Labor Day Lake Getaways

I don’t know why, but there’s something about nearing the end of summer that makes me want to book a lake getaway. I love the idea of renting a kayak, floating along, soaking in the breeze, and dangling my feet in the water! Lakes are perfect whether you’re looking to fill your days with lazier activities or more exciting adventures. Not to mention – there are so many different accommodation choices, whether you want to rough it camping, check into a luxurious resort, or find something cozier. As for me, I’d like to rent a quiet cottage right on the lake with views of the mountains. Just a little peace and quiet amidst the bustle of summer and the preparation for back to school!

Here are a few lake getaway ideas around the United States to get you dreaming of your own.

Lovely Lake Getaways to End the Summer

Sylvan Lake, Custer State Park, South Dakota

Located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, there’s a lot to love about Custer State Park, and one of them is the beautiful Sylvan Lake. I mean, the name alone! When you arrive, you’ll immediately notice the tall, craggly cliffs that overlook the water. It’s the type of view that’ll have you questioning why a term like “flyover country” even exists. There’s a total of 17 acres of water to enjoy, whether you want to hike the trail around the lake or go swimming. As for staying over, you can either reserve a spot at its nearby campground or stay at the very pretty Sylvan Lake Lodge. 

Lake George, Adirondacks, New York

Nicknamed “the birthplace of the original vacation,” one of the best things about Lake George is that you can truly make any trip your own, whether you want to bring a tent and camp or stay somewhere a bit more luxurious. The only mandatory thing to do is to get out on the lake and, of course, relax in an Adirondack chair. (You are, after all, in its namesake region). If you’re going to splurge, I can’t recommend Sagamore at Bolton Landing enough. You’ll get a fun (and family-friendly) vacation right on the lake with some of the most beautiful views. 

Jackson Lake, Wyoming

One of the most beautiful lakes you will ever see is in the majestic Grand Teton National Park. In my dreams, I’m sailing along this almost 15-mile lake located at the base of the Tetons. The scenery is stunning, and you can spend your hours watching wildlife, boating, and sitting on the deck enjoying a cold one. Oh, and there’s the town of Jackson Hole nearby, where you can escape for live music, shopping, and dinner. Stay at Jackson Lake Lodge to take advantage of the views!

Big Bear Lake, Southern California

Surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest in Southern California, Big Bear Lake is considered one of the world’s sky island forests. (This is why, despite its southern location, you can ski here in the winter!) If you want your outdoor adventures with a side of arts and theater, then you’re going to love Big Bear as much as I did. Base yourself at Noon Lodge, a revamped mountain retreat from the 1950s, and get on the water via Holloway’s Marina. For a more unique activity, head to Betty’s Buggies to drive around the forest in a 60s/70s style eco-friendly dune buggy! 

Lake Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Another fun, family-friendly lake destination, Lake Coeur d’Alene, is a good place to park for a week and play in the water. Enjoy the sunny beaches, water skiing, tubing, jet skiing, kayaking, fishing, and touring the area by cruise or seaplane. And if you’re a golfer, know this is home to the world’s only floating green! Stay at Coeur d’Alene Resort to take it easy this vacation. 

Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

I may be biased towards Lake Winnipesaukee since it is in my home state of New Hampshire, but it is a gorgeous spot for a getaway. The whole Lakes region is fantastic – there are 273 bodies of water to choose from. Winnipesaukee is the largest lake and has a stunning wooded shoreline. For something special, book a dinner cruise or Sunday brunch aboard the M/S Mount Washington.

Lady Bird Lake, Austin, Texas

Here’s a lake spot for those of you who want to combine your lake getaway with city life! Austin, in general, has such an excellent mix of outdoor fitness, watersports, live music, and good eatin’. Lady Bird Lake, sometimes known as Town Lake, is a river-like reservoir with numerous options for getting out onto the water. If you’re feeling exceptionally sturdy, try a SUP class with EpicSUP.

Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada

There’s so much that goes on at Lake Tahoe; your mind will spin just trying to fit it all into a long weekend. You have to be smart and focused. I recommend you do the following in no particular order. First, enjoy the lake and shoreline doing your choice of water sports or just hanging out on the beach. Drive and then hike up to Emerald Bay for the incredible vistas (arrive before 10 am). Take your chairs, beverages, and snacks, and head to the waterfront for a fantastic display of fireworks. Get a seat along the shore where you are pretty close to the show, which is choreographed to music. You’ll have a lovely, relaxing weekend before you start back to work and school.

