Lakes in Upstate New York: Top 17 Most Unique Spots

If you’re itching to escape the city buzz, upstate New York has just what you need. There are over 7,600 lakes, ponds, and reservoirs ready for you to dive into. The sparkling waters of these lakes in upstate New York, often near charming NY towns and surrounded by nature, are perfect for a laid-back getaway.

We’ve rounded up some top lakes in upstate New York that are sure to float your boat. Whether you’re into canoeing, swimming, or just picnicking by the shore, these New York State lakes, with their green and blue hues, are a splash hit.

Ready to explore some of the most beautiful lakes in upstate New York State? Let’s get into it:

Quick Hits

• Finger Lakes Region: Dive into the tranquility of Seneca and Cayuga Lakes or savor cultural and culinary treats. This area is rich in glacial history and offers experiences as deep as the lakes themselves.

• Adirondack Mountains: Lakes like Lake Placid and Saranac Lake call all adventurers and luxury seekers alike. Whether it’s summer fun or a winter wonderland, these lakes are ready for action all year round.

• Hidden Gems: Explore the peaceful retreats of Canadice and Black Lakes. These spots are perfect for fishing, hiking, and soaking in pristine natural beauty, far from the madding crowds.

 

Map design by Stanton House Inn  

 

Lakeside Escapes Near NYC: Quick Getaways for City Dwellers

Trade the hustle and bustle of NYC for a peaceful lakeside retreat. Trees, not skyscrapers, stretch toward the sky. Just a short drive from the city, you’ll find tranquil lakes in New York like Lake Minnewaska and Greenwood Lake, perfect for a quick escape.

Lake Minnewaska: Nature’s Playground Close to NYC

Hop, skip, and then take a two-hour drive from NYC. There, you’ll find that Lake Minnewaska is the ultimate nature escape. This spot in the Catskill Mountains is a playground for outdoor lovers with activities like:

• Hiking

• Biking

• Kayaking

• Swimming

And it’s not just about the lake—the breathtaking Awosting Falls adds extra magic to your visit. Whether you’re up for an adventure or just some peace and quiet, Lake Minnewaska is a hidden gem close to the city, offering a refreshing break in nature.

Greenwood Lake: A Serene Hideaway Just Outside the City

Less than an hour and a half from NYC, Greenwood Lake is your go-to for quick, serene weekend getaways from New York City. Its calm waters are perfect for:

• Boating

• Swimming

• Relaxing on sandy beaches

And if you crave more adventure, Green Lakes State Park is just a short drive away, packed with outdoor fun. Planning to stay a bit longer? Check out charming bed and breakfasts outside NYC like:

• The Waterstone Inn

• Villa Verde B&B

• And the New Continental Hotel and Restaurant

Finger Lakes Wonderland: Exploring the Pristine Waters

The Finger Lakes are nature’s string of pearls, a series of eleven long and narrow lakes, each with its own charm. Carved out about two million years ago by glaciers, these V-shaped valleys transformed into the stunning U-shaped lakes we see today. The sun plays hide and seek on these deep, shimmering waters—some of the deepest in North America! Lake Cayuga, for instance, plunges to about 435 feet.

Even though they share a glacial origin, all the Finger Lakes have their own personality. Standouts like:

• Seneca

• Cayuga

• And Keuka Lakes

Offer everything from water sports to wine tasting, all set against jaw-dropping landscapes. Let’s dive into what makes these waters so special!

Seneca Lake: A Deep Dive into Nature

Right in the heart of the Finger Lakes, Seneca Lake is calling you to jump in and explore. Whether you’re paddleboarding, kayaking, or hopping on a guided boat tour, there’s a splash of fun for everyone. After a day on the water, why not reward yourself with a glass of wine? The Seneca Lake Wine Trail, with its 27 wineries, is a vino lover’s dream, thanks to a microclimate perfect for grapes.

