
3. Lake Michigan, Illinois
In the State of Abraham Lincoln, the Great Lake Michigan has shores in the exciting city of Chicago. The lake also borders three other states, and depending on what side of the lake you are on, there are plenty of campgrounds and resorts to choose from. But if you happen to be in Chicago during the summer, you’ll find tons of fun water activities like jet-skiing, stand-up paddle boarding and cruises or you can just lounge in the sun on on Chicago’s sandy beaches.
4. Echo Lake, Maine
Echo Lake lies on the southern border of Acadia National Park, just south of Somerville. A particularly wonderful lake for children and the elderly, it’s maximum depth is 66 feet and it stays shallow for quite a distance off the shore. With great accessibility, a lifeguard on duty during the swimming season and lots of fun activities–such as hiking at the neighboring Beech Mountain for stunning lake views–Echo Lake.
5. Flathead Lake, Montana
White-water rafting, fishing, hiking, sailing, boat tours, swim-friendly beaches, playgrounds and much more, Flathead Lake is a nature lover’s paradise. Arrive from Lakeside, where you can get direct access to public boat docks, launches, picnic and swimming areas.
6. Lake George, New York
Nicknamed the Queen of the American Lakes, Lake George is a beautiful lake located southeast of the Adirondack Mountains. A four-hour drive north of New York City, this is a great pick for families as it has exhilarating kid-friendly activities such as Waterslideworld, mini golf, music in the park, The Great Escape & Splashwater Kingdom and much more.
7. Crater Lake, Oregon
Sitting in the remnants of an ancient volcano, Crater Lake National Park is a fascinating geological treasure. This great source of pride for Oregonians inspires awe in everyone who sees it. Explore the majestic Wizard Island sitting in the middle of the lake, once the top of a massive volcano, it now rests at 2,500 feet above the lake floor!
8. Lake Eden, Vermont
For a serene escape into the sweet embrace of Mother Nature, head to Lake Eden in Vermont this summer. About a two-hour drive from Montreal, Lake Eden provides an all-around wholesome family camping experience with playgrounds, kayaking, fishing and a summertime favorite; barbecuing. Due to its popularity, be sure to reserve your tent or RV sites in advance.
9. Diablo Lake, Washington
Despite its seemingly sinister name, Diablo Lake and its surroundings are actually quite…well, heavenly! Diablo Lake boasts incredibly vibrant blue water and is surrounded by mountains with hiking trails to stunning cliff top views and cascading waterfalls. Recommended for avid hikers, you can come all year long and hike a new trail every time.
10. Summersville Lake, West Virginia
From ‘glamping’ and fully equipped vacation cabins to good old-fashioned tent pitching, Summersville Lake provides the the ultimate lakeside camping vacation. You can also find some of the best whitewater rafting in West Virginia on the Gauley River. From beginners to experts, rafting can be a thrillingly memorable experience.