There’s Something Magical About These 14 Minnesota Lakes In The Summer

In the Land of 10,000 Lakes you never run out of options for aquatic recreation in the summer. From beautiful beaches to fishing coves, our lakes offer everything you need to have a magical season. These 14 lakes are some of our favorites and among the most beautiful lakes in Minnesota to visit year-round.

Bear Head Lake

One of the most beautiful lakes in Minnesota is Bear Head Lake. Located in the equally beautifu Bear Head Lake State Park, this lake is a recreation dream and looks stunning under the sunset.

2. Minnesota Lake

Named for the Land of 10,000 Lakes, it's no wonder that this lake in particular is so gorgeous. Boating, water skiing, fishing, and swimming are among the popular activities here.

3. Lake Brophy

This resort lake near Alexandria is always beautiful in the summer, and has wonderful fishing. Ask the locals and they'll tell you that Lake Brophy is among the most beautiful lakes in Minnesota.

4. Pearl Lake

This big, beautiful lake in central Minnesota is stunning. The summer sunsets here are amazing and along the shore is a great place to sit and watch as the colors change on the horizon.

5. East Gull Lake

One of the best Northern resort lakes, East Gull is surrounded by fun places to take the family!

6. Prior Lake

Prior Lake is located in its namesake town, which is one of the most beautiful parts of the state. Only a short drive from downtown Minneapolis, there are the Upper Prior Lake and Lower Prior Lake areas, together offering a wealth of watersports activities for the locals and visitors from around the region.

7. Buchanan Lake

Located in Ottertail County, scenic Buchanan Lake is a wonderful place to getaway for some peace and quiet. (By the way, there are more lakes here than any county in America!).

8. Ottertail Lake

Ottertail Lake is a spectacular large lake which has plenty of resort and recreation options. Whether you enjoy swimming, water skiing, boating, or other sports, you can enjoy them here with a backdrop of pure scenic beauty.

9. Hegman Lake

Located within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Hegman Lake stands out as one of the best lakes in Minnesota for its beauty and for the nearby pictographs.

10. Lake Winona

Whether at East Lake Winona or West Lake Winona, all of Lake Winona offers some of the best views of the bluffs, and they always look postcard ready!

11. Clear Lake

Located near the town of Gibbon, Clear Lake has some great places to camp and enjoy the summer views.

12. Little Lake Osakis

A favorite for cabin owners, this little lake in the town of Osakis is always gorgeous in the summer, particularly in the evenings.

13. Deer Lake

Beautiful Deer Lake near Grand Rapids is surrounded by charming vacation rentals and has some phenomenal views you can enjoy while fishing and boating in seclusion. It is definitely one of the most popular lakes to visit in Minnesota this summer.

14. Pelican Lake

Another favorite northern resort lake, Pelican Lake is perfect for fishing and relaxation. Nothing beats a weekend away and enjoying the spectacular sunsets here.

What is your favorite lake memory in Minnesota? We'd love to see your photos and hear about your experiences.

If you're looking for more outdoor activities, you definitely need to explore some of Minneapolis' wonderful state parks.