Gainesville Lakes

Lakes Close to Gainesville

It’s summertime so it’s time to plan your next summer adventure. If you’re looking for a fun destination, consider visiting a lake near Gainesville. A lake getaway is amazing for those that enjoy getting outside too, as they are a great way to take in the local scenery and all that nature has to offer.

It doesn’t matter if you’re itching to paddleboard, partake in some water skiing, go swimming, or nap in the sand, the lakes near Gainesville provide you with plentiful options for aquatic adventures. Take a look at the table directly beneath this paragraph and have a look the options including swimming lakes with beaches to all sports lakes for you and the family to enjoy.

Lakes Near Gainesville

Things to Do at the Lake

On a day trip to a lake near Gainesville you’ll find all kinds of activities that can be enjoyed by families and couples. Whether you’re just looking for a day trip or take a longer vacation to a hotel on the beach to enjoy yourself more fully.

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

Pack a picnic basket. The lakes near Gainesville gives you the chance to visit a wealth of top-notch picnic areas for you to pack up some portable delicacies, or a quick snack as you enjoy the view. If you’re with that special someone, a picnic on the beach is hard to beat.

Go fishing. For anglers, finding a good fishing hole shouldn’t be too hard to help you reel in a day of fun whether you’re roaming the lake in a killer fishing boat or standing on a dock with a beer in one hand and a rod in the other.

Partake in some water sports. Should you be able to get access to a speed boat, why not get out on the water and start kicking up a wake demonstrating your athleticism and water sports skills? Hit the water and go tubing or skiing as the lakes near Gainesville provide you with a number of options.

Lake Getaway Prep

Everyone’s beach getaway will be unique depending on the lake you’re heading to, what the weather is going to be, or if there are any activities planned. While every trip is its own animal, we’ve created a list with some of our favorite ideas for your next summer trip to ensure nothing gets forgotten!

General items

When the plan is to be outdoors for the majority of the vacation, our list of provisions below is an excellent starting point when it comes to the necessities you are likely to need.

  • Something to dry off with
  • Plastic grocery bags (for trash and/or wet clothes)
  • Portable phone charger
  • A cooler with water
  • Bottle opener
  • A sunhat or glasses
  • A beach blanket and umbrella
  • Travel dinnerware and cups
  • Sunscreen
  • Dry shirt

More lake items

Take into consideration your planned activities at the lake and your guests, the following items might also prove useful and worth a quick spot check before you make the trip.

  • Wine key
  • Baby gear (if necessary)
  • Something to read
  • Fishing poles
  • Tackle box and lures
  • Bait
  • Toys for the beach
  • Paper towels and sanitizer
  • Licenses and registration for boating and fishing
  • Swimming goggles

Staying Safe on a Lake

Of course spending a weekend to a lake in Gainesville can provide lots of fun, you always have to keep safety in mind. A day on the lake means safety first so here are some general safety tips to keep in mind.

  • Avoid swimming near rocks or shallow water areas that may not be deep enough to dive underneath and escape from waves
  • Have an escape plan for what to do if you get stuck on a boat that capsizes or tips over
  • Make sure you have a life jacket for every person on the boat
  • Always swim with a buddy
  • Avoid plants that can sting or cause allergic reactions
  • Always wear sunblock
  • Avoid drinking alcohol while boating

More Gainesville Lake Tips

If you’re going to visit the fabulous lakes near Gainesville, there are a few things that will make your trip plan much more rewarding. For example, each individual lake near Gainesville is going to have their own qualities and surroundings which makes it important to think about what you need to make an unforgettable trip when planning yours.

  1. Rent a boat. Many lakes have local marinas that offer boat rentals of all sizes. Boats are expensive to own, but a rental will still allow you to enjoy a day fishing on the lake or tubing with the kids. Asking a local can usually help you find options for renting the perfect boat.
  2. Maximize the best assets in the area. When there’s time for a longer getaway, look for local state parks and recreation areas that offer the ability to stay in a spot that is right on top of the water without breaking the bank.
  3. Pay attention to the beaches. Depending on the time of year, sometimes beaches can get very crowded. If you want a little more privacy, research a variety of nearby beaches and lakes to see if you can find one that’s less crowded if you want a more relaxing vibe. If you want to be where the party’s at, then look for the biggest, most happening sandy party scene!