If you want a lake vacation out west, you don’t have to go to the ocean. Although, the Pacific Ocean is pretty great out west the water is COLD. So, instead of freezing to death try a relaxing lake vacation. There are lots of lake areas to choose from, but here are just a few places you might consider.
Oregon
Crater Lake National Park in Southern Oregon, USA. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Crater Lake in south-central Oregon is one you don’t want to miss. This is a National Park and Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the U.S. There is a lodge and campground in the park. Klamath Falls is not too far away if you wanted to stay in a town. Fun fact: I lived in Klamath Falls for 7 months in 2002. My mom is still having nightmare flashbacks to the time I took her sledding at Crater Lake and we all sunk a little too deep, but that’s a story for another day.
Crater Lake is known for having clear, deep blue water. It is simply stunning to look at. Now to you, this may be no big deal, but I grew up in Odessa and I was a grown woman before I saw a lake with clear water. Most of the lakes in Texas are usually not see-through, to say the least.
In the summer there are many activities to enjoy including boat or trolley tours, hiking, fishing, and swimming. There are also ranger talks and some evening programs for all ages. You can even take a volcano boat tour.
In the summer you will want to go along Rim Drive and see the scenic views all around the lake. There are also paths for walking or biking. The trails are usually open from July to October, depending on the weather. Be sure to check their website for open dates. They close their campgrounds earlier than you would think. I once may have camped overnight illegally here in my car because the campground was closed.
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Washington State
Lake Chelan photo by Deb who blogs at http://www.momof3girls.net
Lake Chelan in north-central Washington State is the largest natural lake in the whole state. It is a narrow lake, but over 50 miles long. Plus, it’s the 3rd deepest lake in the United States. The lake is about 4 hours east of the Seattle area and is surrounded by mountains and vineyards. If you get car sick, take a Dramamine because the roads out here are curvy.
Lake Chelan is a mecca for water lovers, as you can try jet-skiing, water skiing, kayaking, parasailing, canoeing, tubing or rowing. Parts of the lake are great for sailboats and windsurfing, too. Since the lake is crystal clear, you can also give snorkeling a try.
If you enjoy fishing and having fresh fish for meals, this area is great. You can fish for Burbot, Rainbow Trout, Chinook and Sockeye Salmon, and Smallmouth Bass.
Restaurants in the Lake Chelan Valley offer something for everyone and often include wine from the local vineyards. For a quick bite during the day there are plenty of takeout options, too.
Havasu Falls near Supai, Arizona. The water is blue/green due to high concentrations of dissolved lime picked up as the water runs through the sedimentary rock of Havasu Canyon and the Grand Canyon. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Arizona
Known as a spring break destination, Lake Havasu is so much more. Whether you love the water or the desert, you can have it all in Lake Havasu.
The sun is always shining and there are over 400 miles of shoreline along the lake. There are hotels, resorts, campgrounds, and general campsites right on the lakeshore. You can also rent a houseboat.
Lake Havasu is known for water sports. You can water ski, wakeboard, swim or go Jet Skiing. Rent a boat or bring your own to enjoy the lake.
If you want a unique view, try a hot air balloon ride. If you prefer to stay on the ground you can join a walking tour or rent a jeep.
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