The 14 biggest lakes in New York City
New York State is home to some magnificent bodies of water, but the title of the "Biggest Lake in New York" goes to Lake Ontario. This massive freshwater lake boasts a surface area of over 7,300 square miles and shares its shores with the United States and Canada. Its vastness and stunning beauty make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, who enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing in its clear waters. As the 14th largest lake in the world, Lake Ontario's impressive size and natural beauty make it a true gem of New York State.
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1. Skaneateles Lake
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Skaneateles Lake is one of New York's most famous Finger Lakes, known for its large size and stunning beauty. Covering an area of 8,800 acres, it is one of the largest lakes in the state, offering plenty of space for various water activities. Visitors are drawn to the lake's clear, clean water and scenic views, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The lake's pristine condition is due to the efforts of the Skaneateles Lake Association and the Skaneateles Lake Watershed Association, which work to protect the lake from pollution and invasive species. The lake's water is so clean that it is regularly used as a source of drinking water for the city of Syracuse, located about 20 miles away. The lake is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including fish, birds, and plants, making it a great spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Skaneateles Lake is one of New York's most famous Finger Lakes, known for its large size and stunning beauty. Covering an area of 8,800 acres, it is one of the largest lakes in the state, offering plenty of space for various water activities. Visitors are drawn to the lake's clear, clean water and scenic views, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The lake's pristine condition is due to the efforts of the Skaneateles Lake Association and the Skaneateles Lake Watershed Association, which work to protect the lake from pollution and invasive species. The lake's water is so clean that it is regularly used as a source of drinking water for the city of Syracuse, located about 20 miles away. The lake is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including fish, birds, and plants, making it a great spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Chautauqua Lake
Hosts the historic Chautauqua Institution, a renowned center for arts and education
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Chautauqua Lake, located in the southeast corner of Chautauqua County, is the largest inland lake in western New York. It spans an impressive 17 miles in length and 1.3 miles in width, with a surface area of 13,156 acres. The lake is a popular destination for outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming, and is surrounded by charming towns and villages that offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Chautauqua Lake is known for its exceptional water quality and diverse aquatic life. It is home to over 80 species of fish, including walleye, bass, and muskellunge, making it a sought-after destination for anglers. The lake is also a vital resource for the local community, providing drinking water for over 70,000 residents in the area. In addition, the lake's scenic beauty and recreational opportunities contribute to the region's tourism industry, generating significant economic benefits for the surrounding communities.
Chautauqua Lake, located in the southeast corner of Chautauqua County, is the largest inland lake in western New York. It spans an impressive 17 miles in length and 1.3 miles in width, with a surface area of 13,156 acres. The lake is a popular destination for outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming, and is surrounded by charming towns and villages that offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Chautauqua Lake is known for its exceptional water quality and diverse aquatic life. It is home to over 80 species of fish, including walleye, bass, and muskellunge, making it a sought-after destination for anglers. The lake is also a vital resource for the local community, providing drinking water for over 70,000 residents in the area. In addition, the lake's scenic beauty and recreational opportunities contribute to the region's tourism industry, generating significant economic benefits for the surrounding communities.
3. Black Lake
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The Black Lake, located in New York, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, particularly in the 1,000 Islands region. Covering a surface area of 7,855 acres and boasting a 29 kilometer-long shoreline, the lake is a perfect spot for outdoor activities and relaxation. Although it is not one of the largest lakes in New York, it is still significant in its own right, with a surface area of 7,593 acres and over 60 miles of coastline.
New York is home to seven of the 100 largest lakes in the United States, although Black Lake does not make the list. However, it is the largest lake in St. Lawrence County, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. With its vast expanse of water and miles of coastline, Black Lake offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation, making it a great place to visit in New York.
The Black Lake, located in New York, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, particularly in the 1,000 Islands region. Covering a surface area of 7,855 acres and boasting a 29 kilometer-long shoreline, the lake is a perfect spot for outdoor activities and relaxation. Although it is not one of the largest lakes in New York, it is still significant in its own right, with a surface area of 7,593 acres and over 60 miles of coastline.
New York is home to seven of the 100 largest lakes in the United States, although Black Lake does not make the list. However, it is the largest lake in St. Lawrence County, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. With its vast expanse of water and miles of coastline, Black Lake offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation, making it a great place to visit in New York.
4. Keuka Lake
Known for its unique 'Y' shape and picturesque surroundings
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Keuka Lake is a small and charming body of water, popular for its clean and clear appearance. It is an ideal destination for various outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, and even camping. The lake features a small beach playground and a boat launch area. Nearby, the town of Penn Yan offers a selection of wineries and is known for its well-maintained parks. However, visitors should be aware that the area may have limited TV and cell phone reception.