Not a wine fan? No problem! Check out:

• The charming town of Geneva, one of the cutest small towns in New York

• The historic Belhurst Castle and Winery

• The peaceful Watkins Glen State Park

• The wildlife haven of Catharine Creek Area

Every corner of Seneca Lake has a story to tell, making it an adventure you won’t forget!

Cayuga Lake: Ithaca’s Crown Jewel

Cayuga Lake is the shining star of the Finger Lakes, blending outdoor fun with rich culture. Ithaca, home to Cornell University and Ithaca College, adds a lively, intellectual spark to the area. From sport fishing and hiking to exploring the vibrant Ithaca Farmers Market and Ithaca Commons, there’s never a dull moment. And don’t miss the Finger Lakes waterfalls here—over 150 within a 10-mile radius!

Highlights include:

• Seneca Falls, home to the National Women’s Hall of Fame and Elizabeth Cady Stanton House (the person our inn is named after, by the way)

• Local parks, museums, and historic sites add to the area’s rich tapestry.

Cayuga Lake is a perfect mix of nature, culture, and tasty delights.

Keuka Lake: The Unconventional Beauty

Keuka Lake stands out with its quirky Y-shape and unique backward drainage. It’s a haven for outdoor lovers, offering everything from paddleboarding and kayaking to picnicking at Keuka Lake State Park.

And the wine? Try the Wine Barge History Tour for a sip of something special. Plus, the town of Penn Yan at the northern tip is a cozy spot with:

• Charming accommodations

• Tasty dining options

• Cute shops and easy lake access

Keuka Lake’s unique charm and activities are sure to steal your heart.

Canandaigua Lake

Canandaigua Lake is a gem with crystal-clear waters and plenty of fun in the sun. If you’re hungry, grab a bite at Nolan’s on the Lake, famous for its seafood and lakefront views. Beer and wine lovers will enjoy the local breweries and the Canandaigua Wine Trail, featuring four wineries.

Don’t miss Squaw Island, rich in Native American history and perfect for a kayak or canoe visit.

Skaneateles Lake

Skaneateles Lake, the sparkling gem and the fifth largest glacial lake in New York, is a hot spot for all things summer:

• Canoeing

• Fishing

• And water sports galore!

Nestled near the quaint downtown of its main village, this Finger Lake offers breathtaking views of:

• Lush forests

• Grand mansions

• And historic homes

And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a hot air balloon ride? Or pamper yourself at the luxurious Mirbeau Inn & Spa, one of the best winter getaways from NYC?

Famous as the cleanest lake in New York, Skaneateles is so pure that nearby lake towns use it for unfiltered drinking water. Dive into activities like boating, kayaking, and sailing, or kick back in a secluded house with stunning views.

Other fun options include:

• Hiking in Bear Swamp State Forest

• Shopping at cute village boutiques

• Exploring Dickinson Conservation Area

• Wine tasting at Anyela’s Vineyards

• Biking the 32-mile scenic loop around the lake

• Visiting Staghorn Cliffs, a hidden treasure with views that’ll make you think you’re in Alaska or the Caribbean!

A trip to Skaneateles Lake will leave you feeling as refreshed as its pristine waters. Covering over 13 square miles, it’s the main water source for Syracuse residents. Its clear, oligotrophic waters mean algae and aquatic plants don’t take over. That said, there’s plenty of fish like smallmouth bass and rainbow trout to keep the ecosystem thriving. So, grab your gear and get ready to soak in the beauty of Skaneateles Lake!

Adirondack Adventures: Serene Lakes Amidst Majestic Mountains

Wave goodbye to the Finger Lakes because we’re heading to the Adirondack Mountains. Lakes with wild shorelines offer a perfect blend of tranquility and untouched beauty. Take Silver Lake, for instance. This peaceful spot, dotted with cozy cabins, is a dreamy retreat against the majestic Adirondack backdrop.

