10 Beautiful Lakes In Wisconsin, USA, For A Dreamy Vacation

1. Minocqua Lake

Starting in northern Wisconsin, Minocqua Lake tends to be a popular destination of pure water bliss through all seasons. From water skiing, boating, fishing, and swimming in the summer to snowmobiling and ice fishing in the winter, many outdoor activities are made available for you here. While the spring can be accompanied by bird-watching, lots of hiking trails amongst the colorful autumn leaves await to be explored. Located in a large chain of lakes, you can create lifelong memories at this peaceful “lakeland” area of Wisconsin.

Website: Minocqua Lake

2. Lake Winnebago

Close to cities like Milwaukee, Green Bay, and Madison, where you can book a rental, Lake Winnebago is spread over 131939 acres (53393.8 hectares). It is definitely the largest lake in Wisconsin and one of the largest inland lakes in USA. There is a public beach for swimming, besides 13 public parks to plan a picnic, a visit to limestone cliffs, and a hiking path through the rich forests around. In the lake, you can explore islands, coves, and reefs in a canoe or kayak, besides fishing and enagaging in water sports.

Website: Lake Winnebago

3. Castle Rock Lake

In the central area of Wisconsin, you will find this beautiful lake to plan your vacation near the water. Considered the fourth largest lake in Wisconsin, Castle Rock Lake is a man-made reservoir and covers 12981 acres (5253 hectares). With sandy shorelines and blue waters, it’s a great spot for swimming, skiing, sailing, and boating. While it’s a world apart with its natural beauty and spectacular sunsets, Castle Rock Lake is also conveniently close to major cities like Chicago, Minneapolis, Milwaukee, and Madison.

Website: Castle Rock Lake

4. Lake Pepin

Right at the border of Wisconsin and Minnesota, you can visit Lake Pepin. There are two interesting things about the place you should know before packing for your trip. The waters of Pepin is the birthplace of water skiing, created by Ralph Samuelson in 1922. Besides, it’s home to the only lighthouse of Mississippi that is still working. It’s a popular destination for swimming, boating, fishing, and bird watching. Furthermore, the highway around has bakeries, wine bars, and gift shops.

Website: Lake Pepin

5. Lake Monona

Close to Wisconsin’s capital city Madison, Lake Monona is the second largest in the Yahara chain of lakes. With 3359 acres (1359 hectares), and the Capitol dome as the backdrop makes the landscape even more stunning and unique while you enjoy any water sport or sit on a park bench. It’s the recreational centerpiece of the area, where locals and tourists engage in activities, explore the public beaches or hike and bike the trails around.

Website: Lake Monona

6. Petenwell Lake

Following Winnebago, Petenwell Lake is the second largest lake in Wisconsin, with 23173 acres (9378 hectares). In the north of Castle Rock Lake, a dam was created in 1948. Nowadays, the waters of this reservoir attract visitors from inside the state and out for recreational activities. Skiing, sailing, and fishing are the most popular things to do while visiting on a vacation or a weekend getaway. The west shoreline of the lake even has a campground for adventurers, surrounded by wilderness.

Website: Petenwell Lake

7. Wazee Lake

Wazee Lake is one of the deepest lakes in Wisconsin with a maximum depth that can reach 350 feet (106.7 meters). Built on a former iron mine quarry, the clear waters of the lake is a haven for scuba divers. If you prefer the surface, there are boats to fish or take a tour around the lake while enjoying the scenery. Along the shores of Wazee Lake, you can find a beach, hiking trails, bike paths, and campsites with picnic areas and scenic views.

Website: Wazee Lake

8. Lake Mendota

Close to the beautiful Lake Monona, Lake Mendota is the largest of the four lakes in Madison. With expensive condominiums and homes around the shoreline and Governor Nelson State Park in the northwest, this spot in Wisconsin is famous for its five beaches. Three of them even have lifeguards. Besides, you can plan a romantic picnic in one of the areas available for this! You can also bring children to play in the playground, or call your friends for hikings, fishing, and watching the gorgeous sunset views.

Website: Lake Mendota

9. Lake Chippewa

There is an artificial lake heading north, that was created in 1924. Known for its spectacular natural scenery and undeveloped islands, Lake Chippewa is the third largest lake in Wisconsin, spread over 14593 acres (5905 hectares). Forests with walking trails and campsites for picnics are an invitation to stop by after a busy day, for a weekend getaway, or even a long trip. Fishing and bird watching are great activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Website: Lake Chippewa

10. Lake Wingra

The city of Madison is home to some of the most beautiful lakes in Wisconsin, USA. This one is not only close but within Wisconsin’s capital. Surrounded by Vilas Park Beach, Henry Vilas Zoo, and Wingra Park to the north and The University of Wisconsin–Madison Arboretum to the south, lies the small Wingra Lake. Whether it’s a whole weekend or just an afternoon, it’s a lovely place to have a good time and enjoy an urban environment.

Website: Lake Wingra

Start planning your lakeside vacation in Wisconsin

Whether you are a nature lover or a sports addict looking for the perfect shoreline to explore, relax, and enjoy your deserved vacation, Wisconsin offers you all. With lots of natural and artificial lakes, ocean-like beaches, miles of hiking trails, and fishing spots, there are endless possibilities for you in Wisconsin, USA. Don’t forget to share them with your friends on social media!