Lancaster Lakes

Lakes Around Lancaster

Every once in a while you should spend some time on the water. As it turns out, when you come to Lancaster there are lots of options for getting on, or in the water.

It doesn’t matter if you’re seeking to go kayaking, partake in some wakeboarding, go for a swim, or work on your tan, the lakes near Lancaster offer you lots of options for aquatic activities. So what are you waiting for? Load up the car with your beach goodies and a picnic basket then set out on your next vacation to find a brand new number one spot on the water!

Nearby Lakes for Lancaster

Lake Activities

A day trip, or a longer getaway gives you an almost limitless amount of stuff for families, couples, or even those seeking some quality alone time.

A day, weekend, or a week on or in the water offers you everything from fun to relaxation.

Go for a swim. Finding a swimming lake near Lancaster will provide all kinds of laughs and games for the kids, or plenty of exercise for those looking to be active in between getting that perfect golden tan. Make sure to do your research and verify that your lake has a sandy beach and a designated swimming area before you make the trip! You know as well as we do that a swimming pool just isn’t as much fun as a beautiful public beach!

Water sports. Should you be able to get access to a fast boat, you might want to have some fun and make a day of zipping around the lake showing off your water sports expertise? Enjoy a day of tubing or skiing as the all sports lakes offer you several choices.

Canoeing, kayaking, or paddle boarding. For those in search of some exercise, load up your preferred vessel and chart your course to a lake with a boat launch and get out and enjoy the scenery on the waterfront.

Checklist for a Day at the Lake

A day at the lake can be very different based on the lake you’re heading to, what the weather is going to be, and what you want to do for entertainment. However, we put together a list that will give some ideas for your watery excursion so you have everything you need!

General items

When you’re out on a lake near Lancaster it makes a lot of sense to take many of these items to make sure you’re safe, comfortable, and having fun.

  • Something to eat
  • Bathing suits
  • Something to dry off with
  • Plates, cups and utensils
  • A sunhat or glasses
  • UV protection
  • Radio or speaker
  • Garbage bags
  • Insect repellant
  • Sweatshirt and sweatpants

Specialty lake stuff

The following items might prove useful for getaways to the lake based on your plans. It’s also worth checking prior to hitting the road.

  • Fishing and boating licenses
  • Something to read
  • Swimming goggles
  • Wine key
  • Bait
  • Beach toys (buckets, shovels, football, frisbee, etc.)
  • Safety gear like life jackets
  • Fishing gear
  • Your tackle box
  • Rafts for the kids

Lake Safety Tips

Yes, being on the water can make for a memorable day, it’s important that you remember to keep safety top of mind. Following a few standard safety tips that should make sure that your whole group stays safe on the water.

  • Don’t swim alone
  • Keep your distance from wildlife
  • Avoid alcohol consumption before swimming, as it can impair judgment and result in drowning
  • Stay close to shore and avoid areas with shallow water or where the current is strong
  • Be aware of your surroundings and know where you are in relation to land
  • Regularly apply sunblock throughout the day – following the product’s instructions
  • Always wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking or paddle boarding

More Tips for a Lake Getaway in Lancaster

When you make a trip to the fabulous lakes near Lancaster, there are a few things that might make your itinerary much more rewarding. As an example, each individual lake near Lancaster is going to have unique features so it is important to think about what will make for an enjoyable trip as you plan yours.

  1. Maximize the best local resources. When there’s time for a lengthier stay, find local recreational areas, state parks, and campgrounds which give you the option to camp in a spot that is right on top of the water for a reasonable price.
  2. Do homework on the beaches. Depending on the time of year, sometimes the beaches near Lancaster might be packed with beachgoers. To find some more peace and quiet, research multiple nearby beaches and lakes to learn about how busy they are if you want a more relaxing vibe. If you want to be where the party’s at, then look for the biggest, most popular beach!
  3. Rent a boat. It’s common that lakes will have 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 day of watersports. Asking a local can typically allow you to locate a marina that has what you need.