The Adirondacks boast many tranquil lakes, but these stand out:

• Lake Placid

• Saranac Lake

• Blue Mountain Lake

• Indian Lake

Each lake, framed by stunning mountains, promises unique adventures, from year-round activities to hidden cultural gems:

Lake Placid & Mirror Lake: Year-Round Wonders among Lakes in New York

Right in the heart of the Adirondacks, Lake Placid and Mirror Lake steal the show. Mirror Lake, the region’s darling, offers breathtaking views from the luxe Mirror Lake Inn. Summer is a splash with canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. But hold onto your hats because winter transforms Lake Placid into a snowy wonderland. Free access to boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and pedal boats, plus family-friendly resort fun, make these lakes your ticket to year-round joy, luxury, and jaw-dropping scenery.

Saranac Lake: An Adirondack Oasis

Saranac Lake is the perfect Adirondack oasis, balancing adventure and chill vibes. Dive into fishing, swimming, or hiking. Saranac Lake actually consists of three connected lakes—Lower, Middle, and Upper—linked by the Saranac River. Paddle away in a kayak, paddleboard, or canoe, with rentals and guided tours available from Adirondack Lakes & Trails Outfitters.

Feeling hungry? Head to Fiddle Head Bistro for locally-sourced deliciousness or Ray Brook Brew House for awesome beer and wings. For a serene stay, The Point offers stunning lake views and top-notch amenities. Meanwhile, Saranac Waterfront Lodge is just a stroll from Lake Flower.

Blue Mountain Lake & Indian Lake: Hidden Gems in the Adirondacks

Hidden deep in the Adirondacks, Blue Mountain Lake and Indian Lake are treasures waiting to be found. Blue Mountain Lake mixes culture and nature with:

• The Adirondack Museum

• Boating

• Fishing

• Swimming

Its clear waters are an outdoor lover’s dream.

Indian Lake is a paradise for anglers, teeming with lake trout, smallmouth bass, and rainbow trout. These hidden gems, with their pristine waters and cultural spots, offer a peaceful escape from the crowds. Perfect for soaking up the Adirondack splendor.

Lake George: The Ultimate Family Destination

Tucked away in the Adirondacks, Lake George is the go-to spot for family fun. Dive into activities like:

• Swimming

• Kayaking

• Pedal boating

• Beachside pool access at various resorts

And the fun doesn’t stop when you leave the water. Lake George Village is packed with mini-golf, arcade games. And in winter, the lake transforms into a snowy wonderland with skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and ice fishing.

Whether it’s summer sun or winter snow, Lake George is your ticket to a family vacation full of cherished memories.

Tupper Lake

Tupper Lake is a charmer with its scenic trails, crystal-clear waters, and top-notch eateries. Check out the Wild Center and Wild Walk, featuring bridges that soar over the Adirondack forest. For stargazers, the Adirondack Sky Center & Observatory is a must, thanks to its high altitude.

Don’t miss Ausable Chasm for thrilling rafting or tubing through ancient sandstone formations. Water lovers can fish, kayak, or chill at Little Wolf Beach, the local favorite for swimming and sunbathing. Hikers will love Mount Arab and the Tupper Lake Triad’s trio of peaks.

Explore the Wild Center for a deep dive into wildlife and ecology, or visit The Adirondack Experience for a taste of the region’s rich heritage.

Lake Champlain

Lake Champlain is the sixth-largest lake in the U.S. . It’s a haven for boating, fishing, and water sports, stretching 120 miles from the Canadian border to New York and Vermont. It boasts several state parks and historic sites like Fort Ticonderoga.

For breathtaking views,

• Hike up Rattlesnake Mountain, one of the best hikes in upstate NY, in Willsboro

• Or explore Ausable Chasm with its rafting, tubing, hiking, and ziplining

The lake also serves as a natural border between New York and Vermont.

Stay at Point Au Roche Lodge on the lake’s northern end for day trips to the High Peaks and Lake Placid. Or check into the cozy Inn in Westport, a hidden gem on Lake Champlain’s shores.

