Best Boating Lakes

The best places for boating generally have a few important things in common.

First, the best boating lakes offer you multiple ramps or access points. In other words, launching and docking your boat is super easy because you aren't limited to a single ramp or marina. Second, there are plenty of opportunities for fishing or other types of water activities. Third, there are protected bays or inlets that provide calm waters for boaters of all experience levels.

Best Boating Lakes in the US

Now that you know what to look for when making a decision about where to go boating, check out a few examples of some of the best boating lakes in the US. Which would you visit first?

Lake Havasu, Arizona and California

With over 400 miles of shoreline and a prime location in a temperate climate, Lake Havasu is often considered one of the top lakes for boating in the U.S. There are a number of marinas and launch ramps that make it simple to enjoy the boating lifestyle. Figuring out where to rent a boat on Lake Havasu isn't difficult either. There are dozens of boat rental companies that offer houseboats, powerboats, kayaks, and canoes.

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

If you are wondering where to boat in the Midwest, Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri is an option worth exploring. The lake covers over 84 square miles and is a well-known summer boating destination. Lake of the Ozarks has approximately nine public access ramps, several full service marinas, boat rental companies, scenic boat tours, and fishing charters.

Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Florida

The Kissimmee Chain of Lakes includes several lakes, starting with Cypress Lake in the north to Lake Kissimmee in the south. These lakes are open year-round, are known for being some of the best lakes for largemouth bass fishing, and have multiple public ramps for boat access.

Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada

Surrounded by the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe is one of the largest and most scenic lakes in the U.S. The lake's crystal clear waters make it a top boating, fishing, and watersports destination. Public ramps are available for use at Tahoe Vista Recreation Area and Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park.

Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin

Boaters who visit Lake Winnebago usually come prepared with plenty of fishing gear and tackle. As Wisconsin's largest inland lake (covering about 215 square miles), Lake Winnebago is not just an ideal lake for leisurely boat cruises, but also offers anglers some of the best walleye fishing in the state. Since there are 20 boat ramps that are open to the public, you won’t have a hard time getting out to find the fish.

Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

Lake Winnipesaukee is considered to be one of the best places in New Hampshire for boating because of its many secluded coves and picturesque islands. You can rent a boat from one of the marinas on the lake or trailer your own. There are close to a dozen public and private locations on the lake where you can launch to enjoy fishing, cruising or dockside dining.

Find out where you can rent a boat, take boating classes, boat charters and more.