Binghamton Lakes

Lakes Around Binghamton

Every once in a while you should gather your family and friends and make time to be on the water. Fortunately, when you visit Binghamton there are some great spots for getting on, or in the water.

It doesn’t matter if you’re seeking to paddleboard, buzz around doing watersports, swim, or nap in the sand, the lakes near Binghamton provide you with numerous beautiful locations for outdoor activities. The time is now! Pack up the car with your fishing gear and a picnic basket then set out on your next vacation and discover your own favorite spot on the water!

Lakes Close to Binghamton

Things to Do at the Lake

A day trip, or a more lengthy trip offers an almost boundless list of things to do for couples or families.

Let’s look at some of the options available to you when you arrive at a Binghamton lake:

Go for a swim. Finding a swimming lake near Binghamton will offer tons of fun and excitement for the big kids and little ones, 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! You know as well as we do that a swimming pool just isn’t as much fun as a glorious public beach on a lake near Binghamton!

Partake in some water sports. Should you be able to get access to a speed boat, why not spend the day zipping around the lake showing off your water sports expertise? Enjoy a day of wakeboarding or knee boarding as the local lakes offer you several choices.

Grab a board. If paddling is your thing, strap your favorite kayak or paddleboard to the top of your vehicle and chart your course to a lake with a boat launch and get out and enjoy the scenery on the waterfront.

How to Prepare for a Day at the Lake

A lake day itinerary can be drastically different when you take into consideration which lake you choose, when you decide to go, and your plan of attack. However, we’ve built out a short list of some of the most common lake items for you to use as a checklist before you hit the road.

Lake basics

If the plan is to be in the sun for most of the vacation, our list of provisions below should be a good starting point for essentials that you’ll be happy to have on hand.

  • Bug spray
  • Tennis shoes
  • A cooler and drinks
  • Snacks
  • Sunglasses
  • A beach blanket and umbrella
  • Portable stereo
  • Sunblock
  • Cords and a charger for portable devices
  • Bathing suits

More lake gear

Consider what you’ll be doing at the lake and who will be in your entourage, the items below could make your day more enjoyable and worth a quick spot check before you make the trip.

  • Legal flotation devices
  • Worms or other bait
  • Wine key
  • Kindle
  • Hand sanitizers or moist towelettes
  • Baby gear (if necessary)
  • Fishing gear
  • Inflatable pool toys
  • Goggles or masks
  • Beach toys (buckets, shovels, football, frisbee, etc.)

Staying Safe on a Lake

Of course your getaway on the lake can be lots of fun, safety should remain top of mind at all times. When you decide to spend a day at the lake here are some general safety tips to keep in mind.

  • Stay close to shore and avoid areas with shallow water or where the current is strong
  • Always wear sunblock
  • Don’t mix alcohol with swimming
  • Don’t swim alone
  • Make sure children have swimmies or other approved flotation devices
  • Always wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking or paddle boarding
  • Have an emergency plan if you run into trouble on your watercraft

More Binghamton Lake Tips

Some people may not get the opportunity to make their way to the lakes near Binghamton and might have a few questions about how to make the most of their time there. Certainly, no matter where you go each lake will possess unique qualities and surroundings, but you should keep in mind a handful of items to review while planning that might help start your trip on the right foot.

  1. Do homework on the beaches. If you pick the wrong time of year, sometimes beaches might be very busy. If you want some space to yourself, do some digging on multiple lakes and beaches to learn about how busy they are to find one with a slower pace. If you want to be where the party’s at, search out the biggest, most happening beach!
  2. Find a marina. If you’re near the water you’ll often find nearby marinas that offer boat rentals of all sizes. Boats are expensive to own, but a rental will still allow you to enjoy fishing with family and friends or tubing with the kids. Using a search engine can usually help you find a marina that has what you need.
  3. Maximize the best assets in the area. If there’s time for a lengthier trip, find local state parks and recreation areas which give you the option to camp near or even on the water at an affordable price.