Finger Lakes, New York

With 11 lakes to choose from, each with its distinct personality, you are sure to find a lake you love in the Finger Lakes. The whole region spans 9,000 square miles, stretching across Syracuse to Rochester in the north and near the PA border down south. Trust me, you’re going to want multiple visits in the future to get to know what each lake and surrounding community offers! There’s a ton of history along with lake culture here, and of course, this is one of the best wine regions in the country! If it’s your first time, I’d stay towards the southern end at either Hammondsport on Keuka Lake or Watkins Glen on Seneca Lake. Nearby Corning has a ton to do, including a fabulous glass museum!

Crater Lake, Oregon

Are you the type that’s always trying to take the perfect landscape photo? If so, Crater Lake will inspire your inner creativity with its deep blue purity and mountain backdrop. Go during the summer and you’ll experience one magical day after another in the cool and clean mountain air. This is the deepest lake in the US at 1,943 feet and has some of the clearest water found anywhere in the world. You’ll plan some time to hike around to get a perfect view of Wizard Island (a cinder cone). I’d then either camp or stay at the Crater Lake Lodge. Take your kids to enjoy everything the lake has to offer, plus see some incredible lava formations and built-in geology lessons while exploring the park.

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

The Lake of the Ozarks has all the makings of the perfect family vacation. In addition to boating, water sports, bass fishing, hiking, and golf, you can relax at Spa Shiki with a regular massage or more unique treatments like the Amai Chocolate Body Wrap. Nearby is Super Splash USA, where your kids can whirl and twirl down the white water rapids while you lazily float down a 600-foot river. Stay at The Lodge of Four Seasons so dad can book his tee time and meet everyone for lunch!

Lake Havasu, Arizona

Going off-road to explore the wilderness? Lake Havasu has a lot to offer both in and around the water. When you’ve had your fill of water sports, rent a Jeep and tour the rocky surroundings, or take a hot air balloon high over the lake to see how everything looks from way up above. If you’re like me and always looking for the perfect hike, then you love the treks offered around Lake Havasu. Trails around the lake showcase the stunning Arizona scenery, and depending on your mood and skill level, there is something for everyone. And be sure to check out London Bridge for a place to stay.

Lake Michigan, Traverse City, Michigan

Considering it’s the second largest of the Great Lakes, I’m not surprised Lake Michigan borders four different US states! If you’re not sure where exactly to go, I’d say go right to Traverse City. Stay at the gorgeous Grand Traverse Resort & Spa for easy access to the area and the lake itself. One of the coolest things to do is visit Sleeping Bear Dunes, one of three national lakeshores in the country. Like the name suggests, there are a bunch of different dunes you can climb. There’s a great one with a view of Little Glen Lake, and then there’s the crazy one that feels like climbing a 34-story building. And if you give up on this climb, it’s a cool few thousand to get airlifted out. You’re also in the land of cherries, so check out spots like Cherry Republic for all sorts of goods and get onto the lake with Wind Dancer Tall Boat. Also, if you want a little, not-so-secret gem, Leelanau Cheese specializes in raclette cheese and has won worldwide awards!

Flathead Lake, Montana

What beats cool temperatures, wild horses, and magnificent mountain views? Flathead Lake is stunning and nearly perfect for adventure lovers and those looking to unwind on a boat. One of the best things to do is horseback riding, which is very popular in the area. You’ll get an excellent guide, making it easy to explore and see all the scenery and wildlife. If you’re looking for something that makes your heart pound, then book one of the rafting adventures. And from what I’ve heard, the fishing is pretty good too!! The lake has the added benefit of being about an hour from Glacier National Park, so you can easily extend your stay and go on to one of the best national parks in the US.

Lake Chelan, Washington

If you like wineries, gourmet restaurants, and small-town charm, then Lake Chelan is your dream lake getaway. I could move in for the summer and never get bored!  Top of the list is, of course, the boating and water sports, but then afterward head to a wine tasting experience at one of the 20 wineries in the area. You’ll discover some not-so-well-known vintages, and many of the wineries serve amazing food to complete the culinary experience. The little ones will have so much fun at Lake Chelan’s fun bowling center, dad can go play a round of golf, and mom can hit the spa for some much-needed rejuvenation. Count me in!

Lake Oconee, Georgia

Located halfway between Atlanta and Augusta, Lake Oconee has something for the more rustic nature-seekers and refined luxury types. You can elect to stay at The Ritz Carlton Lodge and enjoy the lake from a luxurious lounger or secure a campsite for you and your boat along the lake’s beautiful banks. While golf is one of the big attractions of this area (being so close to Augusta), there are many family-friendly activities and musical events. Head out for a day of shopping where the boutiques offer decorative antiques, fashion, and jewelry. If you are a fan of geocaching, it’s popular at Lake Oconee. There are nearly 200 active caches cultivated by local geocachers, making it even more fun to hunt and seek.

Have you ever planned a lake getaway? Share all about it in the comments!