The Most Beautiful Lake in Wisconsin That Most People Have Never Heard Of

Lake weekends in Wisconsin are a staple of growing up in the Midwest. Yet, there’s a hidden lake in Wisconsin that has somehow stayed relatively off the radar. Often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbor, Geneva Lake, Delavan Lake is the most underrated lake in Wisconsin. With 1,906 acres of water to explore, Delavan Lake needs to be on your itinerary for your next trip to Wisconsin.

Why Most People Have Never Heard of This Lake

Delavan Lake is only a 15-minute drive away from Geneva Lake. Yet it seems that almost no one who visits Geneva Lake even knows Delavan Lake exists. Frankly, the rich and famous have had homes along Geneva Lake for decades, so it is easy to assume why that area has earned all of the attention. The town of Delavan is much sleepier. Things are quieter here, and the area exudes a quiet confidence that seems to say, “We don’t need the crowds of Geneva Lake; we’re just fine the way we are.”

What Makes This Lake So Beautiful

Of course, the water itself is beautiful at Delavan Lake. The shoreline is surrounded by lush greenery. Like Geneva Lake, Delavan Lake is scattered with stunning waterfront mansions and resorts along its shoreline. The classic Wisconsin forests alongside the impressive architecture, including cottages designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, create a fairy-tale-like atmosphere.

What You Can Do at This Lake

In warmer months, the lake turns into a summer playground. The waters are typically calm, making the lake perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and jet skiing. I even took a sunrise lakeside yoga class, the perfect way to start the day with the sound of small waves hitting the shore. For an elevated on-water experience, book a dinner cruise aboard the 76-foot Lake Lawn Queen. 

Of course, the lake is great to visit at all times of the year if you adjust your expectations. Even in wintertime, a stay in a cabin on the lake is enjoyable. A crisp afternoon stroll or run while soaking in the beautiful shoreline can't be beat.

What To Know Before You Go

The most common way to access Delavan Lake is through the boat launch (Highway 50 launch) at Community Park. Here you’ll find a concrete launch, a community beach, and opportunities to rent paddleboards and kayaks. If you choose to launch your boat (motorized or not) from here, you’ll need to pay a launch fee. There is another launch area, Blue Gill Road Access, that offers limited free parking. A favorite way to access the lake is via the facilities at the Lake Lawn Resort Marina. Visitors can rent a stand-up paddleboard from this marina and spend a lovely day on the water exploring. Plus, you’re just steps away from the resort's restaurant

Is It Worth the Trip?

As a quieter alternative to Geneva Lake, Delavan is home to easily one of the most scenic lakes in Wisconsin. The lake and the surrounding town are so easy to fall in love with. Here, visitors can enjoy lake life without the crowds of its more famous neighbor.