20 U.S. lakes that are perfect getaways

Nestled in Northwest Iowa are lakes that many locals consider to be heaven on Earth. If you want kitschy surrounding towns and bodies of water that are meant for parties, West Okoboji Lake, East Okoboji Lake, and Big Spirit Lake are the places to visit. 

Diablo Lake is a stunning reservoir in the North Cascade mountains in Washington that will blow you away with its beauty. No matter what time of year you visit, your jaw will drop from the scenery. 

Lake Tahoe is the joint pride and joy of California and Nevada. In the winter, it’s absolutely stunning. In the summer, it’s absolutely stunning. In the spring and fall — you guessed it — it's absolutely stunning. 

Table Rock Lake is located in the Ozarks — in Arkansas and Missouri — and it’s a repeat destination for many families in the Midwest. There’s plenty to do year-round at this lake and the surrounding area, whether you’re coming with a family or a group of adults. 

Colorado has some of the most gorgeous lakes in all of the United States, and Hanging Lake is no exception. Its water is a unique, beautiful color, and it has loads of fun waterfalls you won’t soon forget. 

Yellowstone Lake is inside Yellowstone National Park, and visiting it will make you feel like you’ve left Wyoming. It’s vast and beautiful, and if you move around the lake, you’ll always find a new vista to appreciate.  

Lake Powell is one of the most unique bodies of water in the United States, thanks to the surrounding canyons. If you love lakes and a southwestern vibe, Lake Powell is the place for you. 

Tucked in the Black Hills of South Dakota is Sylvan Lake, a magnificent body of water surrounded by rocks perfectly reflected in the water on a still day. It’s one of the state’s hidden gems. 

Not to be confused with Lake Geneva in Europe, Geneva Lake is one of Wisconsin’s shining beacons. It’s proof that there’s much more to do in Wisconsin than drink. 

Lake Norman is a body of water in beautiful North Carolina with all sorts of activities available. If you visit this lake, you’ll be able to boat, paddleboard, and fish on the lake, and you can golf, shop, eat, and more nearby. It makes for an excellent little vacation spot. 

Arizona isn’t exactly known for its lakes, but one of its oases is Lake Havasu. It’s just by the California border, and it’s a great body of water whether you want a bumpin’ bachelorette party or a relaxing weekend with the family. 

Oregon’s Crater Lake is a singular body of water. Truly, you won’t see another lake like it in your lifetime. It’s surrounded by mountainous beauty and features an eye-catching island. If you’re a fan of hiking, put Crater Lake on your bucket list. 

Some places in the Midwest don’t feel like the Midwest. Mackinac Island is one of those places. The Michigan locale on Lake Huron is charming and quaint, making you crave a simpler time. But lucky for you, your visit will include all the modern amenities that you wouldn’t want to vacation without. 

There is so much natural beauty in the state of Maine. One such place is Moosehead Lake, a fun body of water that is quintessentially Maine. It’s beautiful at all times of the year, but you’ll find it particularly intoxicating in the fall when autumnal colors are at their peak. 

Maroon Lake, another Colorado body of water, is near Aspen, one of those iconic Colorado lakes that makes the state so famous. Its surrounding mountains, vibrant grass, and glassy water make for such a stunning vista it’s almost disorienting. 

New York is best known for its bustling city and glamorous cities sprawling Long Island, but in Upstate New York is a series of lakes, including Lake George, that make many city folks wonder why they don’t permanently abandon their concrete jungle lifestyle. Lake George is natural Americana at its best. 

Not too far from Lake George is Lake Willoughby, a lake that shines in the fall. Tree-lined mountains flank it with some of the most gorgeous foliage you’ve ever seen when the weather starts to get crisp, and you’ll be planning a repeat trip the second you step foot in the area. 

If you want a lake experience that feels like you’re in a movie, visit Caddo Lake on the Texas-Louisiana border. Its trees, though mysterious and potentially scary to young children, are quite picturesque. Just being in Caddo Lake’s presence will inspire you to tell a spooky story. 

One of the Great Lakes, Lake Michigan is just that — great. Its multiple entry points are all so wonderful it’s hard to choose. Whether you want city or country to accompany your visit to the body of water, you’ve got it. 

Glacier National Park is rife with picture-perfect spots, including Avalanche Lake. The postcard-ready place is the absolute best destination to end a hike. It’s so beautiful that you won’t want to return to your starting spot.