Boating Lakes in the USA

Location:

Downtown Austin, Texas

Highlights:

Want to experience nature without leaving the city? Lady Bird Lake offers a scenic, activity-filled retreat right in the heart of Austin, with skyline views, paddle-friendly waters, and a lakeside trail that’s a local favorite for walking and biking.

Recommended For:

Paddleboarders, kayakers, joggers, cyclists, anglers, and anyone looking to relax or recreate just steps from downtown Austin.

What we Love:

Car-free trails, electric-boat-only waters, plenty of rental options, and a perfect blend of nature and cityscape—Lady Bird Lake is a signature Austin experience.

• Paddle the calm waters in a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard—rental stations are located all around the lake.
• Fish for bass, catfish, and even pike—Lady Bird Lake is stocked and popular with local anglers.
• Stroll or bike the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, which wraps around the lake for nearly 10 miles and offers unbeatable skyline and riverfront views.
• Relax at lakeside parks like Zilker Park or Auditorium Shores, which are great for picnics, festivals, and people-watching.

Cost:

Lake access is free; watercraft rentals typically range from $15–$30/hour depending on the type.

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for the most comfortable weather; summer mornings for the best paddling conditions.

Local tips:

Electric motors must be under 5 horsepower. Early mornings offer the quietest waters and best birdwatching. Parking can be tight—consider walking or biking in.

Distance:

Located directly in downtown Austin, TX.

How to Get to Lady Bird Lake:

Access points are available throughout downtown, including at Zilker Park, Festival Beach, and near South Congress Avenue. Paid parking is available at several trailheads and public garages.

Address:

Lady Bird Lake, Austin, TX

Location:

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho – at the foot of the Rocky Mountains

Highlights:

Looking for a classic alpine lake experience? Lake Coeur d’Alene is a glacially formed treasure stretching over 30,000 acres, offering everything from fishing and boating to golfing and scuba diving—all surrounded by forested hills and a vibrant lakeside town.

Recommended For:

Anglers, boaters, families, divers, hikers, and travelers looking for a full-service lake with mountain charm and year-round adventure.

What we Love:

Chinook and kokanee salmon runs, the cool mountain water, scenic hiking trails, and even sunken vintage cars waiting to be discovered by scuba divers.

• Fish from docks, boats, or by wading in to catch rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, kokanee, and chinook salmon—especially popular in the early morning hours.
• Explore the lake on a cruise boat tour or dive deep to see submerged relics like Ford Model Ts.
• Hike the surrounding trails or enjoy golfing, camping, and swimming at one of the many access points and resorts around the lake.
• Enjoy nearby Coeur d’Alene's charming town center with great dining, shops, and easy lakefront access.

Cost:

Free public access at parks and beaches; fishing licenses required; tour and rental costs vary by provider.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for lake activities; winter for snow-dusted lakeside hikes and peaceful scenery.

Local tips:

Sunrise is prime time for fishing, and Tubbs Hill is a must-hike for panoramic lake views. Don’t miss seasonal cruise tours or scuba expeditions if you’re certified.

Distance:

Downtown Coeur d’Alene is just 40 minutes from Spokane, WA.

How to Get to Lake Coeur d’Alene:

Take I-90 to Coeur d’Alene, ID. From there, access the lake via Sherman Avenue, McEuen Park, or head south along the scenic byways for quieter spots and trailheads.

Address:

Lake Coeur d'Alene, Kootenai County, ID

Romantic Lakes

Location:

Lake Placid, Essex County, New York – in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains

Highlights:

Want to experience a mountain lake that blends Olympic history, rustic charm, and untouched beauty? Lake Placid is your go-to. Surrounded by towering pines and mirrored peaks, this alpine lake is ideal for boating, fishing, camping, and relaxing scenic cruises.

Recommended For:

Boaters, anglers, campers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a classic Adirondack escape with a mix of solitude and history.

What we Love:

Island picnicking and camping, stunning Adirondack vistas, and the ability to explore by kayak, canoe, or guided lake cruise—there’s something magical and timeless about Lake Placid.

• Boat across the pristine water or rent a kayak or canoe if you don’t have your own—launches and rentals are easy to find near town.
• Camp or picnic on one of the two islands in the center of the lake, both beloved by boaters and day-trippers.
• Fish for trout, perch, smallmouth bass, and pike—fishing from shore, boat, or dock is all popular here.
• Relax on a scenic cruise and learn the history and geography of the lake with guided narration and breathtaking mountain views.