Keuka Lake is a wonderful vacation spot for people from all walks of life. During the summer months, the lake is abuzz with water activities such as boating, kayaking, jet skiing, water skiing, and tubing. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the Esperanza Rose cruise ship offers lunch and dinner cruises around the lake. In addition to these recreational options, Keuka Lake is also a picturesque setting for a range of activities, including hiking and biking, making it the perfect destination for a memorable getaway.
Keuka Lake is a small and charming body of water, popular for its clean and clear appearance. It is an ideal destination for various outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, and even camping. The lake features a small beach playground and a boat launch area. Nearby, the town of Penn Yan offers a selection of wineries and is known for its well-maintained parks. However, visitors should be aware that the area may have limited TV and cell phone reception.
Keuka Lake is a wonderful vacation spot for people from all walks of life. During the summer months, the lake is abuzz with water activities such as boating, kayaking, jet skiing, water skiing, and tubing. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the Esperanza Rose cruise ship offers lunch and dinner cruises around the lake. In addition to these recreational options, Keuka Lake is also a picturesque setting for a range of activities, including hiking and biking, making it the perfect destination for a memorable getaway.
5. Lake Champlain
Connects New York, Vermont, and Quebec with over 80 islands
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Lake Champlain, located in the United States, is a significant body of water with a length of 120 miles and a width of 12 miles at its widest point. It contains 71 islands, has 587 miles of shoreline, and has an average depth of 64 feet, with a maximum depth of 400 feet. The lake is situated between the states of New York and Vermont, making it a popular vacation spot for residents of both states.
As a traditional vacation destination, Lake Champlain offers a range of recreational activities for visitors from New York and Vermont. Water sports such as boating, fishing, and swimming are popular during the summer months, while winter activities include ice fishing and snowmobiling. The lake is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 300 species of birds, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. With its natural beauty and variety of recreational activities, Lake Champlain is a cherished destination for residents and visitors alike.
Lake Champlain, located in the United States, is a significant body of water with a length of 120 miles and a width of 12 miles at its widest point. It contains 71 islands, has 587 miles of shoreline, and has an average depth of 64 feet, with a maximum depth of 400 feet. The lake is situated between the states of New York and Vermont, making it a popular vacation spot for residents of both states.
As a traditional vacation destination, Lake Champlain offers a range of recreational activities for visitors from New York and Vermont. Water sports such as boating, fishing, and swimming are popular during the summer months, while winter activities include ice fishing and snowmobiling. The lake is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 300 species of birds, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. With its natural beauty and variety of recreational activities, Lake Champlain is a cherished destination for residents and visitors alike.
6. Lake Erie
Connects four states and one Canadian province, making it a symbol of international cooperation and shared natural resources
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Lake Erie has been recognized as the best lake in the USA TODAY's 2024 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. This recognition is well-deserved as Lake Erie is the warmest and shallowest of the Great Lakes, making it an ideal location for fishing and diving.
The shallow depth of Lake Erie causes it to warm up faster than its counterparts, creating an ideal environment for fish to thrive. As a result, fishing is a popular activity in Lake Erie, with a diverse range of fish species available for anglers. Additionally, the lake's temperate waters are great for diving, with many underwater attractions to explore, such as shipwrecks and colorful marine life.
Lake Erie has been recognized as the best lake in the USA TODAY's 2024 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. This recognition is well-deserved as Lake Erie is the warmest and shallowest of the Great Lakes, making it an ideal location for fishing and diving.
The shallow depth of Lake Erie causes it to warm up faster than its counterparts, creating an ideal environment for fish to thrive. As a result, fishing is a popular activity in Lake Erie, with a diverse range of fish species available for anglers. Additionally, the lake's temperate waters are great for diving, with many underwater attractions to explore, such as shipwrecks and colorful marine life.
7. Great Sacandaga Lake
Man-made lake with a fascinating history and hydropower generation
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The Great Sacandage Lake is a large, man-made body of water that was constructed in the 1930s. Unlike the more commercialized Lake George, the Great Sacandage Lake is free of tourist traps and features many restaurants. One unique feature of the lake is that it is essentially two lakes in one. The southern end of the lake spans five miles in width and is ideal for family camping, sailing, and fishing. It also offers scenic views of relatively flat land, making it a popular spot for those who enjoy fishing or cruising in larger pontoon and powerboats.
Moving further north, the landscape around the lake becomes more hilly and rocky. This area is perfect for those who enjoy more secluded and private recreational activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing in quieter waters. The northern end of the lake is also a great spot for hiking and exploring the surrounding wilderness. Despite the different landscapes and recreational opportunities offered at each end of the lake, the Great Sacandage Lake remains a single, connected body of water that offers something for everyone.
