Dad and Son on a Paddle Boat at the Lake
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Top 10 Kid-Friendly Lakes in the U.S. for Family Vacations

ByAnita Burke

Planning a family vacation that is fun for both kids and adults can be a challenge, but lake destinations are a perfect solution! Offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, lakes across the U.S. are the perfect trip idea for making family memories. Here’s my guide to the top 10 kid-friendly lakes for your next family vacation—complete with accommodation ideas, activities, and dining options to make your trip perfect.

1. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

  • Why It’s Great: Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches are great for families. Kids can build sandcastles while parents soak in the moutain views.
  • Things to Do: Paddle boarding, kayaking, family-friendly hiking trails (like the Eagle Falls trail), and boat cruises.
  • Where to Stay:
    • The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe has luxury family suites.
    • Zephyr Cove Resort for a more rustic experience.
    • Basecamp Tahoe South for a boutique, family-friendly vibe.
    • Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino for lakeside relaxation.
  • Places to Eat: Check out Gar Woods Grill & Pier for lakeside dining and kid-friendly options like burgers and pasta.
Lake Tahoe with shore with Boats at dock and mountains in the background

2. Lake George, New York

  • Why It’s Great: Known as the “Queen of American Lakes,” Lake George combines natural beauty with family-friendly attractions.
  • Things to Do: Visit the Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course, enjoy a steamboat cruise, or relax at Million Dollar Beach.
  • Where to Stay:
    • Surfside on the Lake, which has lakeside rooms and an outdoor pool.
    • The Sagamore Resort for upscale accommodations with family activities.
    • Holiday Inn Resort Lake George for budget-friendly comfort.
  • Places to Eat: Stop by The Log Jam Restaurant for meals that kids will love.
Lake George with white boat and Mountains in the Distance

3. Lake Champlain, Vermont/New York

  • Why It’s Great: This lake has educational experiences for kids, along with water-based fun.
  • Things to Do: Explore the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, rent bikes for the Island Line Rail Trail, or go fishing.
  • Where to Stay:
    • Basin Harbor has lakeside cottages perfect for families.
    • Hotel Vermont for a cozy, modern stay.
    • North Hero House Inn & Restaurant for historic charm.
  • Places to Eat: Try the Burlington Farmer’s Market for local treats and picnic supplies.
Lake Champlain with bench and logs along shoreline

4. Lake Michigan (Sleeping Bear Dunes), Michigan

  • Why It’s Great: The massive sand dunes provide endless entertainment for kids who love to climb and slide.
  • Things to Do: Kayaking, dune climbing, and swimming at Good Harbor Bay Beach.
  • Where to Stay:
    • The Homestead Resort has family-friendly amenities and proximity to the dunes.
    • Crystal Mountain for a resort experience with pools and activities.
    • Empire Lakeshore Inn for an affordable, family-friendly option.
  • Places to Eat: Art’s Tavern in Glen Arbor is a hit with families.
Lake Michigan shoreline with buildings far in the distance and beach with rocky shoreline

5. Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

  • Why It’s Great: This New England gem has scenic beauty and small-town charm.
  • Things to Do: Mini-golf, go-kart racing, and taking a ride on the M/S Mount Washington cruise.
  • Where to Stay:
    • Mill Falls at the Lake has a variety of family-friendly lodging options.
    • The Margate Resort for lakeside fun.
    • Center Harbor Inn for a cozy lakeside retreat.
  • Places to Eat: The Woodshed Restaurant serves delicious comfort food in a cozy setting.
Lake Winnipesaukee AI

6. Big Bear Lake, California

  • Why It’s Great: A year-round destination with summer water activities and winter snow play.
  • Things to Do: Rent a pontoon boat, visit the Alpine Zoo, or explore family-friendly hiking trails.
  • Where to Stay:
    • Big Bear Frontier, which has family cabins.
    • Pine Knot Guest Ranch for a peaceful retreat.
    • Marina Resort for lakeside convenience.
  • Places to Eat: Teddy Bear Restaurant is a local favorite for breakfast and lunch.
Big Bear Lake Shoreline with wooden deck looking over at beach and mountain view at night. Stars shining bright

7. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

  • Why It’s Great: This lake is packed with family-friendly attractions, from water parks to caves.
  • Things to Do: Spend the day at Big Surf Waterpark, explore Bridal Cave, or rent a jet ski.
  • Where to Stay:
    • Margaritaville Lake Resort has pools, mini-golf, and more for families.
    • Camden on the Lake Resort for upscale family accommodations.
    • Lakeview Resort for a homey, lakeside atmosphere.
  • Places to Eat: Try JB Hooks for stunning views and a kid’s menu.
Aerial view of the lake with two speed boats going along in the water

8. Flathead Lake, Montana

  • Why It’s Great: Surrounded by mountains, this lake iss a peaceful retreat with plenty of activities.
  • Things to Do: Go cherry picking, take a boat tour, or enjoy swimming in the clear waters.
  • Where to Stay:
    • Flathead Lake Lodge, a dude ranch with lakeside activities.
    • Best Western Plus Flathead Lake Inn for affordable comfort.
    • Islander Inn for a boutique stay near the lake.
  • Places to Eat: Tamarack Brewing Company serves up kid-friendly food and craft beers for adults.
Flathead Lake Rocky Shoreline with a tree and a small dock

9. Lake Powell, Arizona/Utah

  • Why It’s Great: This unique lake has striking red rock scenery and houseboat adventures.
  • Things to Do: Rent a houseboat, hike to Rainbow Bridge, or enjoy tubing and wakeboarding.
  • Where to Stay:
    • Antelope Point Marina offers houseboat rentals and lakeside lodging.
    • Lake Powell Resort for comfortable accommodations with great views.
    • Ticaboo Lodge for a budget-friendly option.
  • Places to Eat: Grab a bite at the marina’s Floating Restaurant.
Lake Powell Aerial View

10. Caddo Lake, Texas/Louisiana

  • Why It’s Great: Known for its mysterious bayous and cypress trees, Caddo Lake is perfect for adventurous families.
  • Things to Do: Take a guided kayak tour, go birdwatching, or explore the Caddo Lake State Park trails.
  • Where to Stay:
    • Caddo Lake Cabins is a rustic yet comfortable stay.
    • Hodge Podge Cottages for quirky and cozy accommodations.
    • Historic Kahn Hotel for a unique experience.
  • Places to Eat: Try Riverbend Restaurant for Southern comfort food.
Lake Caddo Cypress Trees

Ready to Plan Your Lake Escape?

Lake vacations offer endless opportunities for fun, relaxation, and bonding. Whether you’re looking to splash in the water, explore nature, or just unwind, these lakes have something for everyone. Let me help you plan the perfect family getaway—contact me today to start creating memories that will last a lifetime!

Contact Anita

Want help planning your next lake trip?! Reach out to Anita for help!

Anita Burke is a passionate travel advisor and lake travel expert dedicated to creating unforgettable vacation experiences for families, couples, and adventure-seekers. With a background in engineering and project management, Anita combines her detail-oriented mindset with a love for travel and storytelling. As a working mom and wine lover, she understands the importance of blending relaxation, adventure, and family-friendly fun. Anita specializes in creating personalized itineraries, from lakeside retreats to international adventures, all while sharing her expertise and humor through blog posts.

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