Some of these swimming lakes are freshwater, some are saltwater, others are surrounded by forest and some even have waterfalls, so take a look and see which swimming lakes are near you. Or, if you’re planning a trip, see if there’s one swimming lake you can visit nearby. From Alabama to Wyoming, check out each of these best swimming lakes across the US below to see why people love spending time there. Then, share this list of lakes with your family and friends so they can add some of the locations to their summer bucket list, too.
Swimming Lakes Near Me
Alabama
Lake Martin in Tallapoosa, Elmore, and Coosa counties Lake Martain is huge! It covers more than 41,000 acres and is Alabama’s largest man-made lake. One of Lake Martin’s most popular landmarks is Acapulco Rock and you’ll see tons of swimmers and cliff jumpers there every summer. Walter F. George Lake in Barbour County, AL Walter F. George Lake is along the Chattahoochee River. Its 1,030 kilometer shoreline offers plenty of recreational activities, which is why it’s a great spot to go with friends or family during the summer. Nobody will want to leave there.
Alaska
Wasilla Lake in Wasilla, AK During the summer, Alaska can get pretty warm and when that happens, it’s nice to know where a lake is so you can go swimming. Wasilla Lake is one of the best spots you can go swimming in the state, so keep that in mind the next time you want to take a dip. Chena Lake in Fairbanks, AK If you’re in Fairbanks on a hot day, head over to Chena Lake. It’s a great place to cool off and relax with your family and friends. It even has two designated swimming areas with beautiful beaches.
Arizona
Knoll Lake in Happy Jack, AZ Knoll Lake is a pretty blue-green-colored lake along the Mogollon Rim and covers about 75 acres. It’s the perfect destination to go to if you want to camp and swim. Plus, it’s something different to do in this desert state. Lake Mohave in Bullhead City, AZ If you are looking for an amazing lake on Arizona’s West Coast, check out Lake Mohave. The lake is shared with Nevada and has gorgeous, clear water. You’ll love sitting out along its beaches and splashing in its water. It’s worth going to if you’re looking for a way to beat the heat.
Arkansas
Lake Ouachita in Hot Springs, AR To see Arkansas’s largest lake, head over to Lake Ouachita. The lake has s 40,000 acres of super-clear water you can swim in, plus it’s surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest. How pretty does that sound? Lake Wedington in Fayetteville, AR Lake Wedington is a 102-acre lake. It has a lush forest surrounding it and has a swimming hole vibe. It’s not only a good place to swim, but also a fun spot to kayak and fish, too.
California
Leaf Lake in El Dorado County, CA Fallen Leaf Lake is a mountain lake that is near the California–Nevada state border. It’s a striking place to swim at no matter what your age is. Plus, it’s also surrounded by trails so you can hike, too. Mono Lake in Mono County, CA Even the worst swimmer will like Mono County. Why? The lake is two and a half times as salty as the ocean, so you can float in it without trying. If you go there, you’ll have a pretty unforgettable experience.
Colorado
Grand Lake in Grand Lake, CO You’ll love Grand Lake. You can swim there and then go spend time on its boardwalk when you’re done. It’s the largest and deepest natural lake in Colorado, which is also why so many people gravitate towards it in the summer. Horsetooth Reservoir in Fort Collins, CO With over 3,900 acres of surface water, Horsetooth Reservoir is a favorite destination of many. It has nice beaches for swimming, but you can also paddleboard, water ski and scuba dive there. So pack your bag and head on over!
Connecticut
Bantam Lake in Morris, CT You’ll feel like you are at the beach when you visit Bantam Lake. You can get a public pass to go there for the season (prices range from 75-150) or a daily admission pass (prices vary). The lake is open from May 29 to August Candlewood Lake in Danbury, CT You can sink your toes into the sand at the biggest lake in Connecticut if you visit Candlewood Lake. It has a stunning beach and is a good place to lake dive, fish and more. How great does that sound?
