The Best Southern Lakes to Visit in 2023

Simply put, there’s nothing quite like a day spent out on the lake. Whether you prefer fishing, boating, or simply soaking up the sun, there’s something magical about spending time on a large body of water surrounded by nature. If you’re looking to experience this magic for yourself, then look no further than the wide array of Southern Lakes, and thanks to this travel blog post from Southern Living, you’ll have all that you need to visit and enjoy some of the most beautiful and tranquil lakes in the country.

Lake Lanier, Georgia

If you’re looking for an ideal lake destination in the American South, know that you can’t go wrong with Lake Lanier. The Peach State’s Lake Lanier Islands is a resort that’s made up of over 200 guestrooms and 30 charming cottages that perch themselves above Lake Lanier. Located just north of Atlanta, Lake Lanier makes itself a convenient getaway destination for city dwellers.

But don’t let its proximity to the city fool you; the Lake Lanier Islands is a true oasis, complete with sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy at the lake, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, boating, and hiking. Then, when you’re ready to take a break from the outdoors, you can retreat to one of the islands’ many restaurants or shops. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a reliable vacation spot, Georgia’s Lake Lanier Islands is a destination that is sure to please.

Douglas Lake, Tennessee

Tennessee’s Lake Douglas or Douglas Lake is one of the best lakes in the Southern United States for a number of reasons. First, it is one of the largest lakes in the region, with over 20,000 acres of surface area. Second, it is located in a beautiful setting among the rolling hills of Tennessee. Third, it is one of the most popular and rewarding destinations for both fishing and recreation. This is because Douglas Lake is home to a variety of fish species,including bass, crappie, catfish, and trout. Lastly, Douglas Lake is surrounded by a number of parks and public access areas, making it easy to enjoy the lake whether you are camping, hiking, picnicking, or just enjoying a day out on the water. If you are looking for a great lake to visit in the Southern United States, be sure to put Tennessee’s Douglas Lake at the top of your list!

Lake Austin, Texas

Lake Austin is a wonderfully popular reservoir located on the Colorado River in Central Texas. The city of Austin owns more than 22,000 acres of land along the shores of Lake Austin, meaning that the lakeshore is also home to several public parks, including Bull Creek District Park, Emma Long Metropolitan Park, Mount Bonnell Shores Park, Red Bud Isle, West Bouldin Creek Greenbelt, and Zilker Metropolitan Park, so there’s no shortage of recreational space when you visit Lake Austin.

Lake Austin is well known for its recreational opportunities. The lake is widely considered to be one of the best places in central Texas to boat, fish, and swim. The Lower Colorado River Authority operates several public boat ramps around the lake and there are numerous private marinas as well. Fishing is popular on Lake Austin for species such as largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish. The lake is also a popular swimming destination with several public beaches open year-round.

Lake Ouachita, Arkansas

Located near Hot Springs and within the picturesque Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas’s Lake Ouachita is not only the largest man-made lake in Arkansas, but it’s one of the best lakes in the Southern United States. The lake itself encompasses 1,000 miles of shoreline and stretches over 40 acres, making its clear waters and scenic beauty the perfect destination for swimming, fishing, boating, and much more. With its towering mountains and deep blue waters, it’s no wonder Lake Ouachita is such a popular destination.

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