There are many different lakes near St Louis that offer a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. With so many different lakes to choose from, you’re sure to find one that is perfect for your needs. If you want to find a place to fish, swim, or relax near St. Louis, you have plenty of options. There are many lakes in the area that can offer you the perfect setting for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a lake with lots of activities or one that is more laid back, you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for. So if you’re looking for a way to get away from it all and enjoy some time on the water, be sure to check out one of the many lakes near St Louis.
Cuivre River State Park
After a more than 50-minute drive from the bustling city, you’ll finally arrive at the serene Cuivre River State Park. This park is home to the beautiful Lincoln Lake, where you can either drop in your boat or rent one at the campground check station. Surrounded by lush greenery and fresh air, this is the perfect place to relax and unwind. The park has kayaks and canoes that are available for rent by the hour or day. The park also has a beach as well as camping and hiking options if you’re looking for an extended stay.
Creve Coeur Lake
After a summer of flooding, boaters will be pleased to know that the ramps at Creve Coeur Lake have reopened for the season. The St. Louis County lake has boat ramps on all sides, making it easy to get your vessel in and out of the water. The north end of the lake is popular with sailboats. Creve Coeur Lake Rentals offers kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard rentals on the south end of the lake near the Taco Bell Shelter. This boat ramp is also open to anyone who wants to drop in.
Meramec Waterways
The Meramec River is a great place to visit for a quick getaway or a longer excursion. You can begin your journey at the many drop-in points along the river. A short list of nearby routes compiled by Great Rivers Greenway can take as long or as little as half an hour. Whether you’re looking for a short trip or a longer adventure, the Meramec River is the perfect place to explore! If you’re planning on doing some canoeing or kayaking, be aware that these routes seldom have rental stands nearby. This means you’ll need to bring your own boat. The national weather service tracks water levels online, so be sure to check that resource before planning your trip. Here’s a pro tip: take a group and park cars on either end of your journey. That way, you won’t have to worry about getting back to your car after paddling all the way down the river.
Forest Park Boathouse
The Boathouse is located in the center of Forest Park, right on the edge of a small lake. From there, you can easily access any of the waterways throughout the park. Whether you want to go for a swim, fish, or just take a leisurely boat ride, the Boathouse is the perfect starting point. Unfortunately, the park has a policy that does not allow visitors to bring in any outside watercraft. However, the park’s boathouse does have paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards available for rent by the hour. The rental rates are very reasonable, ranging from only $15 to $22.
Simpson Lake
Simpson Park, located on the northern side of St. Louis County, is a 72-acre park that is home to Simpson Lake and one of SUP St. Louis’ two locations. Guided paddles on the water and yoga classes are offered by the company. It is possible to explore the lake and get some exercise at the same time. The ramp at Simpson Lake is open to the public throughout the summer if you want to go on your own. You can enjoy plenty of activities at Simpson Lake, such as swimming, fishing, and canoeing. The lake is also a great place to relax and take in scenic views.
Mark Twain Lake
The stunningly beautiful Mark Twain Lake is located in northeastern Missouri. This reservoir, which was created by the building of Clarence Cannon Dam on the Salt River, is approximately 18 miles long and 8 miles wide and has over 200 miles of shoreline. Visitors can enjoy plenty of activities such as fishing, swimming, boating, and more. The lake earned its name from the famous author and humorist Mark Twain who was born and raised in Missouri. The picturesque lake is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
Lake of the Ozarks
The Lake of the Ozarks is one of the best lakes to road trip to near Kansas City. It’s the largest lake in the area and has something for everyone, whether you’re looking to fish or boat, play golf, or go shopping. The views throughout the area are stunning, and there’s so much to see and do. You can visit one of the amusement parks if you want a bit of excitement. This destination has so much to offer that you will not be disappointed.
Truman Lake
Situated in the Ozarks of southwest Missouri, Truman Lake is a popular recreation destination that offers fishing, boating, swimming, and camping. The lake is also known for its bald eagles which can often be seen soaring over the water or perched in the trees along the shore.
Kentucky Lake
The beautiful Kentucky Lake is one of the closest lakes to St. Louis. It was created in 1944 by the Tennessee Valley Authority, with the damming of the Tennessee River by the Kentucky Dam. This man-made lake is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and boating. The scenic views and peaceful atmosphere make it a great place to relax and enjoy nature. The lake is not only a source of hydroelectric power and water for the surrounding region, but also home to several state parks, including Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area, Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, and Lake Barkley State Resort Park.
Smithville Lake
The reservoir known as Smithville Lake was created in 1956 with the construction of the Smithville Dam on the Missouri River. It is situated in north-central Missouri, spanning Platte and Clay counties. The lake boasts a surface area of 12,700 acres and a maximum depth of 135 feet.
The lake is a popular recreational destination for many different activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, and camping. The lake provides a habitat for many different kinds of animals including deer, raccoons, and beavers. These animals are able to live and thrive in this environment, thanks to the resources that the lake offers. The serene environment and breathtaking scenery make the lake a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts to explore and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. With its lush greenery and calm waters, it’s no wonder that this spot is such a popular destination for those who love spending time in nature.
Table Rock Lake
Branson, Missouri is a vibrant town that is popular among tourists who are looking for a small-town atmosphere with plenty of things to do. The town has a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues that make it a great place to visit. Whether you’re looking for a place to shop, eat, or just have fun, Branson is the perfect destination. Table Rock Lake is a beautiful lake that offers many recreational opportunities. There are numerous live music and theatrical performances in Branson, as well as amusement parks and outdoor recreation. This makes Branson an ideal destination for a family vacation.
Lake Michigan
One of the five Great Lakes of North America, Lake Michigan is the closest lake near St Louis. Lake Michigan is the only Great Lake that lies entirely within the borders of the United States. Four of the Great Lakes are shared with Canada.
The Indiana Dunes National Park is a beautiful and unique place to visit. It is home to many different types of wildlife, including birds, fish, and mammals. The park also has a rich history dating back centuries, which visitors can learn about through the many exhibits and educational programs. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the park offers stunning views and opportunities for recreation, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or a longer vacation. There are several different campsites to choose from at the park. It is also a great place to go hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.