Delaware
Lake Como in Newcastle County, DE Want a wonderful place to swim? Consider venturing over to Lake Como. It gets quite busy, but it has a lifeguard supervised swimming beach, which is great if you’re going there with kids. Phillips Landing in Laurel, DE There’s nothing not to like about Phillips Landing. In fact, it’s the perfect swimming spot to go on the East Coast. You can swim in the serene and beautiful water near the Phillips Landing Recreation area.
Florida
Rainbow Springs in Dunnellon, FL With Florida’s hot temperatures, finding a lake to swim in is a must. Rainbow Springs is one of the best swimming lakes in the state. It’s also a popular spot to go tubing for both locals and tourists. Ichetucknee Springs State Park in Fort White, FL If you’re in the Sunshine State, you have to go to Ichetucknee Springs State Park. It’s a beloved swimming spot in Florida thanks to its crystal-clear spring-fed waters. There is a $6 fee per vehicle.
Georgia
Lake Conasauga in Chatsworth, GA Lake Conasauga is a 19-acre spring-fed lake. It’s the highest lake in Georgia at 3150 feet above sea level. You can do everything from swimming to boating and fishing there. Lake Rabun in Lakemont, GA Lake Rabun is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Lake-goers can swim there, boat and fish. It’s a family-friendly destination that you’ll regret not going to if you’re ever in the area.
Hawaii
‘Ohe’o Gulch in Maui, HI If you’re looking for a memorable place to go in Hawaii, you’ll love ‘Ohe’o Gulch. You can find it in the heart of Maui’s Haleakalā National Park. It has series of waterfalls that tumble down into the lake, so it’s pretty magical to swim in. Queen’s Bath in Kauai, HI Queen’s Bath is a pretty place to swim and snorkel in. It has blue-green waters and was formed from volcanic rock. If that’s not super Hawaiian, then we don’t know what is.
Idaho
Payette Lake in McCall, ID If you want to place to hang out this weekend with your friends, consider going to Payette Lake. You can go out on jet skis, paddleboard and, of course, swim. It’ll be the best weekend activity you guys can do together in the summer. Priest Lake in Priest Lake, ID Priest Lake is known for its clear water. It’s located in the northernmost portion of the Idaho Panhandle and is 19 miles long. It’s a hidden gem where you can make fun memories swimming or renting canoes, kayaks and paddleboards.
Illinois
Crystal Lake in Rock Falls, IL In the summertime, Crystal Lake sparkles in the sunshine. It has 350 feet of sandy beaches, so you’ll feel like you’re on a beach even though you’re in the middle of The United States. Besides swimming and sunbathing, the lake also has slides, a water mat and a rolling log. Lake Le-Aqua-Na in Lena, IL Lake Le-Aqua-Na is dreamy. It’s a man-made lake with super-clear water that also has a built-in filtration system. It’s 40-acres large and is an awesome place to swim.
Indiana
Brass Lake Beach in Knox, IN If you’re trying to find a great lake that is kid-friendly, you’ll love Brass Lake Beach. It’s stunning and has a large shallow area for kids to swim in so they’ll feel safe. Monroe Lake in Bloomington, IN Located in Paynetown State Recreation Area is Monroe Lake. It has two beaches where you can swim, as well as fishing piers and picnic areas nearby. It’s a lovely place to spend the day.
Iowa
Lake Macbride in Solon, IA Believe it or not, Iowa has some great lakes. One is Lake Macbride. It’s an 812-acre lake, which is Iowa’s largest lake where you can swim at. Little Wall Lake in Hamilton, IA Don’t let its name fool you, there’s actually lots to do at Little Wall Lake. Besides water activities, you can also camp and hike in the area so it makes a nice weekend getaway destination.
Kansas
Big Hill Lake in Labette County, KS Covering 367 acres is Big Hill Lake. You can go there to swim until the end of September, so you can enjoy it all summer long. It’s a must if you’re in Kansas. Santa Fe Lake in Augusta, KS If you’re looking for a place to relax and cool off, Santa Fe Lake is for you. It has four beaches, so you have lots of options when it comes to swimming. Plus, you’ll love that its beaches are divided so that you won’t have to worry about swimming where boats are floating.
