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Despite the appeal of a far-flung adventure, picturesque getaways also exist in our own backyard. Indeed, the best lakes in the US rival some of the most magnificent bodies of water around the world, from ancient calderas in Oregon to saline soda lakes in California. Outdoor enthusiasts of all types can appreciate the many sides of a quintessential American lake—whether heading out for a laid-back picnic, fishing trip, or an adrenaline-fueled day of water sports.
While it’s estimated that there are nearly 150,000 lakes in the lower 48 states alone, there are a handful that especially stand out for their notably good looks. Steep cliffs! Towering forests! Narrow canyons! The beauty of the best lakes in the United States truly knows no bounds. Below, discover 17 standouts that deliver on natural splendor.
Summersville Lake, West Virginia
The underrated landscapes of West Virginia run the gamut of natural beauty, from rolling forested hills to the rugged mountains of the Appalachian Range. The state’s largest lake—Summersville Lake—has over 2,700 surface acres of water and over 60 miles of shoreline. Adventurers can plunge one hundred feet deep to scuba dive through unique sandstone formations in clear freshwater. If you prefer to keep your head above water, white-water rafting and kayaking are also popular options.
Where to Stay: The Greenbrier is located about an hour-and-a-half southeast of the lake and is well worth the drive thanks to its rich history: the resort dates back to 1778 when it opened as a natural healing oasis.
Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada
Straddling the border between California and Nevada, this two-million-year-old freshwater lake sits majestically in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. In fact, it’s the largest alpine lake in North America and is encircled by landscapes seemingly plucked from a postcard. Lake Tahoe’s clarity is among its main selling points and is the clearest it’s been in four decades. (On average, you can see a whopping 70 feet down.) Go for a hike, catch a fish, or hop on a paddleboard—Lake Tahoe has it all.
Where to Stay: Edgewood Tahoe has sat on the shoreline of the lake for over 150 years, offering a luxury lodge vibe in a dramatically beautiful setting.
Diablo Lake, Washington
Found within Washington’s rugged North Cascades, this glacier-formed lake is known for its eye-popping hue. Due to minerals drained into the water from the glacial flour, Diablo Lake has remarkable shades of jade green and turquoise. Hike the Diablo Lake Trail to access the waters or opt for a boat-in campground for a memorable adventure.
Where to Stay: Ross Lake Resort is tucked within the heart of the North Cascade Mountains and makes a tranquil home base for an adrenaline-fueled getaway.
Flathead Lake, Montana
The largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, Montana’s Flathead Lake is renowned for its deep, crystal-clear waters. It’s surrounded by the Mission Mountains to the east and the Salish Mountains to the west, rendering the entire setting incredibly picturesque. Aside from its numerous recreational activities, biodiversity, and scenic beauty, it also holds cultural significance for the confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes. Cherry orchards flourish along the lake’s shores and there is a cherry festival held every July to celebrate their fruit.
Where to Stay: The Resort at Paws Up offers the unique experience of staying on a working ranch while enjoying luxury accommodations ranging from safari-style glamping tents to private timber homes.
Mono Lake, California
Otherworldly ‘tufa towers’ are the star attraction at this saline soda lake in California. These calcium-carbonate spires and knobs rise up throughout Mono Lake’s 65 square miles, creating a landscape that is hauntingly beautiful. It also happens to be an accommodating habitat for the millions of birds that feed and rest here each year, rendering it an excellent destination for birdwatchers.
Where to Stay: Mono Lake is located just outside Yosemite National Park and just a couple hours from Under Canvas’s scenic glamping outpost. Enjoy a king-size bed and ensuite bathroom whilst surrounded by nature.
Sylvan Lake, South Dakota
Winding through the Black Hills of South Dakota and five miles southwest of Mount Rushmore sits Sylvan Lake. It was created in 1891 when a dam was built across Sunday Gulch Creek, and now, visitors can relish the natural setting with a day of rock climbing, boating, hiking, or a simple picnic beneath the fragrant ponderosa pine trees.
Where to Stay: Book a cabin at the Sylvan Lake Lodge for an authentic experience complete with log fireplaces. (Fun fact: Frank Lloyd Wright was initially commissioned to build the lodge but his busy schedule resulted in another architect hire.)
Lake Ouachita, Arkansas
Minimal shoreline development arguably makes Arkansas’s largest lake its best. Lake Ouachita is surrounded by 1.8 million acres of forest and visitors can enjoy open camping across 200-plus islands. While here, hop on a boat to explore the Geo Float Trail; a self-guided water trail that extends across 12 exploration areas
Where to Stay: The lake is less than 15 miles from Hot Springs National Park, so take advantage of that proximity and book a room at The Reserve at Hot Springs, a former private mansion and national heritage landmark.
Crater Lake, Oregon
This volcanic crater lake brings the drama with its plunging waters and rich blue hue. It’s the deepest lake in the United States and formed around 7,700 years ago. The lake is surrounded by steep cliffs and features an island (‘Wizard Island’) where visitors can take a boat cruise for day hikes and swimming.
Where to Stay: Step back in time at Crater Lake Lodge, which opened in 1915 and offers guests scenic views of the lake and cliffside.
