5 Best Family Lake Vacations in the USA in 2025

Looking for a fun family getaway — how about a lake vacation that offers a splash of fun, a touch of relaxation, and a whole lot of adventure? Home to over three million freshwater lakes, the United States is teeming with outdoor experiences for every family member.

But which lakes offer the best family vacations in the country? Whether you’re looking to chill on the beach, paddle around in a kayak, or explore nearby attractions, this guide unpacks the best family lake vacations in the US that will make your family trip unforgettable.

Tip: Find special places to stay near the lakes by searching “rent a cabin near me.”

1. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

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Lake Tahoe is a gem straddling the California-Nevada border. Boasting crystal-clear waters and majestic mountain backdrops, the lake is a dynamic destination. It offers year-round fun, like paddling and kayaking in the warm seasons and skiing or sledding in the colder ones.

You’ll find plenty of kid-friendly activities in Lake Tahoe. Kids will enjoy building sandcastles along the shores at Sand Harbor and Kings Beach. Explore nature with kids by hiking along the Rainbow Trail to potentially spot some wildlife. The Taylor Creek Visitor Center is a great starting point for self-guided hikes. It also offers picnic tables, restrooms, and beach access.

Emerald Bay State Park offers more hiking trails where you can catch the iconic view of Lake Tahoe’s island. For water-based activities, try paddleboarding, kayaking, or renting a boat to explore the lake’s massive size. In winter, you can admire the lake while gliding down the snowy slopes. Skiing and snowboarding are great activities suitable for all skill levels.

2. Lake George, New York

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Lake George is a classic family vacation spot offering a charming small-town feel and a beautiful lake setting. Nestled in the stunning Adirondacks, it’s packed with activities that cater to all ages. The lake is surrounded by theme parks, arcades, and mini-golfing spots.

The Great Escape & Splashwater Kingdom, located about six miles south of Lake George, is an amusement park brimming with rides, slides, and entertainment for every age. To explore the lake itself, there are boating and parasailing outfitters ready to take you for a spin.

For an immersive exploration of Lake George and the Adirondacks, consider camping at Lake George Escape Campground. It doesn’t offer direct access to the lake but has onsite activities, ranging from mini-golfing to tubing, swimming, and fishing on the Schroon River.

Taking your child on an adventure may come with challenges, but in Lake George, you’ll only struggle with deciding on activities. Add an educational element to your trip by visiting the Fort William Henry Museum, where kids can enjoy interactive exhibits and reenactments. 

3. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

Lake of the Ozarks is a vibrant destination with a lot to offer for family fun. Known for its scenic beauty and countless activities, from splashing about in water parks and mini-golfing to zooming around race tracks. It’s simply a place where boredom doesn’t stand a chance. 

There are loads of outdoor activities around the lake. Visit Lake of the Ozarks State Park, a hub for entertainment offering scenic hiking trails, camping sites, picnic areas, boating and fishing opportunities, as well as guided tours to explore the iconic Ozark Caverns.

When the weather doesn’t permit outdoor adventures, you can spend the day at the Jolly Mon Indoor Water Park. Here, you and your kids can enjoy an activity pool with games, slides, a lazy river for floating, and a 21-seat whirlpool for ultimate family relaxation. 

This park is located within the Margaritaville Lake Resort, but you don’t have to be a guest there to access the water park. Entry fees cost $25 per person, and kids two years old and under enter free. 

More indoor fun awaits at Jetz Trampoline Park. This is an excellent spot for physical activity on rainy days or when you just need the kids to play out their energy. Lake of the Ozarks also provides many restaurants and kid-friendly eateries like the Malted Monkey. 

4. Lake Powell, Arizona/Utah

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Imagine an adventure movie set come to life with dramatic red rock landscapes and vast, winding waters — that’s Lake Powell. Set along the mighty Colorado River, this reservoir offers a range of family activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, and jet-skiing.

A unique way to explore Lake Powell is by renting a houseboat to stay on the lake and make the water your playground. For a bit of educational fun, explore Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park, where you can enjoy slot canyon guided tours as you learn about their history. Defiance House is also worth a visit for a sneak peek into the life of Ancestral Puebloans.

Outdoor activities in Lake Powell include hiking the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, cliff jumping at The Chains, and splashing around at the Wahweap Swimming Spot.

5. Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

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Set at the foothills of the White Mountains, Lake Winnipesaukee offers a delightful mix of outdoor fun and small-town charm. It’s an idyllic spot for a family vacation with plenty to see and do, including fishing, cruising on the waters, swimming, and lounging at Weirs Beach.

Take a ride on the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad for a fun trip around the lake. Boating is a must when visiting this lake, and you can rent everything from speedboats to kayaks. And for a relaxed day along the shore, spend your day at Ellacoya State Park. It offers picnic tables, a kid’s playground, swimming spots, campsites, and BBQs to cook up a tasty lunch.

Lake Winnipesaukee also features many amusement parks, like Funspot and Daytona Fun Park, where your kids can enjoy thrilling rides, arcades, and race tracks. If you don’t have much time to explore this enormous lake, Weirs Beach is the go-to spot for family-friendly activities. You’ll have access to thrill parks, cruises, train rides, and mini-golfing.

Next Read: Check out these benefits of going on a winter holiday as a family.