Lakes Near Duluth
Sometimes you should spend some time by the water. As it turns out, when you make a trip to Duluth you have lots of great spots for getting on, or in the water.
Whether you’re itching to float in a tube with a book, get active with wakeboarding, swim, or work on your tan, the lakes near Duluth offer you numerous beautiful locations for outdoor adventures. Has there ever been a better time? Load up the car with sunscreen and snacks then make the trip on your next vacation and discover your own number one spot on the water!
Lakes Near Duluth
Things to Do at the Lake
When you visit a lake near Duluth you’ll find all kinds of activities that can be enjoyed by groups of all types. You could go for an exciting day trip or decide to stay overnight at a hotel on the beach to make for a bigger, better getaway.
Here are some of our top picks for activities when you make your way to a Duluth lake:
Get a little crazy with the water sports. If you’ve got access to a speed boat, you might want to have some fun and make a day of flying around the water demonstrating your athleticism and water sports skills? Take the family out for some wakeboarding or knee boarding as the local lakes offer you several options.
Go fishing. 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 out on a boat or tossing a line in from the dock.
Get in the water. The swimming lakes near Duluth provide tons of laughs and games for the youngsters, or plenty of exercise for those looking to be active in between getting that perfect golden tan. If you want to spend time swimming and on the beach you’ll want to be sure your lake has a nice swimming area and a sandy beach to spread out on before you make the trip! Admit it, even the nicest swimming pool just isn’t as much fun as a glorious public beach!
Preparing for a Day on the Lake
Your plan for a lake getaway can be drastically different when you take into consideration which lake you’re going to, when you decide to go, and the activities on your to-do list. For your convenience we’ve put together a list of some of the most common go-to items for you to use as a checklist before you hit the road.
General items
When you’re out on a lake near Duluth you’ll probably want to take along some of these items to make sure you’re safe, comfortable, and getting the most out of your getaway.
- Bug spray
- Dry shirt
- Bathing suits
- Proper footwear
- Portable stereo
- A blanket or sheet
- Travel dinnerware and cups
- A sunhat or glasses
- Garbage bags
- A cooler with water bottles
More lake stuff
Depending on the itinerary when at the water and who will be in your entourage, the items below might also prove useful and adding to your checklist before you make the trip.
- Something to clean up with like sanitizers or wet wipes
- Bait
- Goggles or masks
- Games for the beach
- Baby gear (if necessary)
- Fishing and boating licenses
- Fishing gear
- Your favorite magazine or book
- Safety gear like life jackets
- Tackle box
Lake Safety Checklist
While the water can provide fun during a day on the lake, everyone’s safety is the most important part of your getaway. These safety measures should make sure that everyone remains safe while around the lake.
- Keep your distance from wildlife
- Always wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking or paddle boarding
- Avoid alcohol consumption before swimming, as it can impair judgment and result in drowning
- Always wear sunblock
- Make sure no one swims alone
- Stay close to shore and avoid areas with shallow water or where the current is strong
- Have an emergency plan if you run into trouble on your watercraft
More Tips for a Lake Getaway in Duluth
If you’re going to visit the beautiful lakes near Duluth, there are a few things that will make your itinerary substantially more rewarding. As an example, every individual lake near Duluth has their own qualities so it is important to take into account what will make for a memorable getaway as you plan yours.
- Research your beaches. If you pick the wrong time of year, occasionally the beaches near Duluth can get extremely crowded. To find some space to yourself, 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, search out the biggest, most popular sandy party scene!
- Maximize unique local resources. When there’s time for a lengthier getaway, look for local state campgrounds and parks that offer the option to camp near or even on the water without breaking the bank.
- Find a marina. If you’re near the water you’ll often find nearby marinas that offer boat rentals. You don’t need to own a boat to enjoy a relaxing day of fishing or taking the kids out for some wakeboarding or tubing. Doing a quick Google search will typically allow you to locate options for renting the perfect boat.
