Wisconsin is home to countless naturally formed lakes, more than any other American state -- except Alaska and Minnesota (though this is certainly debated heavily depending on which statistics you're looking at). With so many incredible lakes found within our borders, it can be hard to choose a favorite, so we polled our readers on our Only In Wisconsin Facebook page and our Wisconsin Nature Lovers Facebook group. These 16 lakes all stood out as some of the state's most beautiful, and we hope you'll take advantage of the next warm weekend to make a splash in one of the best lakes in Wisconsin. These places are perfect for fishing, boating, swimming, and water recreation of all kinds.
1. Lake Tomah
With a maximum depth of 19 feet and a size of 245 acres, Lake Tomah, located in Monroe County, boasts four public boat landings. The lake is home to panfish, largemouth bass, and northern pike. While water clarity is low, the sunsets are truly second to none.
2. Pope Lake
Though small - measuring at just 21 acres in size - the undeveloped Pope Lake is an absolute treasure. Fishing is one of the most popular activities here, though we think there's little more peaceful than an afternoon spent exploring the lake via kayak.
3. Lake Pepin
Nestled on the border between Wisconsin and Minnesota, Lake Pepin is the largest lake on the Mississippi River. It is often considered one of the most scenic areas in North America. It is not only considered the birthplace of Laura Ingalls Wilder (Pepin) but where the sport of waterskiing was invented (Lake City). It's also home to Pepie, a world-famous lake monster.
4. Devil's Lake
Devil's Lake State Park is the state's most popular, and it's easy to see why. This scenic lake is absolutely heavenly - despite its name - and is a popular destination for swimming and hiking with two large, sandy beaches and some truly epic trails sure to fuel your sense of adventure.
5. Lake Redstone
This one-of-a-kind man-made lake features little public property as well as lots of development and power boats, but it happens to be one of the area's coolest paddling lakes. Why? The unique red stone bluffs scattered across the lake, but concentrated in the section. You've got to add Lake Redstone to your bucket list.
6. Lake Minocqua
At more than 1,300 acres
Lake Minocqua is an absolute treasure. The name Minocqua means "noon day rest," and is translated from the Ojibwe word "Ninocqua." It is indeed an idyllic spot for a mid-day rest, don't you think?
7. Geneva Lake
A popular resort destination in Southeastern Wisconsin, the 5,000-acre Geneva Lake features six public boat landings as well as half a dozen beaches perfect for those who don't have access to a boat!
8. Lake Of The Pines
This 273-acre lake is a popular fishing spot, with access to musky, panfish, largemouth bass, and walleye. Those who want to spend a weekend at the lake will love staying at the Lake Of The Pines Campground, which is typically open from mid-April through mid-December, and features nature trails, ATV trails, a swimming beach, and more.
9. Fish Lake
Perhaps one of the most fascinating destinations on this list, Fish Lake is the casualty of rising waters in northwestern Dane County that destroyed several homes and covered roadways and acres upon acres of property. If you visit, you might just feel as though you're paddling through a ghost town.
10. Lake Joanis
With crystal-clear waters, the 24-acre Lake Joanis protects a variety of aquatic and shoreline habitats. Swimming is not allowed, but the lake is a perfect destination for beginner paddlers and a 1-mile trail loops around the lake and features stunning views.
11. Pike Lake
With a maximum depth of 45 feet and a size of 461 acres, Pike Lake is perfectly sized for fishing, relaxing, and even ATVing along the shore. Walleye is abundant and you can explore the lake from one of three boat landings and a public beach.
12. Lost Land Lake
With a 10 mph speed limit, visitors to Lost Land Lake and the neighboring Teal Lake will enjoy a quiet oasis perfect for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. Extend your day on the water to an entire weekend when you stay at the Lost Land Lake Lodge, which is nearly a century old and features five rustic cabins and phenomenal lake views.
13. Spider Chain of Lakes
Located 14 miles northeast of Hayward,
Spider Chain of Lakes is a sprawling beauty. Comprised of five interconnected lakes, there is endless natural beauty to explore here.
14. Lake Van Zile
Located within both Florence and Forest counties, Lake Van Zile is a peaceful gem that measures in at 78 acres. Visitors can enjoy fishing or a picturesque picnic -- or both!
15. Shawano Lake
Measuring in at more than 6,200 acres,
Shawano Lake is a hard water drainage lake with multiple inlets and one major outlet - the Wolf River. It is a popular destination for boating, swimming, fishing, water skiing, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities.
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16. Marl Lake, Chain o'Lakes
The teeny-tiny 14-acre
Marl Lake is the perfect destination for a leisurely float. Part of the Waupaca Chain O' Lakes, which includes 22 interconnected lakes, this crystal-clear lake is home to musky, panfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, and walleye.
Fun fact: Did you know that there are more than 100 lakes in Wisconsin with the same name -- mud lake. Another popular lake name in Wisconsin is Long Lake, with 59 bodies of water sharing the name. If you enjoy reading about the best lakes in Wisconsin, you'll love our recent article, The Most Remote Lake In Wisconsin Is Also The Most Peaceful. Join our Wisconsin Nature Lovers Facebook group to discover more epic photographs like this and share your own.
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