Cost:

Lake access is free; boat, kayak, and canoe rentals vary by provider; cruise tickets typically start around $20–$30 per person.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for boating and camping; fall offers colorful foliage and crisp mountain air.

Local tips:

Arrive early for island access, especially on summer weekends. Lake Placid village has great spots to grab food or gear before hitting the water.

Distance:

About 2 hours from Albany, NY; 2.5 hours from Montreal, QC.

How to Get to Lake Placid:

Take I-87 North to Exit 30, then follow NY-73 toward Lake Placid. Public boat launches and rental shops are located near Mirror Lake Drive and the Lake Placid Marina.

Address:

Lake Placid, Adirondack Mountains, NY

Location:

Lake Charles, Louisiana – adjacent to the city of Lake Charles

Highlights:

Looking for a lake where southern charm meets lively entertainment? Lake Charles is your spot. With bayous, festivals, casino resorts, and great fishing in brackish waters, this lake-city combo delivers fun on and off the water year-round.

Recommended For:

Anglers, boaters, festival-goers, families, and travelers seeking a unique Louisiana lakeside experience with culture, nightlife, and natural beauty.

What we Love:

The city-lake connection—where you can paddle by day and hit a music festival or casino by night. Plus, the diverse fishery and bayou charm make every outing feel like an adventure.

• Fish for hardhead catfish, speckled trout, redfish, and flounder—great for both novice and seasoned anglers in brackish conditions.
• Boat with friends or join a guided charter for a scenic day out on the lake or through nearby bayous and estuaries.
• Explore via kayak or canoe for a quieter ride through the city’s interconnected waterways and wildlife-rich edges.
• Enjoy over 75 annual festivals, casino entertainment, local seafood, and cultural activities all within minutes of the water.

Cost:

Public lake access is free; charter and boat rental prices vary. Festival and event fees vary by season and venue.

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for festivals and ideal weather; summer for boating and water fun; winter offers mild temperatures and quieter waterfront experiences.

Local tips:

Check tide levels before fishing or boating. Pair your lake day with a night out in Lake Charles for a full local experience—food, music, and all.

Distance:

2 hours from Baton Rouge; 2.5 hours from Houston, TX.

How to Get to Lake Charles:

Take I-10 to Lake Charles, LA. The lake is accessible from downtown, with boat ramps, parks, and rental facilities located throughout the waterfront area.

Address:

Lake Charles, Louisiana

Lakes for Families

Location:

Just south of Saratoga Springs, New York

Highlights:

Looking for a lake with great swimming, live music, and iconic upstate New York beauty? Saratoga Lake may not be the biggest, but it’s packed with charm. From boating and fishing to floating concerts and fiery fall foliage, this lake offers something in every season.

Recommended For:

Boaters, swimmers, anglers, fall foliage fans, and visitors who want a mix of lakeside fun and local events.

What we Love:

The central sandbar for summer swims, the floating stage for concerts, and unbeatable leaf-peeping during the crisp and colorful fall season.

• Anchor at the lake’s popular sandbar—ideal for mid-lake swims, sunbathing, or floating with friends on a hot summer day.
• Fish for largemouth bass, walleye, northern pike, and panfish—Saratoga Lake is a favorite for local anglers.
• Enjoy live music on the lake’s floating stage—check the seasonal calendar for concerts and special events on the water.
• Experience vibrant fall foliage from the shoreline or a boat—this is one of the best times to take in Saratoga Lake’s natural splendor.

Cost:

Public access is free at select boat launches and parks; boat rentals and event entry fees vary by provider.

Best time to visit:

Summer for swimming, boating, and events; fall for foliage, quiet fishing, and local charm.

Local tips:

Arrive early on weekends for sandbar space and marina access. Pack layers if visiting in fall—crisp mornings give way to sunny afternoons.

Distance:

10 minutes from downtown Saratoga Springs; about 45 minutes from Albany, NY.

How to Get to Saratoga Lake:

Take I-87 to Exit 14 toward Saratoga Springs. Follow Route 9P east to reach boat launches, rental locations, and lakeside parks.

Address:

Saratoga Lake, Saratoga County, NY

Location:

Rogers, Arkansas – nestled in the Ozark Mountains

Highlights:

Want to experience limestone cliffs, deep blue waters, and hidden caves—all in one trip? Beaver Lake is an Arkansas gem created by the Beaver Dam, offering incredible clarity, great fishing, and a unique blend of natural and man-made beauty.