Central New York State Lakes

Central New York State is a trove of lush landscapes and shimmering lakes, perfect for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re drawn to:

• The historic charm of Otsego Lake

• Or the ecological wonders of Green and Round Lakes at Green Lakes State Park

Natural beauty and rich history bursts at the seams here. Fancy exploring the famous “Glimmerglass” from literature?

Or perhaps, taking a dip in a state park’s pristine waters?

Sipping along craft beverage trails?

Central New York’s lakes have got you covered. Read on to splash into the unique charm of these amazing lakeside spots!

Otsego Lake

Otsego Lake, famously known as the “Glimmerglass” from James Fenimore Cooper’s tales, is a real gem.

Cooperstown, dubbed “America’s most perfect village,” is the star here. You’ve got the National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum and the Fenimore Art Museum. Step back in time at the Farmers’ Museum or admire American art at the Fenimore. Stay at the historic Otesaga Resort Hotel with its stunning lake views. Nature lovers can explore Glimmerglass State Park year-round. And music buffs can enjoy world-class opera at the Glimmerglass Festival.

Plus, Central New York boasts some of the best craft beverage trails around.

Green Lake

Green and Round Lakes at Green Lakes State Park are upstate New York’s breathtaking wonders. These glacial lakes are home to ancient plant and animal life. Green Lake features a coral-like reef known as “Deadman’s Point,” formed by microscopic organisms over millennia. This fragile reef is a crucial habitat for plants and fish, and strict boating rules protect its delicate ecosystem. Only kayaks or rowboats from the park’s Boat House are allowed.

If boating isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the lakes’ beauty by hitting the beach or hiking the 4.6-mile trail around both lakes through lush forest. Remember, swimming is only allowed in designated areas to keep everyone safe. And don’t forget to leave no trace while exploring these natural wonders.

For a cozy overnight stay, check out The Craftsman Inn in nearby Fayetteville, offering spacious suites and a warm restaurant. Even with the park Boat House closed, you can enjoy stunning turquoise lake views at the Craftsman Inn.

Oneida Lake

Oneida Lake, New York’s largest, is home to Oneida Shores County Park, which boasts a beach, picnic spots, grills, and playgrounds. It’s a hotspot for walleye and yellow perch fishing.

Nearby, Verona Beach State Park offers a boat launch and more fun on the water.

Lake Ontario

New York is blessed with some of the world’s most stunning lakes, and it’s got two of the Great Lakes in its backyard—Lake Erie and Lake Ontario.

Lake Ontario is a shining star in upstate New York, perfect for a dreamy lake vacation with its white-sand beaches and vast, scenic views. First off, let’s talk fun spots:

• Strong National Museum of Play: Perfect for a playful day out.

• National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House: A tribute to a legendary trailblazer.

• Genesee Brew House, Black Button Distilling, and Rohrbach Brewing Company: Sip some local flavors and relax.

• H. Lee White Maritime Museum and Oswego Lighthouse: A peek into maritime history.

Now, if you’re into fishing or just want to catch a stunning sunset, head over to Selkirk Shores State Park. With 712 miles of shoreline, Lake Ontario is packed with activities. Not into paddling? No worries, just chill on the sandy beaches or explore the many attractions and natural wonders along the shore.

With 712 miles of shoreline, Lake Ontario is a treasure trove of activities. If paddling isn’t your thing, just chill on the sandy beaches or explore the many attractions and natural wonders along the shore.

Must-sees along this massive lake include:

• Old Fort Niagara

• Golden Hill State Park

• Chimney Bluffs State Park

• Oswego

• Rochester

• Genesee Country Village Museum

• George Eastman Museum

• Rochester’s City-run Public Market

• Swan Market German Deli

Lake Ontario also serves as a magical divide between the U.S. and Canada, with Toronto painting a stunning backdrop. It sits gracefully between Ontario, Canada, and New York’s Ontario, offering breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and waterfalls. No trip is complete without a visit to Niagara Falls to cap off your adventure.