The Great Sacandage Lake is a large, man-made body of water that was constructed in the 1930s. Unlike the more commercialized Lake George, the Great Sacandage Lake is free of tourist traps and features many restaurants. One unique feature of the lake is that it is essentially two lakes in one. The southern end of the lake spans five miles in width and is ideal for family camping, sailing, and fishing. It also offers scenic views of relatively flat land, making it a popular spot for those who enjoy fishing or cruising in larger pontoon and powerboats.
Moving further north, the landscape around the lake becomes more hilly and rocky. This area is perfect for those who enjoy more secluded and private recreational activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing in quieter waters. The northern end of the lake is also a great spot for hiking and exploring the surrounding wilderness. Despite the different landscapes and recreational opportunities offered at each end of the lake, the Great Sacandage Lake remains a single, connected body of water that offers something for everyone.
8. Seneca Lake
Seneca Lake is the deepest of the Finger Lakes in New York and is known for its unique geological features and cultural significance
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The Seneca Resort at Sampson State Park offers a top-notch camping experience with well-equipped bungalow cottages and a variety of outdoor activities. The marina is perfect for boaters, with slips available, and there's also a small beach, playground, and kayak rental options. While it's not a hotel experience, the resort is ideal for those who love long walks, nature, boating, and swimming.
Seneca Lake, located near Watkins Glen, is truly breathtaking with its stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters. The marina, featuring a pier and a charming red "school house" building, is a must-visit. Take a walk on the jetty for an even more spectacular view. Additionally, booking a "cruise" on the Seneca Spirit is highly recommended for a memorable experience on the lake.
The Seneca Resort at Sampson State Park offers a top-notch camping experience with well-equipped bungalow cottages and a variety of outdoor activities. The marina is perfect for boaters, with slips available, and there's also a small beach, playground, and kayak rental options. While it's not a hotel experience, the resort is ideal for those who love long walks, nature, boating, and swimming.
Seneca Lake, located near Watkins Glen, is truly breathtaking with its stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters. The marina, featuring a pier and a charming red "school house" building, is a must-visit. Take a walk on the jetty for an even more spectacular view. Additionally, booking a "cruise" on the Seneca Spirit is highly recommended for a memorable experience on the lake.
9. Cayuga Lake
New York's second largest lake with 41 miles in length and 3.5 miles at its widest point
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Cayuga Lake is a stunning body of water, known for its length and varied experiences. It is the second-deepest and longest of the Finger Lakes, offering many opportunities for enjoyment. For two decades, a sailboat at Treman Marina allowed for amazing experiences on the lake with another family.
Cayuga Lake is renowned for its expansive size and the activities it hosts. At approximately 40 miles long, it offers plenty of space for various activities such as boating, sailing, swimming, and fishing. Notably, it reaches the shores of Ithaca, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking water-based recreation.
Cayuga Lake is a stunning body of water, known for its length and varied experiences. It is the second-deepest and longest of the Finger Lakes, offering many opportunities for enjoyment. For two decades, a sailboat at Treman Marina allowed for amazing experiences on the lake with another family.
Cayuga Lake is renowned for its expansive size and the activities it hosts. At approximately 40 miles long, it offers plenty of space for various activities such as boating, sailing, swimming, and fishing. Notably, it reaches the shores of Ithaca, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking water-based recreation.
10. Oneida Lake
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Oneida Lake, located in Central New York, is the largest lake entirely within the state's boundaries. It is situated in Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, and Oswego counties, and is only surpassed in angling popularity by Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. This lake is renowned for its exceptional fishing, particularly for walleye and perch.
Freshwater fishing is a popular activity in Oneida Lake, which is home to various species. Its walleye and perch populations are particularly noteworthy, attracting numerous anglers each year. The lake's location, northeast of Syracuse, NY, makes it easily accessible for many enthusiasts looking to catch these highly sought-after fish species.
Oneida Lake, located in Central New York, is the largest lake entirely within the state's boundaries. It is situated in Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, and Oswego counties, and is only surpassed in angling popularity by Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. This lake is renowned for its exceptional fishing, particularly for walleye and perch.
Freshwater fishing is a popular activity in Oneida Lake, which is home to various species. Its walleye and perch populations are particularly noteworthy, attracting numerous anglers each year. The lake's location, northeast of Syracuse, NY, makes it easily accessible for many enthusiasts looking to catch these highly sought-after fish species.
11. Lake Ontario
Largest of the Great Lakes by surface area
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Lake Ontario is the easternmost of the Great Lakes, and although it is the smallest in surface area (7,340 sq mi, 19,000 km²), it contains a greater volume of water than Lake Erie (393 cu mi, 1,640 km³). This makes Lake Ontario significant in its own right, despite being overshadowed in size by its fellow Great Lakes. In fact, Lake Ontario is large enough to be the 14th largest lake in the world, further emphasizing its importance.
