Splash into Summer: Best Lakes in America to Enjoy Memorial Day Weekend

Celebrating Memorial Day by a beautiful lake offers a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor activities. Here are the 10 best lakes in the United States to enjoy Memorial Day:

Top 10 Best Lakes to Celebrate Memorial Day

1. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
• Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain scenery, Lake Tahoe offers excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and enjoying beachside barbecues.
2. Lake Michigan, Michigan/Wisconsin/Illinois/Indiana
• The third-largest of the Great Lakes, Lake Michigan is known for its sandy beaches, charming coastal towns, and vibrant city life in Chicago, providing a diverse range of activities and festivities.
3. Lake George, New York
• Often called the "Queen of American Lakes," Lake George is perfect for a family-friendly Memorial Day with its serene waters, historic sites, and array of water sports.
4. Lake Powell, Arizona/Utah
• With its striking red rock canyons and extensive shoreline, Lake Powell is ideal for boating, houseboat rentals, and exploring unique landscapes like Rainbow Bridge National Monument.
5. Lake Champlain, New York/Vermont
• Bordering the United States and Canada, Lake Champlain offers rich history, beautiful islands, and excellent opportunities for sailing, fishing, and exploring quaint lakeside villages.
6. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
• Known for its lively atmosphere and extensive coastline, Lake of the Ozarks features numerous recreational activities, waterfront restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife perfect for Memorial Day celebrations.
7. Lake Travis, Texas
• Located near Austin, Lake Travis is a favorite for its clear waters, scenic views, and fun activities like boating, jet skiing, and zip-lining, making it a great Memorial Day destination.
8. Lake Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
• Surrounded by beautiful forests and mountains, Lake Coeur d'Alene offers stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and activities such as boating, fishing, and exploring nearby hiking trails.
9. Lake Havasu, Arizona/California
• Famous for the London Bridge, Lake Havasu is a hotspot for water sports, beach parties, and family-friendly events, offering a vibrant atmosphere for Memorial Day.
10. Big Bear Lake, California
• Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake is perfect for those seeking a combination of water activities and mountain adventures, with opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and enjoying the cool mountain air.

These lakes provide the perfect backdrop for Memorial Day celebrations, combining natural beauty with a wide range of recreational activities to ensure a memorable and enjoyable holiday.

Best activities in these lakes during Memorial Day

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

1. Boating and Sailing - Explore the clear waters and scenic shoreline.
2. Hiking - Trails like the Tahoe Rim Trail offer stunning views.
3. Fishing - Catch trout, salmon, and bass in the lake.
4. Beach Picnics - Enjoy a BBQ at Sand Harbor or Kings Beach.
5. Kayaking and Paddleboarding - Rent equipment to explore the lake up close.

Lake Michigan, Michigan/Wisconsin/Illinois/Indiana

1. Beach Activities - Relax at beaches like North Avenue Beach in Chicago or Indiana Dunes.
2. Fishing - Charter a boat for salmon and trout fishing.
3. Sailing - Participate in or watch sailing events.
4. Biking - Ride along the Lakefront Trail in Chicago.
5. Festivals and Fireworks - Enjoy Memorial Day events and fireworks displays in cities like Chicago and Milwaukee.

Lake George, New York

1. Boating and Cruises - Take a scenic cruise on the lake.
2. Hiking - Explore trails like Prospect Mountain for panoramic views.
3. Fishing - Try your luck with bass, pike, and trout.
4. Parasailing - Experience the thrill of parasailing over the lake.
5. Beach Picnics and BBQs - Spend the day at Million Dollar Beach.

Lake Powell, Arizona/Utah

1. Houseboating - Rent a houseboat for a unique lake experience.
2. Kayaking and Paddleboarding - Navigate through the lake’s canyons.
3. Fishing - Fish for striped bass and catfish.
4. Exploring Rainbow Bridge - Visit the iconic natural bridge.
5. Camping - Camp on the shorelines and enjoy the night sky.

Lake Champlain, New York/Vermont

1. Sailing and Boating - Enjoy sailing on the expansive lake.
2. Fishing - Known for its bass, pike, and salmon.
3. Biking - Ride along the Island Line Rail Trail.
4. Historical Tours - Visit historic sites like Fort Ticonderoga.
5. Wildlife Watching - Spot diverse bird species and other wildlife.

