Memphis Lakes

Lakes Around Memphis

When the weather is right you just need to spend some time near the water. A stay at a lake can be perfect for those who love wildlife too, because they offer opportunities to take in the local scenery and all that nature has to offer.

It doesn’t matter if you’re seeking to float in a tube with a book, get active with water skiing, go for a swim, or just lounge at the beach, the lakes near Memphis provide you with numerous opportunities for aquatic adventures. Has there ever been a better time? Pack up the car with sunscreen and a cooler then make the trip this weekend to find a brand new number one location on a lake!

Lakes Close to Memphis

Lake Activities

When you visit a lake near Memphis there are many activities that can be enjoyed by families, couples, or with a group of friends. You could go for an exciting day trip or take a longer vacation at a hotel on the beach to enjoy yourself more fully.

Any stay on or in the water gives you all the options from partying to restful bliss.

Go for a swim. Finding a swimming lake near Memphis will offer all kinds of fun and excitement 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 nice swimming area and a sandy beach to spread out on prior to packing the car and the family! You know as well as we do that a swimming pool just isn’t as much fun as a magnificent public beach!

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 drifting behind a trolling motor or tossing a line in from the dock.

Picnic time. Memphis’s lakes offer a wealth of excellent picnic areas partake in the enjoyment of your favorite tasty treats, or just a couple of sandwiches to enjoy as you enjoy the view. Should you be with someone you want to impress, a picnic on the beach should put a smile on their face.

Preparing for a Day on the Lake

A day at the lake can be very different depending on the lake you’re heading to, what the weather is going to be, what your goals are for the getaway. For your benefit, we took the time to make a list for some ideas for your next trip to a lake near Memphis so everything goes smoothly!

Lake basics

When you’re out on a lake near Memphis you will likely need to bring along many of these things to make sure you’re safe, healthy, and enjoying your time.

  • Tennis shoes
  • Food and snacks
  • A cooler with water
  • Cords and a charger for portable devices
  • Eye protection, a hat, or both
  • Towels and dry clothes
  • UV protection
  • Sweatpants and sweatshirt
  • Insect repellant
  • Garbage bags

Additional lake items

The following items might prove useful for excursions to the lake considering your itinerary. You may want to double check for some of these so you’re not missing something critical.

  • Baby gear (if necessary)
  • Games for the beach
  • Fishing and boating licenses
  • Something to clean up with like sanitizers or wet wipes
  • Fishing poles
  • Tackle box and lures
  • Something to read
  • Corkscrew
  • Worms or other bait
  • Swimming goggles

Lake Safety Tips

While the water can provide fun during a day on the lake, safety should be top of mind. These safety tips should make sure that your whole group stays safe at your favorite Memphis lake.

  • Avoid drinking alcohol while boating
  • Have an escape plan for what to do if you get stuck on a boat that capsizes or tips over
  • Make sure no one swims alone
  • Regularly apply sunblock throughout the day – following the product’s instructions
  • Stay close to shore and avoid areas with shallow water or where the current is strong
  • Make sure children have swimmies or other approved flotation devices
  • Always wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking or paddle boarding

More Memphis Lake Tips

Some people may not get the opportunity to make their way to the amazing lakes around Memphis and likely have a few questions regarding planning. Clearly, any body of water is going to have unique qualities and surroundings, but you should keep in mind a few things to look into when making plans which could help put together a trip your whole family will remember.

  1. Make the most of the best local resources. When you have time for a lengthier trip, find local state parks and recreation areas which give you the option to stay right on the water without breaking the bank.
  2. Do homework on the beaches. Early, mid, or late season, occasionally the beaches near Memphis can get exceptionally crowded. To find a little more privacy, do some digging on 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, search out the busiest, most happening sandy party scene!
  3. Find a marina. 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 a day fishing on the lake or taking the kids out for some wakeboarding or tubing. Using a search engine will typically help you locate several places that can hook you up with the right vessel.