10 Lakes in the Midwest to Visit

Heading to the lake for some fun in the water can create some of the best memories. With that in mind, you’ll want to visit these ten lakes in the Midwest.

Maybe all you’ve got is a weekend to spend at the lake; that’s ok. Weekend trips to nearby lakes can be a lot of fun and give you the time away from work where you can decompress and relax. Let’s take a look at some of the most enjoyable lakeside locations around the Midwestern part of the United States.

Take Your Family to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Not only will you find the lakeside experience you desire, waterways that are amazing, and a wonderful place to boat, but you’ll enjoy the surrounding area as well. Lake Geneva is home to some incredible downtown shops, restaurants, and outdoor adventure locations. You’ll find four beaches along the lake with places to put your boat in the water and take it out for a ride. There are many hiking paths around Lake Geneva, which might offer you some native wildlife viewing opportunities.

Kinkaid Lake Can be a Wonderful Place for a Day Trip

You can go for a day, a weekend, or more, but this lake in southern Illinois is a great place to enjoy some time in the outdoors. You’ll love the natural area around Kinkaid Lake, where you can spend some time camping and enjoying the beauty around you. If you want to get away from civilization for a little while, this is the lake that’s right for you. There’s a three-level waterfall along the spillway, offering pools where you can cool down on a hot day.

One of Many, Lake Mille Lacs is a Great Place to Visit in Minnesota

Lakes in Minnesota are more than just for summer fun; but when the air is warm, and the water is flowing, Lake Mille Lacs can be a great place to go. You’ll be glad to spend some time fishing, boating, and hiking around this lake. Of course, if you head to Lake Mille Lacs in the winter, this is one of the lakes in the Midwest where you’re sure to have a great time during the winter months as well.

Make Some Family Memories at the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri

One of the best lakes in the Midwest for your family and friends to visit is the Lake of the Ozarks. You can have a lot of fun boating, hiking, fishing, and exploring some caves around the area. There are also many cool local attractions to keep your kids entertained when you’re not on the lake. You could spend an entire week at this lake and have a wonderful time together.

Iowa has Some Great Lakes; Check Out Lake Okoboji

Lake Okoboji is one of the most enjoyable family-friendly lakes in the area where you can take your family and friends for a great weekend or week-long vacation by the water. Enjoy the amazing public beaches, take a ride on the Queen II during a guided tour, and enjoy some of the incredible resorts in the area. Even if you’re not experienced at fishing, you can learn how and catch a big fish during one of the many tours and expeditions.

Torch Lake, Michigan has Some Beautiful Water

If you want one of the best lakes in the Midwest with the water color and feeling you want, Torch Lake is a great place to go. This lake in Michigan is near Traverse City, and the water of this lake is cool and gorgeous with a blue-green color. Torch Lake is 19 miles long and offers you great ways to enjoy water sports, including water skiing, jet skiing, and tubing. Check out the various lodges in the area and find the right place to stay.

Geneva State Park Gives You Access to Lake Erie

The park is also called Geneva-on-the-Lake, and it’s located along the shoreline in northeastern Ohio. This location offers you access to one of the Great Lakes of the United States, and it’s a wonderful place to go camping in a tent or cabin. You can swim, boat, and hike while staying at Geneva State Park. You’ll love the long beaches, the family-friendly atmosphere, and some of the most scenic views you’ll find in the Midwest.

Head to Lake Wawasee for a Midwest Vacation in Indiana

Most people would never think to visit Indiana for vacation unless it was for the Indy 500, but Lake Wawasee will change your mind. This is the largest natural lake in Indiana, and it offers you one of the best lakes in the Midwest for a vacation. There’s a lot of cool things to do that will fill an entire week, including boating, swimming, and fishing. If you want to make some memories and enjoy some wonderful experiences with your family, head to Lake Wawasee.

The Scene Around Sylvan Lake in South Dakota is Incredible

Sylvan Lake is located within the Black Hills and Custer State Park. That alone should be enough of a reason for you to want to go to this lake. Head to South Dakota and enjoy the hike along the Sylvan Lake Shore Trail, which is only one mile long. You’ll love swimming, kayaking, and fishing in beautiful Sylvan Lake. Get ready for one of the most family-friendly and fun places to spend some time outdoors.

Take Your Family to Devil’s Lake and State Park for Some Fun

Devil’s Lake State Park is located in the center of Wisconsin, and it has a ton of great activities for children to have some fun. Your kids can enjoy hands-on exhibits, and you can take them out on the water in one of the boats offered at the rental locations around the lake. There are two swimming beaches for you to have a great time in the water. When you’re not getting wet, you can take a guided hike along the trails or head into town for some wonderful food.

Which one of these amazing lakes in the Midwest will be the place you take your family this year? It’s time for a wonderful experience in the outdoors at one of these lakes.