30 Best Lakes in Wisconsin

Wisconsin, known as the “Land of Lakes,” is home to an abundance of beautiful lakes that offer breathtaking views and a wide range of recreational activities. From swimming and boating to fishing and hiking, these lakes provide endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy nature’s beauty. In this article, we will explore the 30 best lakes in Wisconsin, highlighting their unique features and attractions.

Best Lakes in Wisconsin

Source: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources / Flickr

1. Lake Winnebago

Lake Winnebago is the largest inland lake in Wisconsin, spanning over 137,700 acres. This picturesque lake is a popular destination for fishing, with an abundance of walleye, perch, and white bass. It also offers opportunities for boating, sailing, and water skiing.

2. Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan, one of the Great Lakes, borders the eastern shores of Wisconsin. With its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches, it is a paradise for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and even surfing along the lake’s coastline.

3. Green Lake

Green Lake, located in central Wisconsin, is known for its pristine waters and scenic beauty. It offers a wide range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and water skiing. The lake is also surrounded by charming lakeside towns that offer quaint shops and restaurants.

4. Lake Mendota

Lake Mendota, situated in Madison, is one of the four lakes that make up the Yahara River Chain. It is a popular spot for sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The lake is also home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Memorial Union Terrace, where visitors can enjoy live music and stunning sunset views.

5. Lake Minocqua

Lake Minocqua, located in the heart of the Northwoods, is a favorite destination for fishing and boating enthusiasts. It is also surrounded by charming resorts and cabins, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing vacation.

6. Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva, often referred to as the “Newport of the West,” is a popular tourist destination in southeastern Wisconsin. With its crystal-clear waters and stunning mansions along the shoreline, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and luxurious living. Visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, and exploring the charming lakeside town.

7. Big Green Lake

Big Green Lake, located in central Wisconsin, is the deepest inland lake in the state. It is a popular spot for fishing, with an abundance of trout, walleye, and bass. The lake also offers opportunities for boating, sailing, and water skiing.

8. Lake Monona

Lake Monona, another one of the Yahara River Chain lakes, is situated in downtown Madison. It is a popular spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by parks and bike trails, making it a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

9. Lake Delton

Lake Delton, located in the Wisconsin Dells, is a man-made lake that offers a variety of water activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, jet skiing, and water skiing, as well as exploring the nearby water parks and attractions.

10. Lake Koshkonong

Lake Koshkonong, situated on the Rock River, is one of the largest lakes in southern Wisconsin. It is a popular spot for fishing, with an abundance of catfish, bass, and northern pike. The lake also offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, and birdwatching.

11. Lake Waubesa

Lake Waubesa, part of the Yahara River Chain, is located just south of Madison. It is a popular spot for fishing, with an abundance of panfish, bass, and musky. The lake also offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, and swimming.

12. Lake Poygan

Lake Poygan, located in east-central Wisconsin, is a favorite destination for anglers. It offers excellent fishing opportunities for walleye, perch, and northern pike. The lake also provides a serene setting for boating and birdwatching.

13. Lake Butte des Morts

Lake Butte des Morts, part of the Winnebago Pool, is a popular fishing spot known for its walleye and white bass. It also offers opportunities for boating, water skiing, and swimming.

14. Lake Holcombe

Lake Holcombe, located in northwestern Wisconsin, is a scenic lake surrounded by forests and rolling hills. It is a popular spot for fishing, with an abundance of musky, walleye, and bass. Visitors can also enjoy boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

15. Lake Wissota

Lake Wissota, situated near Chippewa Falls, offers a variety of recreational activities. It is a popular spot for fishing, with an abundance of walleye, bass, and panfish. The lake also provides opportunities for boating, water skiing, and swimming.

16. Lake Redstone

Lake Redstone, located in Sauk County, is a beautiful lake known for its clear waters and rocky shoreline. It offers excellent fishing opportunities for bass, panfish, and northern pike. Visitors can also enjoy boating, kayaking, and swimming.

17. Lake Nokomis

Lake Nokomis, situated in northern Wisconsin, is a favorite spot for fishing and water sports. It offers excellent fishing opportunities for musky, walleye, and panfish. The lake also provides a scenic setting for boating and kayaking.

18. Lake Tomahawk

Lake Tomahawk, located in the Northwoods, is a charming lake known for its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches. It offers excellent fishing opportunities for musky, walleye, and bass. Visitors can also enjoy boating, swimming, and picnicking.

19. Lake Onalaska

Lake Onalaska, situated on the Mississippi River, is a popular spot for fishing and boating. It offers excellent fishing opportunities for catfish, walleye, and sauger. The lake also provides a scenic setting for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

20. Lake Arrowhead

Lake Arrowhead, located in central Wisconsin, is a favorite destination for fishing and boating enthusiasts. It offers excellent fishing opportunities for bass, panfish, and northern pike. The lake also provides opportunities for water skiing, kayaking, and swimming.

21. Lake Wazee

Lake Wazee, located in Black River Falls, is a unique lake known for its crystal-clear waters and submerged rock formations. It offers excellent diving opportunities, with depths reaching up to 355 feet. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, fishing, and picnicking.

22. Lake Camelot

Lake Camelot, situated in Rome, is a popular spot for fishing and boating. It offers excellent fishing opportunities for bass, panfish, and northern pike. The lake also provides opportunities for water skiing, kayaking, and swimming.

23. Lake Chippewa

Lake Chippewa, located in northern Wisconsin, is a favorite destination for fishing and water sports. It offers excellent fishing opportunities for musky, walleye, and panfish. The lake also provides a scenic setting for boating and kayaking.

24. Lake Kegonsa

Lake Kegonsa, part of the Yahara River Chain, is located just south of Madison. It is a popular spot for fishing, with an abundance of panfish, bass, and musky. The lake also offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, and swimming.

25. Lake Beulah

Lake Beulah, situated in southeastern Wisconsin, is a beautiful lake known for its clear waters and sandy beaches. It offers excellent fishing opportunities for bass, panfish, and northern pike. Visitors can also enjoy boating, swimming, and picnicking.

26. Lake Holcombe

27. Lake Wissota

28. Lake Redstone

29. Lake Nokomis

30. Lake Tomahawk

Conclusion

Wisconsin’s lakes offer a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful fishing spot, a scenic boating destination, or a sandy beach for swimming, the 30 best lakes in Wisconsin have something to offer everyone. So pack your bags, grab your fishing gear, and get ready to explore the natural beauty of Wisconsin’s lakes.