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

1. Boating and Watersports - Enjoy jet skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing.
2. Fishing - Known for bass, catfish, and crappie fishing.
3. Golfing - Play a round at one of the many lakeside golf courses.
4. Dining - Visit waterfront restaurants and bars.
5. Hiking - Explore trails in Lake of the Ozarks State Park.

Lake Travis, Texas

1. Boating and Watersports - Perfect for boating, jet skiing, and wakeboarding.
2. Fishing - Known for bass fishing.
3. Zip-lining - Experience the Lake Travis Zipline Adventure.
4. Beach Picnics - Relax at Volente Beach Resort.
5. Live Music and Dining - Enjoy live music at lakeside venues.

Lake Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

1. Boating and Sailing - Rent a boat or sail on the lake.
2. Fishing - Known for its kokanee salmon and trout.
3. Hiking and Biking - Explore trails like Tubbs Hill and the Centennial Trail.
4. Wildlife Watching - Spot bald eagles and other wildlife.
5. Golfing - Play at the Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf Course, famous for its floating green.

Lake Havasu, Arizona/California

1. Boating and Watersports - Popular for boating, jet skiing, and wakeboarding.
2. Fishing - Fish for bass, catfish, and sunfish.
3. Exploring London Bridge - Visit the historic bridge and surrounding shops.
4. Beach Parties - Enjoy lively beach activities and events.
5. Off-Roading - Explore nearby desert trails with an ATV.

Big Bear Lake, California

1. Boating and Fishing - Enjoy boating and catch trout and bass.
2. Hiking and Mountain Biking - Explore trails like Castle Rock Trail.
3. Kayaking and Paddleboarding - Rent equipment for a peaceful day on the water.
4. Camping - Camp at one of the lakeside campgrounds.
5. Scenic Sky Chair - Take the ski lift at Snow Summit for stunning views.

These activities make each lake an ideal destination for a memorable Memorial Day celebration, combining natural beauty with a variety of fun and engaging activities.

Why Lake Tahoe is the Top Pick for Memorial Day

1. Stunning Natural Beauty
• Clear Waters and Scenic Views: Lake Tahoe is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking mountain scenery, making it one of the most picturesque lakes in the United States.
• Diverse Landscapes: The lake is surrounded by towering pine trees, rugged mountain peaks, and beautiful beaches, offering a variety of stunning backdrops for outdoor activities and relaxation.
2. Variety of Activities
• Boating and Water Sports: Lake Tahoe offers excellent opportunities for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. The expansive lake provides plenty of space for both relaxation and adventure on the water.
• Hiking and Biking: Numerous trails, such as the Tahoe Rim Trail, provide fantastic hiking and biking experiences with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
• Fishing: The lake is well-stocked with trout, salmon, and bass, making it a prime spot for fishing enthusiasts.
• Beach Picnics and BBQs: Beaches like Sand Harbor and Kings Beach are perfect for family picnics and barbecues, with facilities and scenic spots for enjoying a meal by the water.
3. Accessibility and Amenities
• Accommodation Options: From luxurious resorts to cozy cabins and campgrounds, Lake Tahoe offers a wide range of accommodations to suit any budget and preference.
• Dining and Entertainment: The area boasts numerous restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, ensuring plenty of options for dining and nightlife.
4. Events and Celebrations
• Memorial Day Festivities: Lake Tahoe often hosts special events, including concerts, fireworks, and community gatherings, adding to the festive atmosphere of the holiday weekend.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The lake's diverse range of activities and welcoming community make it an ideal destination for families looking to celebrate Memorial Day together.
5. Weather
• Pleasant Climate: Lake Tahoe typically enjoys pleasant weather in late May, with mild temperatures that are perfect for outdoor activities without the summer crowds.

Lake Tahoe stands out as the top pick for Memorial Day due to its unmatched natural beauty, diverse range of activities, excellent amenities, festive atmosphere, and family-friendly environment. These factors combine to offer a memorable and enjoyable holiday experience for visitors of all ages.