Kentucky
Lake Carnico in Carlisle, KY A beach in Kentucky? Lake Carnico comes pretty close. It’s a place you and your family can go to splash away your troubles. To access the beach, it’s $3 for those 12 years old and up. Barren River Lake in Lucas, KY Barren River Lake can be found in parts of Allen, Barren, and Monroe counties. It’s a fun place to go when you want to spend some time in nature. So gather your closest friends and head over so you can soak up some vitamin D while you’re all swimming.
Louisiana
White Sands Lake in Franklinton, LA White Sands Lake is open every except for Monday. There are a lot of rules to follow there, so make sure you check them out before you go. If you have kids, you should know that if they are under 12, they have to wear a lifejacket while they are in the water. Lake Claiborne in Homer, LA If you live in Northern Louisiana and need something to do over the weekend, go to Lake Claiborne. You’ll love swimming there and enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Maine
Echo Lake in Mount Vernon, ME Echo Lake is a must when you’re in Maine. It’s not only a pretty place to spend the day at, but it’s always really safe and has a lifeguard present from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Damariscotta Lake in Lincoln County, ME Damariscotta Lake is a large freshwater lake that is close to the state’s capital. The lake covers 4,600 acres so you have plenty of areas to choose from to swim in. There are even walking trails you can venture around on after you take a plunge.
Maryland
Lake Habeeb in Allegany County, MD If you are looking for a nice lake to go to in Maryland, try Lake Habeeb. It’s known for having the bluest water in the state and has two public access beaches. You can even bring your furry friends with you because it’s a pet-friendly beach. Deep Creek Lake in Swanton, MD Deep Creek Lake is a retreat you can escape to whenever you want. It’s open year-round and has two swimming beaches you can go to relax. It also has a campground in case you want to swim during the day and sleep under the stars at night.
Massachusetts
Webster Lake in Webster, MA Webster Lake is home to Memorial Beach. If you’re visiting from out of state, it’ll cost a small fee to go. However, it’s open from sunrise to sunset so you’ll get your money’s worth. Mirror Lake Beach in Fort Devens, MA If you want to find a lake in a forest to swim at, you’ll fall in love with Mirror Lake Beach. It’s surrounded by trees and has a charming feel. You can walk along its beach, swim or rent a boat. It also has seasonal lifeguards for safety and a free weekly concert series called Songs at Mirror Lake, in the summer.
Michigan
Lake Charlevoix in Charlevoix, MI If you’re in Northwest Michigan, check out Lake Charlevoix. It’s the third-largest lake in the state, and some say the second prettiest lake in the country. It has four beaches there where you can swim, however our favorites are Depot Beach and Ferry Beach. Big Manistique Lake in Curtis, MI You can find Big Manistique Lake in the state’s upper peninsula. It’s a wonderful place to swim thanks to the fact that it has two creeks running through it, so it constantly gets a fresh flow of water. Visitors can also enjoy other water activities, like tubing, water skiing, jet-skiing and boating.
Minnesota
Rainy Lake in International Falls, MN You won’t be disappointed if you go to Rainy Lake. It straddles the Canada/United States border near Fort Frances and offers everything from beach swimming to boating. Talk about a win/win. Deer Lake in Itasca County, MN Did you know that Deer Lake is nicknamed the “Lake of Changing Colors” due to its colorful water that can shift from blue to green depending on mineral concentration? If that sounds like a place you want to take a dip, make sure you visit it this summer.
Mississippi
Arkabutla Lake in MS Can you believe that over 2 million people visit Arkabutla Lake each year? That’s how popular it is! The lake offers everything from swimming to boating—and it even has camping sites nearby. It cost $2 for walk-ins and $5 per vehicle. Aliceville Lake in Columbus, MS Aliceville Lake is a manmade lake where people love going in the summer. The lake is partly in Mississippi and partly in Alabama, which is pretty cool thinking you could swim over the state line while you’re in it.
