• Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Lake Chelan ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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2. Walden Pond ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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3. Horseshoe Lake

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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4. Crater Lake

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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5. Deer Lake

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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6. Echo Lake

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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7. Fallen Leaf Lake

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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8. Flathead Lake

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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9. Cascade Ponds

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10. Lake Carlos

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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11. Lake Crescent

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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12. Lake Erie

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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13. Lake George

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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14. Lake McConaughy

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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15. Lake Michigan

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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16. Lake Ontario

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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17. Lake Powell

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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18. Lake Red Rock

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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19. Lake Winnipesaukee

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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20. Red Fish Lake

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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21. Saint Mary Lake

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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22. Spring Lake

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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23. Torch Lake

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
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24. Blue Hole

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Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

There are few better ways to spend a summer day than playing in a lake with family and friends, picnicking and sunbathing on the shore, or boating around and soaking in nature. A favorite summertime pastime for many and a great way to cool off, swimming holes are the next best thing to a beach vacation. We’ve chosen some of the best swimming lakes from North America in this list. Ranging from quiet mountain lakes to the massive Great Lakes and popular city swimming areas, we’ve got something for everyone.

Map:


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