Recommended For:

Boaters, anglers, scuba divers, campers, and travelers who love lakes with rugged scenery and crystal-clear water.

What we Love:

Steep limestone cliffs, secluded coves, underwater exploration, and water so clean it supplies drinking water to five counties—Beaver Lake is a serene and scenic retreat with layers of adventure.

• Fish for bass, trout, stripers, and catfish—Beaver Lake is a well-stocked fishing paradise with deep waters and hidden coves.
• Boat across over 28,000 acres of water, or find a quiet spot to paddle, picnic, or drop anchor near limestone bluffs.
• Dive into the lake’s submerged features and caves—scuba divers love the lake’s excellent visibility and underwater formations.
• Explore the shoreline's hiking trails, camping areas, and scenic overlooks throughout the Ozark Highlands.

Cost:

Free lake access at many public ramps and parks; camping, marina, and dive tours vary in cost by location.

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for hiking and mild weather; summer for boating, diving, and swimming.

Local tips:

Scuba diving requires certification, and local dive shops offer guided trips. For a great photo op, visit the bluffs at sunset or paddle into one of the lake’s many natural caves.

Distance:

15 minutes from downtown Rogers, AR; 45 minutes from Fayetteville, AR.

How to Get to Beaver Lake:

Take US-62 or AR-12 East from Rogers to access multiple marinas and lake entrances. Hobbs State Park and Prairie Creek Recreation Area are two popular gateways to the lake.

Address:

Beaver Lake, Rogers, Arkansas

Lakes For Photographers

Location:

San Bernardino National Forest – about 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles, CA

Highlights:

Need to breathe in some mountain air and leave the LA buzz behind? Big Bear Lake is your high-altitude haven with cool waters, 22 miles of shoreline, and unbeatable views of the surrounding forest and peaks. Whether you're casting a line or kayaking beneath the pines, it’s a peaceful, invigorating getaway.

Recommended For:

Anglers, boaters, swimmers, hikers, weekenders from LA, and anyone craving a mountain retreat close to the city.

What we Love:

Fresh mountain air, glassy lake mornings, and the serene silence of pine forests—all just a couple hours from the city. Plus, excellent trout fishing and lakefront activities all year long.

• Fish for rainbow trout, largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, and more—Big Bear Lake is well stocked and beloved by anglers.
• Swim or paddle in the lake’s cool, clear water, surrounded by views of the forested San Bernardino Mountains.
• Hike nearby trails or picnic along the shoreline—Big Bear Lake is ideal for both active adventures and quiet relaxation.
• Escape the city for a weekend of lakefront cabins, wildlife watching, and peaceful evenings under the stars.

Cost:

Public lake access is free; marina, boat rentals, and fishing licenses are available at varying rates.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for water sports and fishing; winter brings snowy mountain charm and nearby ski resorts.

Local tips:

Book cabins early for summer weekends. The Alpine Pedal Path is a great option for lakeside biking and family-friendly walks.

Distance:

Approx. 2 to 2.5 hours from Los Angeles, depending on traffic and route.

How to Get to Big Bear Lake:

From Los Angeles, take I-210 E to CA-330 N, which leads into the San Bernardino Mountains and connects with CA-18 into Big Bear Lake village and lakeshore access points.

Address:

Big Bear Lake, San Bernardino County, CA

Location:

Straddling the Texas–Louisiana border

Highlights:

Want to explore one of the most unique and mystical lakes in the U.S.? Caddo Lake is a paddler’s dream, filled with bald cypress trees growing straight from the water, winding bayous, and quiet backwater channels. It’s part southern swamp, part open lake, and 100% unforgettable.

Recommended For:

Kayakers, canoeists, photographers, boaters, wildlife watchers, and anyone craving a tranquil and totally different kind of lake adventure.

What we Love:

The atmosphere—ancient trees, mirror-still water, and tangled water trails that feel like you’ve entered a fairytale. Plus, warm weather makes it accessible nearly year-round.

• Paddle through the maze of waterways, bayous, and cypress groves, especially on the more swampy and scenic Texas side of the lake.
• Boat more freely in the open Louisiana section—perfect for those who want to explore wider expanses without navigating narrow channels.
• Fish for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish—Caddo Lake is one of the few natural lakes in Texas and is known for excellent angling.
• Photograph the hanging moss, tree reflections, and golden light filtering through the wetlands—it’s a dreamscape for nature lovers and creatives.

