Gorgeous Lakes to Explore This Summer in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota

Minnesota and the Dakotas are filled with an abundance of gorgeous lakes to explore, and in the summer, these scenic lakes are destinations for camping and relaxing day trips on the water. Let’s look at several pristine lakes to experience in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota this summer.

Lake Vermilion is a massive lake that stretches for more than 40,000 acres. This shallow freshwater lake is one of Minnesota’s most popular summer getaway spots and comprises numerous lodges and resorts surrounding the lakeshore. A haven for boating and water sports, Lake Vermilion is dotted with numerous small islands where boaters can dock and explore.

Lake Kabetogama is a picturesque and clear lake stretching 25,760 acres in northern Minnesota. The quiet and remote lake is in Voyageurs National Park, one of Minnesota’s most stunning natural destinations. Staying at one of the nearby lodges, resorts, or campgrounds offers easy access to clear water and is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the incredible nature of Minnesota.

Lake Minnetonka is one of the most famous lakes in Minnesota. Situated just south of Minneapolis, Lake Minnetonka is a gorgeous lake best known for its incredible seasonal summer homes. Many celebrities, from Prince to Alex Rodriguez, have had mansions along the shores of Lake Minnetonka. It is a busy waterway filled with boaters and anglers in the summer, and it has pleasant restaurants along the shore.

Devils Lake is North Dakota’s largest natural body of water and an important hub for outdoor fun. The gorgeous prairie lake has been ranked among the top lakes in the country for fishing, as the waters are teeming with perch, walleye, pike, bass, and more. Devils Lake is a popular resort destination, and its waters are often busy with boaters and water sports enthusiasts.

Lake Sakakawea is a large and winding lake in central North Dakota and one of the largest artificial lakes in the country. The 368,000-acre reservoir is a significant destination for anglers, boasting an abundance of fish species, from Chinook salmon to rainbow trout. In addition to the lake and its superb fishing scene, Lake Sakakawea State Park is lined with beaches and campgrounds.

Lake Oahe, a vast reservoir in South Dakota, is one of the most popular tourist sites in the region, visited by more than 1.5 million people every year. Lake Oahe is a huge body of water that has about 2,250 miles of shoreline and over 50 recreation areas on the shore. Visitors go to the lake to water ski, boat, and much more, and can stay at hotels, resorts, and campsites nearby. 

Lake Sharpe is a narrow lake that runs for 80 miles through South Dakota, covering almost 57,000 acres. It is one of South Dakota’s most popular angling destinations, housing large populations of freshwater catches such as bass, walleye, catfish, and pike. Lake Sharpe is a pleasant place for a summer getaway and has 19 recreation areas that offer tranquil places for hiking, picnicking, and camping by the water.