Missouri
Lake of the Ozarks in Rolla, MO When you visit Lake of the Ozarks, you’ll find Fugitive Beach. You can go swimming there or play on one of their large inflatable waterslides any day of the week from 10:00 am-6:00 pm. It’s $13 if you’re over 10 years old and $11 if you’re younger. Table Rock Lake in Branson, MO Table Rock Lake is home to one of the best beaches in Missouri: Moonshine Beach. It’s very scenic thanks to its clear water and surrounding forest. It’s the perfect location to get some sun and be in a zen-like environment.
Montana
Whitefish Lake in Whitefish, MT Whitefish Lake is a place people love in Montana. It’s a glacial lake that has public beach access, which includes a designated swimming area. It also has docks, charming gazebos and picnic tables.
Nebraska
Lake McConaughy in in Ogallala, NB It may be cold in Nebraska, but if you’re up for a swim, go to Lake McConaughy. It covers 30,000 surface acres and is filled with sandy white beaches you can lay on if you’d rather just soak up some sun. Sometimes this lake is called Big Mac, due to its large size. Flathead Lake in Kalispell, NB Fun fact: Flathead Lake is one of the cleanest lakes in the world! That means, it’s an amazing location to go swimming. The swimming season goes from July until September.
Nevada
Lake Tahoe in Tahoe City, NV You’ve probably heard of Lake Tahoe before. It’s a common tourist attraction in Nevada where people go to swim and hang out in nature. The lake was formed over two million years ago and is a beautiful site to see if you get the chance. Lake Mead in Clark Country, NV After going to Las Vegas, take some time to relax in Lake Mead. It’s just east of Sin City and is surrounded by mountain ranges. You’ll be glad you discovered it.
New Hampshire
Crystal Lake in Manchester, NH Who wouldn’t want to swim in Crystal Lake? Its name alone sounds so serene and it’s definitely worth checking out. In addition to swimming, you can also canoe, kayak and fish there. Little Squam Lake in Ashland, NH Longing for a beach day? Drive to Little Squam Lake. It’s in an adorable beach town and is the perfect place to swim your day away. It’s even adjacent to a charming covered bridge.
New Jersey
Atsion Lake in Shamong, NJ For a fee of $5 on weekdays and $10 on weekends, you can visit Atsion Lake. It is open from 10:00am to 6:00 pm and has lifeguards on duty. You can also rent a cabin across from the lake if you want to stay longer than one day. Lake Hopatcong in Landing, NJ It’s a warm and sunny day, where should you go? To Lake Hopatcong! It’s the largest freshwater body in New Jersey and is so much fun. It’s open from sunrise to sunset and does cost a fee depending on the day you visit. It’s $6 on weekdays and $10 on weekends.
New Mexico
Elephant Butte Lake in Elephant Butte Lake, NM Elephant Butte Lake is full of sandy beaches. It’s located in New Mexico’s largest State Park, so you’ll have plenty to do and look at besides just swimming once you’re there. It’s a great place to check out if you’ve never been. Abiquiu Lake in Abiquiu, NM While large bodies of water aren’t something New Mexico is known for, there are some lakes where you can swim in. Abiquiu Lake is one of them. It’s unlike any other lakes because it’s surrounded by red rock cliffs and has clear, cool water and a stunning beach. Plus, it’s not far from Santa Fe.
New York
Canopus Lake in Carmel, NY Did you know there’s a lake you can swim in that’s only one hour from Manhattan? It’s true! It’s called Canopus Lake and it’s open daily and on weekends. It’s a 100-acre lake and even has rowboats you can rent if you’d like to row around after you swim. North-Shore Lake in Haines Falls, NY There’s not one, but two different beaches where you can swim at North-Shore Lake. It’s a magical place you can go no matter if you live in NYC, New York state or anywhere else. There’s also a playground nearby for kids to play on before or after they go swimming.
North Carolina
Lake Lure in Lake Lure, NC Lake Lure is a go-to spot in North Carolina. It has a swimming area where you can kick back and relax at with your friends or family. You can also find several vacation rentals nearby. Lake Santeetlah in McDowell county, NC Lake Santeetlah is the freshwater paradise you’ve been dreaming of. It has a 76-mile shoreline and is mostly surrounded by nationally protected forest. We recommend camping there so you can take advantage of the beauty.