Cost:

Lake access is generally free; canoe/kayak rentals, boat tours, and camping fees vary by location and provider.

Best time to visit:

Fall through spring for cooler temperatures and bird activity; summer is beautiful but hot—bring water and sunscreen!

Local tips:

Stick to marked trails when paddling—it's easy to get turned around. Early mornings are best for both wildlife spotting and avoiding the heat.

Distance:

Approx. 45 minutes from Shreveport, LA; about 3 hours from Dallas, TX.

How to Get to Caddo Lake:

From Texas: head to Uncertain, TX via TX-43. From Louisiana: access the lake via Mooringsport or Caddo Lake State Wildlife Management Area. Multiple boat ramps and launch points are available on both sides.

Address:

Caddo Lake, Texas & Louisiana

Lakes for Hikers

Location:

Crater Lake National Park, southern Oregon – about 100 miles from the Pacific Ocean

Highlights:

Want to stand at the edge of one of the world’s deepest and most dazzling lakes? Crater Lake offers unmatched views, impossibly blue waters, and a sense of stillness that comes from being surrounded by ancient volcanic peaks at the heart of Oregon’s only national park.

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, hikers, campers, landscape photographers, and travelers looking for breathtaking views, crystal-clear water, and a geologic marvel.

What we Love:

Nearly 2,000 feet deep and filled with sapphire-colored snowmelt, Crater Lake is otherworldly. It’s a bucket-list destination offering dramatic rim hikes, serene boat rides, and the quiet majesty of an ancient caldera lake.

• See the deepest lake in the U.S.—Crater Lake reaches depths of nearly 1,950 feet and is among the top 10 deepest freshwater lakes on Earth.
• Hike along rim trails with panoramic views or descend to the lake via the Cleetwood Cove Trail, the only legal lake access point for swimming and fishing.
• Fish for rainbow trout and kokanee salmon—no license required inside the park boundaries.
• Camp or stay at Crater Lake Lodge, and stargaze at night in one of the darkest skies in the Pacific Northwest.

Cost:

$30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass to Crater Lake National Park; camping and lodge fees vary by season.

Best time to visit:

July through September for full access to the rim drive, boat tours, and hiking trails; winter offers snowshoeing and quiet solitude but limited lake access.

Local tips:

Snow lingers late into summer—check trail and road conditions before visiting. For a unique view, take the boat tour to Wizard Island (reservations recommended).

Distance:

About 2 hours from Medford, OR; 4.5 hours from Portland, OR.

How to Get to Crater Lake:

From Medford or Klamath Falls, follow OR-62 to Crater Lake National Park. The Rim Drive encircles the lake and offers multiple pullouts, trailheads, and overlooks.

Address:

Crater Lake, Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Location:

Northwestern Montana – south of Kalispell and Glacier National Park

Highlights:

Craving expansive mountain views, deep glacial waters, and a splash of mystery? Flathead Lake is a massive natural playground with more than 160 miles of shoreline, 25 species of fish, and maybe even a resident lake monster. It’s wild, beautiful, and full of unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Recommended For:

Anglers, hikers, boaters, nature lovers, and those intrigued by folklore and stunning alpine scenery.

What we Love:

Glacially carved and incredibly vast, Flathead Lake offers pristine waters, quiet coves, and panoramic views—plus just enough mystery to keep things fun, thanks to whispers of the “Flathead Nessie.”

• Fish for mackinaw, bull trout, sculpin, and yellow perch—this is a top destination for anglers thanks to its depth and diversity of fish.
• Boat or paddle across over 122,500 acres of water, with endless opportunities for sailing, kayaking, or powerboating.
• Hike the surrounding trails in the Mission and Swan mountain ranges—many routes offer sweeping lake overlooks.
• Search for the mythical “Flathead Nessie,” rumored to surface from time to time—bring your camera just in case!

Cost:

Public access is free at many parks and boat ramps; fishing licenses required and available online or locally.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for warm-weather recreation and clear skies; fall brings vibrant colors and fewer crowds.

Local tips:

Watch for cherry stands along the lake’s east shore in summer. Early mornings offer the calmest waters for paddling and the best light for photography.

Distance:

About 30 minutes from Kalispell, MT; 90 minutes from Glacier National Park.

How to Get to Flathead Lake:

From Kalispell, take US-93 south toward Polson. The lake’s west side has numerous access points, parks, and scenic pullouts. For a quieter experience, explore the east side via MT-35.

Address:

Flathead Lake, Montana