Columbus Lakes

Lakes Near Columbus

It’s summertime so it’s time to start planning your upcoming family vacation. If you’re looking for a fun destination, consider visiting a lake near Columbus. As it turns out, when you visit Columbus there are some options for getting on, or in the water.

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking to go kayaking, buzz around doing watersports, swim, or work on your tan, the lakes near Columbus provide you with lots of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Scan the table below and have a look the options including small lakes with beaches to all sports lakes for you and the family to enjoy.

Nearby Lakes for Columbus

Lake Activities

When you visit a lake near Columbus there are many things to do for families and couples. Whether you’re just looking for a day trip or make it a long weekend to a hotel on the beach to make the most of your time unwinding.

Now we’ll run down a list of some of the best things to do when you arrive at a Columbus lake:

Grab a board. For those in search of some exercise, load up your preferred vessel and find yourself a lake that has a public boat launch you can use and get out and enjoy nature’s beauty on the waterfront.

Partake in some delicious delights outside. The lakes near Columbus provide many top-notch picnic areas where you can enjoy foods, or a quick snack as you enjoy the view. If you’re with that special someone, a picnic on the beach should put a smile on their face.

Catch some fish. For anglers, you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a good fishing spot to help you have a relaxing day with a line in the water whether you’re roaming the lake in a killer fishing boat or fishing from shore.

Preparing for a Day on the Lake

Everyone’s beach getaway will be unique based on which lake you go to, when you go, what your goals are for the getaway. While every trip is its own animal, we took the time to make a list for some ideas for your next trip to a lake near Columbus so there’s nothing to stress over!

The basics

When the plan is to be outdoors for the majority of the weekend, the list below is a good starting point for essentials you are likely to need.

  • Bug spray
  • Bluetooth speaker
  • Bathing suits
  • Towels
  • Plates, cups and utensils
  • Something to eat
  • Dry shirt
  • Bottle opener
  • Portable phone charger
  • UV protection

Specialty lake stuff

Take into consideration your planned activities for the day and your guests, the following items could make your day more enjoyable and adding to your checklist before you make the trip.

  • Tackle box
  • Masks and snorkels
  • Licenses and registration for boating and fishing
  • Wine key
  • Bait
  • Safety gear like life jackets
  • Books
  • Toys for the beach
  • Fishing poles, nets, etc.
  • Pool noodles, rafts, floats

Staying Safe on a Lake

Of course a day on the lake can provide ample amounts of fun, everyone’s safety needs to remain top of mind. When you decide to spend a day at the lake these are some extremely important tips for keeping everyone safe.

  • Keep children within arm’s reach at all times while swimming in deep water
  • Always wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking or paddle boarding
  • Always wear sunblock
  • Always swim with a buddy
  • Don’t mix alcohol with swimming
  • Have an escape plan for what to do if you get stuck on a boat that capsizes or tips over
  • Avoid swimming near rocks or shallow water areas that may not be deep enough to dive underneath and escape from waves

More Ideas for Lake Fun

Not everyone has had a chance to make their way to the lakes near Columbus and might have a few questions regarding planning. Obviously, no matter where you go each lake is going to have unique qualities and surroundings, but here are a handful of items to review while assembling your itinerary which could help start your trip on the right foot.

  1. Maximize the best local resources. When you have time for a lengthier trip, find local state parks and recreation areas which give you the ability to stay right on the water for a reasonable price.
  2. Do homework on the beaches. If you pick the wrong time of year, occasionally beaches might be packed with beachgoers. To find some more peace and quiet, do some digging on a variety of nearby beaches and lakes to see if you can find one that’s less crowded to find one with a slower pace. If you want to be where the party’s at, then look for the biggest, most popular beach!
  3. Rent a boat. If you’re near the water you’ll often find local marinas that offer boat rentals. Boats are expensive to own, but a rental will still allow you to enjoy fishing with family and friends or a wild day of wakeboarding. Using a search engine can usually allow you to locate several places that can hook you up with the right vessel.