Best Summer Lake Vacations for a Tranquil Escape in the USA

In many parts of the United States, a trip to a lakeshore is the sign that summer has officially begun. Escaping to the shimmering, sparkling waters of lakes to cool off in the hot summer months is a rite of passage documented in movies, songs and books for many years. Whether you seek the quiet solitude of a remote forest retreat or a bustling area with plenty of activities, lake vacations provide the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in some of nature's most relaxing landscapes.

Tips for Booking a Summer Lake Vacation

Planning a summer lake vacation follows the same strategy as planning any other vacation. The first thing to do is start planning early. Popular lake destinations, including recreational activities on the water, can fill up quickly during the summer months. Planning and booking as early as possible makes getting the best deals and availability easier.

What if your preferred time isn't available at your favorite resort or campground? Be flexible! If you want to head to the lake from Friday through Sunday, consider switching the days to Wednesday through Friday. Booking during off-peak times not only gets you to the lake but could also save you money and avoid some crowds.

Researching options is an excellent way to determine whether a specific lake and its surrounding community will meet your needs. Consider factors like recreational activities, hotel amenities, and nearby attractions to ensure they will meet your group's vacation goals.

Choosing the Best Summer Lake Vacation Destination

Finding the best summer lake vacation is easy when you have the right tips:

• Scenery and Ambiance
  Some lakes are known for their natural beauty and tranquil surroundings while others are known for their plentiful activities and party-like atmosphere. Even different parts of the same lake can have different ambiances.
• Recreational Activities                                                                                                                  Depending on their location, size and surrounding area, each lake offers a variety of recreational opportunities. From swimming, boating, fishing, hiking and wildlife watching, vacationers can enjoy a full range of activities. 
• Accommodation Options                                                                                                              The specific type of accommodations can also be the deciding factor. Some lake vacations mean staying at the top luxury resort, while others may be camping in a cabin or tent to experience the outdoors. There is something or all preferences and budgets.
• Accessibility                                                                                                                                   The proximity to major cities and airports can impact the decision of where to take a lake vacation. Lakes more conveniently located and connected to highways may attract more visitors looking to have a shorter journey to their lakeside experience. 

Lake Tahoe

Situated in the Sierra Nevada mountains on the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is a fresh lake with about 191 square miles of surface area. Known for its crystal-clear waters and being surrounded by mountains, it's the largest alpine lake in North America and the second deepest lake in the United States, with a maximum depth of 1,645 feet.

The area of Lake Tahoe is well known for its year-round outdoor activities. Boating, swimming, hiking, mountain biking, paddleboarding and kayaking are popular in the summer months. It is also a major tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. In addition to the physical activities available, the area is host to many festivals. However, Lake Tahoe isn't only significant to its visitors. It holds cultural significance to indigenous people, including the Washoe Tribe, who gave the lake its name, which means "edge of the lake."

Lake George

In the southeastern portion of the Adirondack Mountains in New York sits Lake George. A smaller lake that's 32 miles long and three miles at its widest point, it's about an hour's drive from Albany and a four-hour drive from New York City.

The area has a rich history, including a role in the French and Indian War with the Battle of Lake George in 1755. Historical sites to explore include Fort William Henry and Lake George Battlefield Park.

Lake George offers plenty of activities to enjoy. Fishing clinics are available, along with concerts and festivals throughout the summer. For the adventurous types, head to Six Flags Great Escape. Located six miles from the lake's southernmost point, the amusement park features thrill rides, kids rides and, if you haven't had enough of getting wet, a water park with slides, wading pools and a lazy river.

The Finger Lakes

Formed during the last ice age, the Finger Lakes have a long, narrow shape, which resembles fingers on a hand when viewed on a map. Located in northern New York and including cities such as Corning, Seneca Falls and Ithaca, the Finger Lakes have eleven main lakes - Cayuga Lake, Seneca Lake, Keuka Lake, Canandaigua Lake, Skaneateles Lake, Otisco Lake, Owasco Lake, Honeoye Lake, Canadice Lake, Hemlock Lake, and Conesus Lake.

Each lake has unique characteristics, but the different cities have several things in common. Renowned for its wine production, the Finger Lakes region offers many wineries that offer tours and tastings to visitors. The cultural attractions and historical sites throughout the area include the location of the first Women's Rights Convention and the home of Corning Glass. The college towns of Ithaca and Geneva offer unique opportunities to visit museums and theaters.

A popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, the Finger Lakes also has nine state parks to explore. Visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, fishing, camping and looking for wildlife. Multiple scenic waterfalls, including those in Watkins Glen State Park, can also be found. 

Lake Powell

Lake Powell, situated primarily in Utah with portions extending into Arizona, is a reservoir formed by the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River. Surrounded by desert landscapes and sandstone cliffs, it provides a unique lake vacation. One of the largest reservoirs in the country by volume, Lake Powell's shoreline stretches for about 1,960 miles. When the lake is full, its surface area covers over 161,000 acres. A mecca for outdoor lovers, there are plenty of secluded coves to fish, swim or kayak in.

Finding a place to stay at Lake Powell is no problem. There are resorts with lake views and campgrounds to park your RV or pitch a tent. One unique way to stay at the lake is on a houseboat. Even novices can get a lesson on how to pilot one. After that, it's on your way to explore the 96 major canyons and live on the water for your stay.

Lake Chelan

With a depth of over 1,486 feet, Washington State’s Lake Chelan, is one of the deepest lakes in the United States. Surrounded by steep mountains, the lake's waters are crystal clear and fed by mountain streams and snowmelt. The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest surrounds the lake, offering stunning views and opportunities to view various wildlife.

At the upper part of the lake sits the town of Chelan, which offers a 12-acre park on the lake and an evening farmers market. On the north shore is the village of Manson, where apple orchards, wineries, restaurants and family businesses provide things for visitors to enjoy off the water.

For an utterly remote vacation, take a boat to Stehekin. With no roads leading in, the town is secluded but not rustic. Cabins and houses are available to rent, while tours on horseback or foot, fly fishing, kayaking and bike rentals keep visitors busy. There are even two restaurants and a pastry shop in Stehekin.

Lake Michigan

Covering approximately 22,500 square miles, Lake Michigan is the second largest of the Great Lakes by volume and has the second longest shoreline. Another vital shipping resource, the lake also offers plenty of opportunities for recreation in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin.

One place where Lake Michigan plays a significant role is in Chicago, Illinois. The largest city in the states, Chicago has several beaches along Lake Michigan's shorelines that allow residents and visitors to feel like they've escaped city life and sunbathe, swim and enjoy water sports. The 18-mile Lakefront Trail along the lake provides a scenic route for skating, biking, running or walking. There are also festivals, fireworks and other activities along Lake Michigan's shorelines in Chicago during the summer months.