As the smallest of the Great Lakes, Lake Ontario covers a total area of 7,340 square miles (19,000 km²), making it a significant body of water in its own right. While it may not be as expansive as the other Great Lakes, it still ranks as the 14th largest lake in the world, with a volume of 393 cubic miles (1,640 km³). This highlights the impressive size and scope of Lake Ontario, even if it is sometimes overshadowed by its larger counterparts.
Lake Ontario is the easternmost of the Great Lakes, and although it is the smallest in surface area (7,340 sq mi, 19,000 km²), it contains a greater volume of water than Lake Erie (393 cu mi, 1,640 km³). This makes Lake Ontario significant in its own right, despite being overshadowed in size by its fellow Great Lakes. In fact, Lake Ontario is large enough to be the 14th largest lake in the world, further emphasizing its importance.
As the smallest of the Great Lakes, Lake Ontario covers a total area of 7,340 square miles (19,000 km²), making it a significant body of water in its own right. While it may not be as expansive as the other Great Lakes, it still ranks as the 14th largest lake in the world, with a volume of 393 cubic miles (1,640 km³). This highlights the impressive size and scope of Lake Ontario, even if it is sometimes overshadowed by its larger counterparts.
12. Allegheny Reservoir
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Red Bridge campground is a highly recommended camping site, known for its wooded campsites that offer privacy and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for campers. Some campsites are even located right next to the water, providing a stunning view and a great location for various water activities.
The lake at Red Bridge is surrounded by beautiful nature, making it an ideal spot for fishing and enjoying the great outdoors. Visitors can take a fishing trip in June and stay at a nearby hotel, or return for a camping and fishing trip in September. The fishing can be challenging, but the lake's breathtaking scenery makes it a worthwhile experience. Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, or simply enjoy some quality time in nature, Red Bridge is the perfect destination.
Red Bridge campground is a highly recommended camping site, known for its wooded campsites that offer privacy and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for campers. Some campsites are even located right next to the water, providing a stunning view and a great location for various water activities.
The lake at Red Bridge is surrounded by beautiful nature, making it an ideal spot for fishing and enjoying the great outdoors. Visitors can take a fishing trip in June and stay at a nearby hotel, or return for a camping and fishing trip in September. The fishing can be challenging, but the lake's breathtaking scenery makes it a worthwhile experience. Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, or simply enjoy some quality time in nature, Red Bridge is the perfect destination.
13. Conesus Lake
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Conesus Lake is one of the smaller lakes in the Finger Lakes region of New York, but it still offers a wonderful setting for a peaceful day. The lake is known for its beauty and the range of activities it provides, such as boating and fishing. Its smaller size contributes to a more intimate and tranquil atmosphere.
Conesus Lake has a unique charm that makes it an appealing destination. The area features several parks, enhancing its appeal for those seeking a relaxing retreat. Visitors come to the lake to enjoy its serene environment, making it an ideal spot for unwinding and connecting with nature.
Conesus Lake is one of the smaller lakes in the Finger Lakes region of New York, but it still offers a wonderful setting for a peaceful day. The lake is known for its beauty and the range of activities it provides, such as boating and fishing. Its smaller size contributes to a more intimate and tranquil atmosphere.
Conesus Lake has a unique charm that makes it an appealing destination. The area features several parks, enhancing its appeal for those seeking a relaxing retreat. Visitors come to the lake to enjoy its serene environment, making it an ideal spot for unwinding and connecting with nature.
14. Green Lake
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Green Lakes State Park is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including one of the largest lakes in the area. This lake, known as Green Lake, is a popular spot for outdoor activities like kayaking and paddle boating due to its calm and serene waters. The lake's unique blue-green color is a major draw for visitors and contributes to the park's overall beauty.
Visitors to Green Lakes State Park should not miss the opportunity to see Green Lake up close. The lake's clear, emerald waters are truly stunning, and offer a peaceful setting for a variety of water activities. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to explore this beautiful lake and take in the breathtaking views. Whether you're looking to relax and enjoy the scenery or get out on the water for some exercise, Green Lake is the perfect destination.
Green Lakes State Park is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including one of the largest lakes in the area. This lake, known as Green Lake, is a popular spot for outdoor activities like kayaking and paddle boating due to its calm and serene waters. The lake's unique blue-green color is a major draw for visitors and contributes to the park's overall beauty.
Visitors to Green Lakes State Park should not miss the opportunity to see Green Lake up close. The lake's clear, emerald waters are truly stunning, and offer a peaceful setting for a variety of water activities. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to explore this beautiful lake and take in the breathtaking views. Whether you're looking to relax and enjoy the scenery or get out on the water for some exercise, Green Lake is the perfect destination.