Across the U.S., there are so many remarkable lakes that you can enjoy. Varying in size and location, you have so many choices.

If you are looking for information on lake destinations that you and your family will enjoy, you need not look any further.

Compiled for you below is a rundown of the five most spectacular lakes for families to visit in the U.S. Each destination is sure to be a hit.

1. Big Bear Lake – California

Situated in Southern California and only a short drive from Los Angeles and Las Vegas, Big Bear Lake offers breathtaking views, all kinds of outdoor activities, and incredible cultural activities. You also have some great lodging accommodations from which you can choose. You can stay in Big Bear cabins and get even closer to nature.

Of course, you have a massive lake that you can enjoy, but you also have great hiking to thrill you during warmer months. In the colder months, you have access to some of the best skiing and snowboarding slopes and other winter recreational activities.

2. Lake Powell – Arizona and Utah

At the border of Arizona and Utah, Lake Powell offers amazing fishing and other water activities. You can also camp and hike in nearby parks. The Lake Powell area really is an outdoor paradise loaded with fun for your entire family. Did you know that Lake Powell was not finished filling up until 1980?

And although this a newer lake, you have plenty of ancient history and culture to take in and enjoy. The area was inhabited by Native Americans who without a doubt left their mark on the area. Take time to check out the eye-catching and very colorful Navajo Sandstone, and sit with your family as the sun sets to reveal an impressive sky full of bright, shining stars.

3. Lake Pontchartrain – Louisiana

When you visit Lake Pontchartrain, you get more than the traditional lake activities. Of course, you get ample space for swimming, fishing, beach fun, and boating. But you also get to enjoy life as it was during the Civil War on historic boat tours across the lake. You can even go and tour the lake’s nearby swamps home to alligators, snakes and regal birds.

And with the city of New Orleans sitting at its shores, Lake Pontchartrain is not the only popular destination in the area. You and your family can head into New Orleans for amazing restaurants, plenty of history, art, and a culturally unique experience for sure.

4. Yellowstone Lake – Wyoming

With more than 110 miles of shoreline, Yellowstone Lake has plenty of beaches. The lake, itself, covers more than 136 square miles. To say you will have enough room for whatever water activities your family enjoys would easily be an understatement. There are several bodies of water in Yellowstone National Park, but Yellowstone Lake is by far the largest and most sought-after.

And since this lake sits in a national park, you will have some of the best activities your family can enjoy that are already organized and sure to be fun. You can hike along amazing trails, go camping, and you can have some up-close and personal experiences with some of the rarest and wildest animals living in the U.S.

5. Lake Michigan – Wisconsin

Although Lake Michigan is shared by Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin, you should check out the Wisconsin side of the water. Both Green Bay and Milwaukee sit next to the lake, and both cities are sure to be a hit with your entire family.

In Green Bay, you can head to the iconic Lambeau Field, which is home to the NFL’s Green Bay Packers. While there, you can even get a tour of the stadium and run out on to the field through the tunnel the players run out through each Fall. In Milwaukee, you can enjoy the Harley Davidson Museum and see how beer is made at several well-known American breweries.

Which Lake Do You Want to Visit First?

Are you having a hard time choosing between the five lakes covered above? That is not surprising, as each lake offers so much. No matter which destination you choose, you and your family will indeed have a spectacular time.