16 Amazingly Refreshing Lake Destinations In The U.S.

Escape the summer heat all over the country! And don't forget to kick back with a Leinenkugel's Summer Shandy.

1. Lake Superior, Michigan/Wisconsin/Minnesota

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The largest of all the Great Lakes, Lake Superior offers everything from kayaking to agate hunting on the shore to fishing for over 80 species of fish. For the more ambitious, try a segment of the 275-mile long Superior Hiking Trail in Northeastern Minnesota.

2. Lake Powell, Utah/Arizona

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Houseboating is huge here, and there are a plethora of canyon channels to explore. Lake Powell is also excellent for waterskiing, swimming, and hiking amongst red rock and natural arches.

3. Lake Placid, New York

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Fly fishing, boating, and plenty of cultural events in the heart of the Adirondacks.

4. Lake Washington, Washington

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Carved by a glacier, Lake Washington is conveniently located adjacent to Seattle — a perfect weekend destination all summer long.

5. Lake Cumberland, Kentucky

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The ideal escape from the southern summer heat. Home to a state park on an island in the middle of the lake AND record-weighing fish.

6. Lake Tahoe, Nevada/California

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The most incredible swimming spot, with clean, crystal-clear water, surrounded by the majestic Sierra Nevadas.

7. Caddo Lake, Texas/Louisiana

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Explore the wetlands and cypress groves by boat or canoe. Bonus points for anyone who spots Texas Bigfoot, who is rumored to live in the region.

8. Walden Pond, Massachusetts

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The perfect place to take after Thoreau and reflect upon simple living.

9. Lake Champlain, New York/Vermont

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Lake Champlain played a large role in multiple colonial-era wars, and visitors can still check out several historical war forts along the shores. Canoeing and riding ferries around the lake is also recommended.

10. Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin

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One of the most popular boating and fishing lakes in the state, Lake Winnebago is also known for shoreline concerts, wind surfing, and pleasure-boating rallies.

11. Yellowstone Lake, Wyoming

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Awesome waterfront wildlife, boating, and proximity to natural thermal pools.

12. Sebago Lake, Maine

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Excellent for sailing and all types of camping.

13. Crater Lake, Oregon

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It's the deepest lake in America, and it was formed by the collapse of a volcano. Scuba dive the shallows, fish for trout and salmon, or try a boat cruise around the lake.

14. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

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Missouri's snaking backwoods reservoir. Do everything from fishing and waterfront golf to relaxing at local spas.

15. Flathead Lake, Montana

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Located in a region carved by glaciers and home to WILD HORSES.

16. The Great Salt Lake, Utah

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Float effortlessly on your back, observe the unique ecosystem around the lake, and write your name in the surrounding salt beaches. Surprisingly refreshing, and unlike any other lake experience.