Few things in life bring about a sense of serenity and calm quite like a lakeside escape. Any outdoors enthusiast will tell you that there are a million reasons to plan a relaxing aquatic adventure. One of the biggest is to get in touch with nature, and there are plenty of places to do just that with more than 102,000 lakes in the US.

If you’re looking for the best of the best combining pristine, crystal-clear waters with perfect swimming conditions and inviting vacation rentals, you’re in luck! Let’s dive into some of the cleanest lakes in the States together.

1. Lake Michigan (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin)

Bordered by Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin, Lake Michigan sees nearly 20 million visitors annually who come to enjoy a host of seasonal sports. As the largest lake solely belonging to one country, it’s a genuine American icon.

Its deep blue waters have been the source of a thriving fishing industry. And along its shorelines, you’ll find famous cities like Chicago, Milwaukee, and Green Bay. All of which offer a plethora of exciting entertainment to enjoy during your lakeside getaway.

The lake is home to countless species like elk, moose, gray wolves, black bears, and Canada lynx. And beyond its waters, there are countless must-visit lakeside destinations. A couple you shouldn’t miss include the Indiana Dunes National Park and Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore.

2. Lake Tahoe (California and Nevada)

Needing no introduction, Lake Tahoe is synonymous with lake excursions and outdoor experiences. Along its shores, there is an abundance of activities ranging from swimming and boating to downhill skiing.

Shared by California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. Fresh water from the Sierra Nevada mountains constantly feeds its crystal clear waters. Known worldwide for its beauty and phenomenal purity, over 15 million visitors come to enjoy its shores every year.

Lake Tahoe becomes even more of a bucket list destination when you add the many casinos, waterfront dining options, and idyllic shoreside bike paths to the mix. Plus, there are a number of lake cruises and a variety of hiking trails to indulge in as well. No wonder more people come to Lake Tahoe than Disney Land or Yosemite National Park!

3. Crater Lake (Oregon)

Crater Lake, located within Crater Lake National Park, is the deepest lake in the US at a whopping 1,943 feet. Formed inside what remains of the Mount Mazamea Volcano, its intensely blue waters are pure eye candy and the perfect spot for a photo op.

Tiptoeing the line between sapphire and cobalt, Crater Lake’s water is considered one of the cleanest in the world. Fed primarily by rain and snowmelt, no streams or rivers run into or through the lake, resulting in exceptionally clear and pristine water quality.

Several unique features add to the lake’s allure, including the “Old Man of the Lake,” a 30-foot tree stump that has been bobbing vertically in its waters for more than a century. During the summer, hiking, fishing, and camping take center stage, making for an ideallic lakeside retreat.

4. Lake Coeur d’Alene (Idaho)

Spanning 25 miles, Lake Coeur d’Alene is the crown jewel of the Coeur d’Alene region in Idaho. Although the entire area features over 55 lakes left behind by the Ice Age, few compare to its main attraction, which formed roughly 15,000 years ago.

Home to captivating beaches and mind-blowing views, the lake is often framed by bald eagles flying against classic Idaho sunsets. One of the most famous lakeside features is the North Idaho Centennial Trail. This multi-use recreational trail, dating back to 1807, is a great opportunity to trek the Idaho and Washington state lines through breathtaking forests along the lake’s shoreline.

5. Newfound Lake (New Hampshire)

Within the Wellington State Park Region, Newfound Lake comes in as one of the most striking lakes in the New Hampshire Lakes Region, and for good reason. Surrounded by near-ethereal natural beauty, it’s well worth a visit (or two).

Reaching a depth of 183 feet, the 6-mile-long lake boasts the purest fresh water in New Hampshire, thanks to eight underground springs feeding water into the basin. While it’s not the biggest, its gently sloping hills, docile waves, and sandy beaches pack a big punch. And the region’s 48-acre nature sanctuary is pivotal to the preservation of bald eagles.

Among the numerous reasons to visit, Newfound Lake also boasts a 100-year-old lighthouse which was once an integral part of the steamboat industry. As for outdoor fun, the lake provides ample opportunities for boating, swimming, sunbathing, and hiking.

6. Lake Chelan (Washington)

Named after the traditional Wenatchi People’s name for deep water, Lake Chelan is hands down one of the state’s most beautiful bodies of water. Cutting through the landscape like a cerulean sword, it offers dramatic views of the Northern Cascades.

Ranking as the third deepest lake in America, Chelan reaches a depth of 1,486 feet along the Wapato and Lucerne Basins. Thanks to melting glaciers dating back to the Ice Age roughly 21,000 years ago, the lake is encircled by rugged mountains, giving it a distinct fjord-like feel.

Lake Chelan’s grand emerald hue blends into navy blue the deeper you go. Its shoreline is guarded by steep slopes and mountainous peaks. Home to various plant and animal species, it’s a popular spot for boating, hiking, fishing, and resort vacations. Enjoying an average of 300 days of sunshine, it’s no wonder more than two million visitors flock to Chelan annually.

7. Hanging Lake (Colorado)

Rounding out the list is the almost otherworldly Hanging Lake in Colorado. Declared a National Natural Landmark, this stunning lake sits at the precipice of Glenwood Canyon’s Cliff. More than an acre of the lake fell away from the fault line, resulting in truly epic scenery. The lake showcases bright, sparkling waters and is only accessible via a scenic (and moderately strenuous) two-hour hike.

Despite its remote location, it remains one of Colorado’s most popular destinations, with standout features like Bridal Veil Falls. Of course, the scenes of staggering cliff sides meeting a delicate travertine shoreline surrounding the tiny emerald-green Hanging Lake are reason enough to go.

And there you have it! Seven of the cleanest lakes in the United States that are worthy of a visit. Have you been to any of these locations? Comment below, I’d love to hear what you think of them!

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