Yellowstone Lake, Wyoming
You can’t swim in Yellowstone Lake (it’s far too cold!) but that doesn’t stop this stunning lake from ranking among the nation’s best. It sits 7,733 feet above sea level, making it the largest high elevation lake in North America. Visitors can take in the views from the water via boat, go for a stroll along the shoreline, or hop in the car to explore the Grand Loop Road.
Where to Stay: Old Faithful Inn is a national landmark and one of the largest log-style structures in the world. Book a room here and enjoy immersive details like the gargantuan stone fireplace in the lobby and truly unplug—there’s no internet service.
Saranac Lake, New York
New York’s Adirondack Park has over 3,000 lakes, and while Lake George is nicknamed the ‘Queen of American Lakes’ there’s something about Saranac Lake that lures you in even more. It spans over five miles in length and is part of a chain of three lakes (Lower, Middle, and Upper Saranac Lake). Part of the fun are the numerous islands throughout the lake, where you can spot loons, go canoe camping, and channel your inner explorer.
Where to Stay: The Point is one of the few preserved ‘Great Camps’ from the Gilded Age that you can stay in. Book a room at this luxury all-inclusive Relais Chateaux property that once belonged to the Rockefeller family.
Priest Lake, Idaho
A mere 30 miles from the Canadian border, this 19-mile, 300-feet-deep lake is a sight to behold. Priest Lake sits below the Selkirk Mountains and is surrounded by dense forest filled with fir, cedar, and tamarack trees. Wildlife flourishes here, too; there are 50 resident grizzly bears as well as wolves, moose, and bald eagles.
Where to Stay: Position yourself two minutes from the lake at this three bedroom Luby Lodge Airbnb rental, which features a striking deck with front-row views of the forest.
Maroon Lake, Colorado
For budding landscape photographers, Maroon Bells takes the cake. It’s also probably the most photographed spot in Colorado due to its impossibly perfect mirror reflection of snowcapped, bell-shaped peaks in the peaceful lake below. Unsurprisingly, it’s a popular spot—so be sure to head here mid-week when crowds are fewer.
Where to Stay: Aspen is only 25 minutes away, so book a room at the new MOLLIE Aspen for its Japanese-meets-Scandinavian design influences.
Lake Superior, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin
As the moniker suggests, there’s much to be said about Lake Superior. It’s the largest freshwater lake in the world (by surface area) and its shoreline borders the Canadian province of Ontario plus Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The lake was formed around 1.2 billion years ago and now outdoor enthusiasts from around the world travel here to experience this slice of natural splendor, from rock formations and cascading waterfalls to shipwreck museums and historic lighthouses.
Where to Stay: On the north shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota is the Naniboujou Lodge Restaurant, a 1920s-era lodge that opened as a private club and now operates as a historic resort.
Lake Powell, Arizona and Utah
This man-made reservoir on the Colorado River is immediately recognizable by its many sandstone canyons and channels that sharply contrast with the lake’s sparkling blue waters. There’s about 2000 miles of shoreline and an incredibly long stretch of water (it would take around four days for a boat to make a round trip from the main channel to the farthest opposite end). Kayak the narrow canyons or take a helicopter ride for a bird’s eye view—there’s no bad vantage point from which to experience this distinct body of water.
Where to Stay: Lake Powell is considered the best houseboating destination in the states, which is justification enough to rent your own and float along for the duration of your getaway.
Lake Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin
One of the five great lakes of North America, Lake Michigan is beloved for its sandy beaches, unique islands, crystalline blue water, and historic lighthouses. It serves as the backdrop to both Milwaukee’s and Chicago’s skyline and is home to a diverse freshwater ecosystem of birds and aquatic species.
Where to Stay: The Langham, Chicago occupies the last office building that was designed by iconic architect Mies van der Rohe and has work by over 140 artists displayed throughout the hotel. For a more idyllic escape along Lake Michigan’s pristine shores, head four hours north to Door County in Wisconsin for a stay at the Scandinavian-inspired Dorr Hotel in Sister Bay.
Lake Champlain, New York and Vermont
This expansive lake is home to the oldest known fossil reef in the world (between 450 and 480 million years old) and has its own version of the Loch Ness Monster named ‘Champ.’ The lake has over 70 islands, is a haven for birdwatchers, and often freezes over entirely during winter, making it a haven for ice fishing and skating.
Where to Stay: Blind Tiger in Burlington is a 14-room boutique property housed in a historic brick mansion that dates back to the late 19th century.
Moosehead Lake, Maine
This lake in the heart of The Maine Highlands resembles a moose’s head (complete with antlers) and is the state’s largest body of water—it covers nearly 75,000 acres. Moosehead Lake is surrounded by mountains, including Moose Mountain, and wildlife such as black bears, deer, and—yes—moose can all be spotted here. In fact, moose watching is among the more popular activities, with guided tours available to book.
Where to Stay: This waterfront cabin via Airbnb sits on 32 private acres and is a former boathouse, complete with a large deep water dock. Alternatively, choose from one of several quintessential sporting camps and wilderness lodges to immerse even deeper into nature.
