Wisconsin is one of the best states in the U.S. to take a lake vacation. While it’s not known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” like its neighbor Minnesota, Wisconsin boasts quite a few impressive lake regions. Each of the nine lakes in this list has great outdoor activities for people of all ages, on the water and off. And each one has nearby lake house/vacation rentals that accommodate big families.
Green Lake
Green Lake is both a lake and the town of Green Lake, which are located in central Wisconsin. The town boasts plenty to do for visitors, but activities and vacation rentals on the water are the biggest draws. The lake allows boats, jet skis, kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding – all of which you can rent from local businesses. There’s also fishing on Big Green Lake, Puckaway, and Little Green, the three major lakes that comprise Green Lake.
Lake Delton
Lake Delton is a town that sits on the Wisconsin River, and the largest community in the Dells area. Tourists head to Lake Delton for water activities, although there are many other things to do as well. The town’s proximity to Noah’s Ark Waterpark, the Kalahari Resorts Dells, and Wilderness Resort make it the ultimate family-friendly vacation spot.
Geneva Lake
The town of Lake Geneva is centered around the lake, which allows boating, paddleboarding, and other similar activities on the water. The lake also has four beaches where families can relax, play, and swim. Lake Geneva is surrounded by other outdoor amenities as well, like parks, hiking and biking trails, orchards, and golf courses. In addition, the town has museums, shopping, and entertainment. As a lively tourist destination in Wisconsin, there are also many vacation rentals, hotels, resorts, and campgrounds that will accommodate your big family.
Lake Koshkonong
Lake Koshkonong and Rock River are renowned as great fishing spots in Wisconsin. Hook and line fishing is open all year, except for some fish species. The lake is also surrounded by marinas and boat rental companies, where you can find jet skis, pontoons, and more. To soak up some sun, you can lounge at one of Lake Koshkonong’s beaches or pools. The area offers both RV campgrounds and vacation rentals for big families.
Lake Michigan
As one of the biggest lakes in the United States, Lake Michigan has several vacation spots dotted along it. The lake’s vacation regions touch Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois. For Wisconsin vacation cabins and homes that suit large families, head to Green Bay, Door County, or Two Rivers. Each offers distinct experiences, with activities for people of all ages.
Lake Pepin
Situated on the Mississippi River, Lake Pepin is known as the birthplace of water skiing. With a beach, yacht club, and marina, water sports are allowed and encouraged on the lake! The town of Pepin and other surrounding villages are also great stops, with several local eateries and shops. Large vacation rentals are available throughout the region.
Castle Rock Lake
Located in central Wisconsin, the closest city to the man-made body of water is Mauston. Castle Rock is great for fishing, with Bluegill, Lake Sturgeon, Walleye, and other species. You can also go tubing or water skiing on the lake. As Wisconsin’s fourth largest freshwater lake, Castle Rock sees plenty of visitors, and so has several large vacation rentals available as well.
Lake Winnebago
Lake Winnebago is a large freshwater lake that touches Appleton, Oshkosh, and Fond du Lac. It’s known for its world-class walleye fishing, boating, sailing, and canoeing. If you’re staying near Oshkosh, local cruises also run throughout the year. Oshkosh has an abundance of lodging options for large families. Appleton and Fond-du-Lac are more limited to lodging but still have accommodation options as well.
Lake Arbutus
At Lake Arbutus is in Clark, Wisconsin visitors have access to public boat landings and public beaches. Anglers will also found Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, and Walleye, among other fish species. You can find cabins and rentals for big groups near Hatfield, not far from the lake.
Wisconsin is known for its lakes – and the beautiful scenery that surrounds them. That state is the perfect place to take your family on a lake vacation because you’ll never be bored. Whether you enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, or non-outdoor activities like shopping, dining, and visiting museums, you’ll find something to love at one of Wisconsin’s lakes.