North Dakota
Lake Metigoshe in Bottineau, ND Up north in the Turtle Mountains is Lake Metigoshe. It has a story-book-like atmosphere and is a place locals love to go. It’s a popular place to canoe and kayak, as well as swim. Lake Tschida in Elgin, ND Lake Tschida, also known as Heart Butte Reservoir, is a favorite of many people in North Dakota, though not many people outside the state know about it. It’s a beautiful destination to visit if you want to take a dip.
Ohio
Apple Valley Lake in Apple Valley, OH Apple Valley Lake is located in a private community in Ohio. However, if you live in Apple Valley, are a guest of someone who lives there, or purchase a guest pass, you can have access to the charming lake and beach. It’s a hidden gem that not everyone knows about, so if you get the chance to go, do it. Lake Milton in Lake Milton, OH One of the best places to swim in Northern Ohio is Craig Beach at Lake Milton. It’s free to everyone who goes there and is open every day.
Oklahoma
Wes Watkins Lake in McLoud, OK Not sure what time to visit Wes Watkins Lake? No worries, it’s open 24 hours a day so you can basically go whenever you want. Though, mid-afternoon is the best. There are also campsites there in case you want to make a long weekend of it. Lake Arcadia in Edmond, OK Lake Arcadia is in Central State Park. So if you’re nearby, take advantage of it and go swimming. It’s one of those places that you won’t be able to get enough of once you go.
Oregon
Gifford Lakes in Sandy, OR If you want to go to Gifford Lake, you’re in luck because it isn’t a rough hike to get there. You just have to walk for about 30 minutes from the trailhead. Once you’re there, you’ll understand why people think it’s such a dreamy place to swim. Cottage Grove Lake in Eugene, OR Planning a family outing? Add Cottage Grove Lake to your list. It’s a wonderful area in the rolling hills of the Willamette Valley where you can swim, fish and have fun.
Pennsylvania
Fuller Lake in Gardners, PA There’s no denying that the weather in Pennsylvania can get hotter than hot, so refresh by going swimming in Fuller Lake. Fuller Beach is open all day from 11:00-7:00 pm until the end of September. Trust us, it’ll be your lifesaver this summer. Beltzville State Park, PA Beltzville State Park is where you’ll find a 525-foot sandy beach in Pennsylvania. It’s a good place to escape with your girlfriends or family on a Saturday afternoon.
Rhode Island
Breezy Lake in Coventry, RI Put on your swimsuit and pack your sunscreen so you can visit Breezy Lake. One of the best things about it is that you can see straight to the bottom because the water is so clear. Wallum Lake in Burrillville, RI Rhode Island may be small, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have any lakes there. Wallum Lake is actually a big draw to the people who live there. It’s a 322-acre lake that has its southern half in Rhode Island and northern half in Massachusetts.
South Carolina
Lake Jocassee in Salem, SC Talk about a picture-perfect lake! Lake Jocassee looks like a postcard. It has many public access points so it’s ever super-crowded in one given spot. However, a lot of people do go there, so make sure you arrive early to ensure you get a parking spot. Lake Greenwood in Greenwood County, SC Instead of hitting up the ocean, go to Lake Greenwood to swim. You can find it in Greenwood County and it has 212 miles of shoreline.
South Dakota
Sylvan Lake in Custer, SD What’s better than swimming in a pool? Swimming in Sylvan Lake. It’s located in the Black Hills of South Dakota and has a beach where you can escape from reality for the day. Sunday Gulch Trailhead and Black Elk Peak Hiking Trail are also nearby. Big Stone Lake in Big Stone City, SD If you have a free day, spend it at Big Stone Lake. It’s a freshwater lake that has an average depth of 8 feet, making it a great swimming area with nice beaches.
Tennessee
Norris Lake in Knoxville, TN No matter if you’re a water sports enthusiast or someone who loves swimming, you’ll enjoy spending time at Norris Lake. It has pristine water and over 800 miles of shoreline. It’s a Tennessee treasure for sure. Lake Acorn in Dickson County, TN Looking for a fun summer spot? Consider Lake Acorn. It’s open Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day weekend to anyone who wants to go, and it’s located just steps away from the Lodge at Montgomery Bell.
