Your day-to-day life may include work, kids, and many other commitments that’ll leave you dreaming of downtime to relax. What better way to get away from it all than with a trip to a tranquil lake? Book a stay at one of many lakefront New York vacation rentals for your upcoming getaway. Without further ado, take a look at the 10 best lakes in New York.
1. Allegany Reservoir
Allegany Reservoir sits in the middle of the Allegany State Park that makes it home in both New York and Pennsylvania. While out hiking the trails around the lake, your family can explore a couple of the caves in the area. Two public fishing piers make it easy to catch a few fish for dinner back at your vacation rental. If you don’t want to cook, take the family into town for dinner at the Barrel House Restaurant and Tavern. Afterward, stop at Country Pines Ice Cream Shop for a cool treat.
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2. Belmont Lake
Inside Belmont Lake State Park, this lake is a popular summer destination. The visitor’s center rents rowboats, kayaks, and pedal boats to families that want to get out and explore the water. There are abundant trout and bass in the lake so bring your fishing gear. Bring your hiking boots or bikes to explore the wetlands around the lake on the more than seven miles of trails. Chicken and Soul Food offers a great meal with something for everyone in the family. Take the kids to the American Airpower Museum to see the cool planes used by the military.
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3.Chautauqua Lake
Chautauqua Lake occupies more than 700 acres and is a favorite for families looking to get away and sail. While fishing from a boat or dock, it’s possible to catch muskellunge. Take the kids to one of the several public beaches on this lake or opt for an afternoon cruise on the Chautauqua Belle. a sternwheeler steamboat. Rent a pontoon boat from Chautauqua Marina and stock up on fishing gear before heading out onto the lake. Enjoy an elegant, upscale dinner with your sweetie at The White Carrot.
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4. Canandaigua Lake
Canandaigua Lake is a popular destination, especially during the summer months, for fishing and boating. There are four public launch ramps and five marinas to rent boats, kayaks, and water bikes along with all the supplies you need. The biggest draw is Squaw Island that features a unique rock formation. In the summer months, there’s an old fashion paddleboat that takes visitors for a tour of the lake. Simply Crepes Cafe offers a flavor for everyone in your family from sweet to savory. For a quick meal or carry out option, Faro’s Pizzeria offers all your favorite toppings.
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5. Canadice Lake
Canadice Lake is the smallest and least developed of the Finger Lakes. Enjoy the peace and quiet while you spending the day kayaking around the shores or fishing from one of the remote locations. On the east side of the lake, you can launch your boat while on the west are hiking trails. Swimming isn’t allowed in this lake but dogs are welcome on the trails. Pick up a pizza at Sammy’s Place for dinner or opt for a sit-down meal at The Honeoye Boat House Grille.
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6. Greenwood Lake
Extending between New York and New Jersey, Greenwood Lake offers many family-fun things to do. The town with the same name offers a dedicated beach area with lifeguards on duty so you can soak up the sun while the kids splash in the water. Numerous marinas around the lake provide boat rentals, bait, gas, and supplies. In the winter months, split your time between snowmobiling around the lake and skiing at Mount Peter Ski Area.
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7. Forked Lake
As a section of the 740-mile Northern Forest Canoe Trail, Forked Lake sees a lot of traffic for people on canoes and in kayaks exploring the water and shores. On both the east and west side of the lake, there are places to get your own boat in the water. The visitors center rents kayaks so you can experience part of the trail. Nearby Hoss’s Country Corner has a little of everything from gifts and souvenirs to books and groceries.
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8. Conesus Lake
Year round, Conesus Lake offers a lot of fun activities for guests. In the winter months, snowmobiling and ice fishing are popular. Summertime sees people flocking to the water for days of boating, swimming, and fishing. The lake has four public ramps to launch a boat from. If you’re traveling with older family members, take a tour of the Deer Run Winery and enjoy sampling the wines at the end. Go-karts, laser tag, and mini golf are the highlights of the Minnehans Fun Center.
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9. Keuka Lake
One of the most popular of the Finger Lakes, Keuka Lake is the one that’s shaped like a ‘y’. In the summer months, this shallow lake warms up quickly, and you can find numerous marinas and launches along its shores. For families with older members, this area is known as the Finger Lakes Wine Country. The Keuka Lake Wine Trail offers tours and tickets to five of the area’s best wineries.
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10. Lake Owasco
Spend your days swimming and boating on Lake Owasco. One of the biggest attractions is the numerous hiking trails and the five waterfall that you find along them. On the north end of the lake, Emerson Park offers a picnic area and a boat ramp. Hire Finger Lakes Fishing Charters for a day out on the water fishing for your dinner. Get tables on the outdoor patio at Oak and Vine At Springside for a family meal.
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