Summer is in full swing, which means that the temperatures are rising. One of the best remedies for a scorching hot day is time spent relaxing by the water. So grab your swimsuit, hop in your RV, and set your GPS for one of these stunning lake destinations in the United States!
Lake Tahoe
Nestled between California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is well known for its pristine beaches and spectacular ski resorts. During the summer you can splash in the water, reel in some fish, and spend a day out on the boat. Time spent on the water isn’t all that Lake Tahoe has to offer, though! There are countless trails near the lake where you can hike or bike, as well as multiple golf courses.
Lake Powell
Most of us don’t picture a desert environment when we imagine a lake, but Lake Powell is the exception. This giant reservoir was formed when the Glen Canyon Dam flooded Glen Canyon, and is now the premier water destination for residents of Utah and Arizona. Stunning orange canyon walls rise out of the clear blue waters, providing the perfect backdrop for your adventures.
There are so many other natural wonders near Lake Powell for you to explore! Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon National Park are both short drives away, as well as the stunning Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.
Jackson Lake
Jackson Lake is located in the Grand Teton National Park and offers spectacular views of the mountain range. Boats, swimmers, and beachgoers are extremely common at the lake during the summer months, and for good reason! You can cool off at the lake after enjoying some of the numerous hiking trails that Grand Teton National Park has to offer, or enjoy the sunset on the glistening water.
Lake Superior
If you’re going to visit a lake this summer, you might as well visit the largest freshwater lake in the world: Lake Superior! This massive lake is accessible from the United States and Canada, and boasts a picturesque shoreline with cliffs, lighthouses, forests, and beaches. You can visit the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, hike in Tahquamenon Falls State Park, or connect with nature at the Great Lakes Aquarium. With a lake that large, there is no limit to what you can do during your visit!
Crater Lake
Crater Lake is an awe-inspiring destination. It was formed after a violent volcanic eruption triggered the collapse of a tall peak. Not only is Crater Lake the deepest lake in the United States, but it is also among the most pristine – the crystal clear water that makes up the lake comes from rainfall and snowmelt.
You can spend your visit at Crater Lake hiking within the national park, admiring the numerous wildflowers, or simply relaxing by the water.
Lake Winnipesaukee
Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in New Hampshire. This picturesque lake is surrounded by colorful houses and is a great spot to relax and unwind on a hot summer day. Learn about the history of the lake and the legend of Adiwando at the Lake Winnipesaukee Museum, see the lake from a new perspective aboard the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad, or just sit back and enjoy the water from one of their sandy beaches.
Lake Okeechobee
Florida’s largest freshwater lake, Lake Okeechobee, is a great spot to escape the heat in the Sunshine State. This lake is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, swimming, and boating. Lake Okeechobee is home to scenic hiking trails where you can get closer to nature, and there are several airboat and pontoon boat services as well.
Lake Mead
Lake Mead spans the border of Arizona and Nevada, and is part of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. This stunning body of teal water is surrounded by towering white and orange canyon walls. Located a short drive from Las Vegas and the Valley of Fire State Park, this lake is an ideal spot for boating, swimming, and soaking up the sun.
Lake Jocassee
Lake Jocassee is one of the most sought after destinations in South Carolina. This pristine lake boasts an undeveloped shoreline that is vibrant and full of life, making it a great spot for fishing, hiking, and swimming. If you’re looking to beat the heat in the South, then Lake Jocassee is the place to go!
Lake Chelan
This lake might be narrow, but don’t underestimate it! Lake Chelan is a popular state park that gives you a taste of the wine, sun, and stunning natural beauty of Washington. Visit one of the nearby vineyards to enjoy the small town charm, or go for a hike through the surrounding mountains. Whatever you decide to do, you’ll enjoy Lake Chelan!