Lakes Around Stillwater
The weather is warm so it’s time to start planning your upcoming summer adventure. There aren’t many better options than a lake near Stillwater. A lake getaway can be amazing for those that enjoy getting outside too, as they are a great way to see birds, fish, turtles and other animals in their natural habitat.
It doesn’t matter if you’re seeking to float in a tube with a book, buzz around doing watersports, swim, or nap in the sand, the lakes near Stillwater provide you with lots of beautiful locations for aquatic activities. So what are you waiting for? Load up your vehicle with your beach goodies and a cooler then hit the road on your next vacation to find a brand new favorite spot on a lake!
Nearby Lakes for Stillwater
Things to Do at the Lake
When you visit a lake near Stillwater 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 decide to stay overnight at a hotel or AirBnB to make the most of your time unwinding.
A day, weekend, or a week at the lake gives you everything from fun to relaxation.
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 kicking up a wake demonstrating your athleticism and water sports skills? Enjoy a day of tubing or skiing as the local lakes provide you with several options.
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 drifting behind a trolling motor or tossing a line in from the dock.
Canoeing, kayaking, or paddle boarding. If paddling is your thing, strap your favorite kayak or paddleboard to the top of your vehicle and chart your course to a lake near Stillwater that has a public boat launch you can use and get out and enjoy nature’s beauty on the waterfront.
Lake Getaway Prep
Every day at the lake will have its own requirements depending on the lake you’re heading to, what time of year it is, and what you want to do for entertainment. For your benefit, we put together a list that will give some ideas for your next trip to a lake near Stillwater so there’s nothing to stress over!
General items
For a day spent on the water it makes a lot of sense to take along some of these items to make sure you’re safe, healthy, and getting the most out of your getaway.
- Plastic grocery bags (for trash and/or wet clothes)
- Insect repellant
- Swimsuits
- A fully stocked cooler
- Travel dinnerware and cups
- A picnic basket
- Cords and a charger for portable devices
- UV protection
- A sunhat or glasses
- Flip flops or water shoes
Specialty lake items
The gear in the list below can make your life easier for excursions to the lake based on your plans. You may want to double check some of these prior to hitting the road.
- Rafts and floaties
- Goggles or masks
- Fishing poles
- Beach toys (buckets, shovels, football, frisbee, etc.)
- Fishing and boating licenses
- Tackle box and lures
- Hand sanitizers or moist towelettes
- Diapers (if a baby’s on board)
- Wine key
- Something to read
Staying Safe on a Lake
Yes, being on the water can make for a memorable day, everyone’s safety is the most important part of your getaway. These safety tips should ensure that you and your family stays safe while around the lake.
- Always swim with a buddy
- Be aware of your surroundings and know where you are in relation to land
- Always wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking or paddle boarding
- Avoid drinking alcohol while boating
- Stay close to shore and avoid areas with shallow water or where the current is strong
- Regularly apply sunblock throughout the day – following the product’s instructions
- Keep children within arm’s reach at all times while swimming in deep water
More Tips for a Lake Getaway in Stillwater
Not everyone has had the opportunity to visit the lakes near Stillwater and might have a few questions regarding planning. Obviously, every lake will have unique qualities and surroundings, but here are a couple key points to review when planning that might help put together a trip your whole family will remember.
- Research your beaches. Depending on the time of year, sometimes beaches could be very busy. To find more space to yourself, research 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 busiest, most popular beach!
- Maximize the best assets in the area. When there’s time for a longer stay, look for local state parks and recreation areas which give you the ability to stay right on the water for a reasonable price.
- Rent a boat. Many lakes have nearby marinas that offer boat rentals of all sizes. You don’t need to own a boat to enjoy fishing with family and friends or a day of watersports. Asking a local can usually allow you to find options for renting the perfect boat.