Texas
Lake Travis in Austin, TX If you’re looking for a unique lake where you can swim and sunbathe, check out Lake Travis. It’s the only place in Texas where you can legally be nude at the beach. So if you’ve always wanted to go somewhere like that, check it out. Lake Tejas in Colmesneil, TX Ditch the hot Texas heat by taking a dip in Lake Tejas. It’s a place where you can have nonstop fun thanks to their water volleyball nets, their paddle boats and 80 yards of sandy beaches. People of all ages will love it and you can go there anytime from mid-May-Labor Day.
Utah
Bear Lake in Garden City, UT One amazing location in Utah is Bear Lake. The lake is so beautiful that it is often referred to as the Caribbean of the Rockies, mainly because of its picturesque turquoise-blue water. So if you can’t afford to head to those tropical islands right now, think about booking a vacay here instead. Herriman Lake in Herriman, UT If you’re more into small lakes, visit Herriman Lake. It’s a man-made lake that was designed for you to enjoy the sun, sand and water in the middle of the desert state. You can hang out there from 7:30am-9:00 pm.
Vermont
Maidstone Lake in Guildhall, VT Jump in! Maidstone Lake is a remote lake where you can find a gorgeous swimming beach on the east side of the lake. You can also hike around the forest that surrounds the area. Lake Elmore in Lamoille County, VT Lake Elmore is a striking lake that can be found the central north half of the state. It’s a popular place to swim, kayak and fish. You can even see Elmore Mountain from the north side of the lake while you’re spending time there.
Virginia
Lake Anna in Spotsylvania, VA Lake Anna is in Northern Virginia and a good destination for your whole family to go. You can enjoy swimming in the lake’s 13,000 acres of water and chill out on its beach. There are even lifeguards there so you’ll feel extra safe. Clayton Lake in Dublin, VA Clayton Lake is ideal for swimming. You’ll have a splash there with your friends and family. And its open until 10:00 pm, so you really can stay there all day long if you’d like.
Washington
Lake Chelan in Chelan, WA If you see a long, narrow lake winding more than 50 miles through north-central Washington State, you’ve just spotted Lake Chelan. There’s nothing not to like about it, which is why so many people go there to swim.
West Virginia
Ace Lake in Oak Hill, WV Are you on the hunt for a more adventurous lake? Then, Ace Lake is for you! It’s open from May until October and has water slides, inflatables, a zip line and more! It’s a place where you can stay and play all day in the water. Summersville Lake in Summersville , WV With 60 miles of shoreline and over 28,000 acres of water, Summersville Lake is the largest lake in the state. It has superb water quality, which is why so many people enjoy swimming and scuba diving there. It’s a must-see when you’re in West Virginia.
Wisconsin
Silver Lake Beach in Portage, WI Silver Lake Beach was donated to the City of Portage in 1948. It’s considered one of the best beaches in the area, so it’s worth checking out if you’ve never been. You and your littles will also feel safe swimming thanks to the lifeguards that are there from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. Jordan Lake in Adams County, WI Jordan Lake is also known as Long Lake. It’s one of the more popular lakes in the area and has four sandy beaches where people can swim. The only question is, which one will you go to first?
Wyoming
Leigh Lake in Grand Tetons, WY If you want to go to a lake that won’t be crowded, you’ll love Leigh Lake. It’s located in a secluded spot, so you won’t have to worry about a ton of families being there. Plus, it’s pretty close to Mt. Moran if you want to go hiking, too. Blue Miner Lake in Kelly, WY Blue Miner Lake is one of the prettiest lakes. You can see Sleeping Indian Mountain from it while you’re swimming, which makes it have a magical backdrop. And while you can swim in the lake, its water is cold because it’s in Wyoming, so it’s more of a place you go for a quick dip or to ride floaties in. Check out…Best Waterparks Across the US20 Best Inflatable Pools67+ Best Family Beach VacationsBest Berry Picking Near MeFree Things to Do Near Me