For the full Great Lakes experience, enjoy:

• Fishing

• Wildlife watching

• Hiking

• Boating

• Strolling through parks

Don’t miss quirky spots like the Jell-O museum, and take a trip back in time with visits to old forts and lighthouses. Lake Ontario is calling—are you ready to answer?

Hidden Gems: Secluded Lakes for a Quiet Retreat

New York is dotted with lakes, some bustling with tourists and others quietly tucked away, perfect for a peaceful retreat. Lakes like Canadice Lake and Black Lake are those hidden gems, offering a tranquil escape from city life’s hustle and bustle.

These secluded spots each have their own special charm. Canadice Lake’s strict watercraft rules keep it serene, while Black Lake shines with its untouched beauty. Let’s dive into the peace and quiet these lakes have to offer!

Canadice Lake: A Remote Paradise

Canadice Lake is the definition of tranquility. With rules banning watercraft longer than 17 feet or motors over 10 horsepower, this lake stays blissfully quiet. It’s a dream spot for fishing and hiking—ideal for anyone looking to escape into nature. Nearby, you can find a cozy cabin in the woods near Owasco Lake, sleeping up to six people. Perfect for a family getaway or a solo retreat.

Black Lake: An Upstate Secret

Nestled in the Adirondacks, Black Lake is a peaceful gem with pristine waters, great for fishing and swimming. Close by, you’ll find Blue Mountain Lake, known for its clear waters and stunning mountain scenery. Don’t miss the Adirondack Museum, packed with the region’s history and culture. For more adventure, head to Indian Lake. It’s famous for excellent fishing and hiking trails through the untouched wilderness of the Siamese Ponds Wilderness Area. The historic Indian Lake Theater offers some local entertainment too.

Thinking of staying a while? There are charming cabins and well-kept campsites ready for you. Black Lake is a tranquil haven, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

Chautauqua Lake: Breathtaking Views and Outdoor Fun

Chautauqua Lake is a family-friendly spot with stunning views and loads of outdoor fun. Enjoy public swimming beaches, boating, fishing, and steamboat cruises. Nearby attractions include:

• Bemus Point, the classic amusement park rides at Midway State Park

• And cultural spots at the Chautauqua Institution

This 17-mile lake offers sandy beaches and exciting boating and fishing opportunities. Hop on the Chautauqua Belle, a classic Mississippi River-style steamboat, for a cruise. Don’t miss:

• A meal at the Heirloom Restaurant in the historic Athenaeum Hotel

• Or a visit to Jamestown for the National Comedy Center and the Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Museum

Chautauqua Lake’s charm goes beyond its serene waters. It’s a top destination for adventure and relaxation alike.

Tl;dr

From the captivating Finger Lakes to the serene havens in the Adirondacks, and from family-friendly spots to hidden gems perfect for a quiet retreat, New York’s lakes are brimming with experiences. Whether you’re up for adventure, craving tranquility, or just need a quick city escape, there’s a lake to match your mood, season, and style. So, why wait? Pack your bags, hoist the sails, and set off to discover these serene lakes. Remember, your next adventure is just a lake away!

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities can I do at Seneca Lake?

Seneca Lake is a water lover’s dream! Dive into paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, or hop on a guided tour. Whether you’re into thrilling water sports or chill boat cruises, Seneca’s got something for everyone.

What distinguishes Cayuga Lake?

Cayuga Lake stands out with its close ties to Ithaca, home to the prestigious Cornell University and Ithaca College, adding a rich cultural vibe to the area.

What is unique about Keuka Lake?

Keuka Lake’s claim to fame is its quirky Y-shape and unusual backward drainage, making it a true one-of-a-kind lake.

What activities are available at Lake Minnewaska?

Lake Minnewaska is an outdoor paradise with hiking, biking, kayaking, and swimming. There’s a fun adventure waiting for everyone!

What makes Canadice Lake a peaceful escape?

Canadice Lake is the epitome of peace thanks to strict rules limiting motorized boats, keeping the lake tranquil and perfect for a relaxing retreat.